Storm Omega Crux Ball Review

Layout: 45 degrees x 4 1/2" x 70 degrees

RG: 2.50"

Differential: .052"

Surface: 3000 grit sanded

Core shape: Asymmetric

What I wanted from this ball: I've recently drilled a new Storm Physix that has always offered outstanding ball motion on average house conditions, as well as some flatter tournament shots. I was hoping to see a little earlier read with the Omega Crux with more hook potential. I wasn't sure where it would come out compared to my DV8 Intimidator or Roto Grip UFO, but I wasn't too concerned about the comparison to those balls. My main goal was to get just one step above my Physix.

What I ended up with in this ball: I'm not sure I got there exactly. The Omega Crux offers lots of early friction with the GI-20 reactive cover sanded at 3000 grit. I haven't altered the surface yet, as I wanted to see what it would do at my two leagues this week. On my heavier oil house shot league, the Omega Crux was still a little earlier rolling and a touch flatter in the backend than I wanted. My suspicion is that a hit at on the 4000 pads would clean this ball up and improve the backend a bit. On my flatter sport shot league, the Omega Crux was very competitive offering mid-lane motion and control in the back. I don't think Crux Prime users will see the Omega Crux as early hooking as that Storm offering. This ball seems to be a little longer in the front of the lane than a Crux Prime, and offers more change in direction in the backend. But it's certainly earlier and more aggressive than Physix/Gravity Evolve/Pro Motion.

I went back to my standard layout in this one, and given the early rolling nature I wish I would have used my longer pin distance layout (see the UFO review). Sometimes that extra 3/4" of pin to pap distance is the difference in length and continuation versus smooth with control.

I'll be bowling the Greater Ozarks this weekend and will send out a full report on what I saw. I'm leaving the Omega Crux in the box condition for now in case they're extremely slick at Sunshine (team house). Last year we didn't see that much, but in the past there have been years where Sunshine has played extremely tight. Once I return I'll likely hit the Omega Crux with some 4000 to improve the length for my game.

Overall a good looking piece from Storm and one that we'll be recommending often at Total Bowling Gear. Come by the store to check this one out!