Roto Grip Nuclear Cell Ball Review

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

RG: 2.52"

Differential: .056"

M/B: .018"

Surface: 1500 grit polished

Core shape: Asymmetric

Roto Grip is marketing their new Nuclear Cell as one of the most versatile core designs in bowling, paired with a new version of the e-Trax pearl cover system to provide excellent mid-lane traction for a polished coverstock. From what I've seen so far, they've nailed it with the Nuclear Cell launch.

I started with my standard pin down layout, shifting the mass bias near the vertical axis line. Of course we used to be required to use weight holes with layouts like this, but with the new 3/3/1 ounce rule in play on static weights, just about any layout is possible without needing a balance hole. I didn't match up well to the Roto Grip asymmetric balls in the last 2-3 seasons. Halo core motions for me were a bit stronger in the mid-lane while losing momentum in the backend. They've been outstanding for our customers, so clearly that's a bowler specific issue to me. I had the same thing with the No Rules series, so I've stayed away from Rotos when it comes to stronger core asymmetrics for a while. Nuclear Cell will be the ball that puts me back into play in their asymmetric lineup of equipment.

The core motion is where I really see the difference versus their previous entries to the market. Nuclear Cell offers plenty of revs off the hand with a medium 2.52" rg core system. At the 20-30 foot distance though you can really see the ball flare up and begin to change direction mechanically. I believe this creates more error room downlane since you can throw the ball with confidence, knowing that it won't overshoot the breakpoint. Once the Nuclear Cell begins to change direction, there's just no quit in this ball. The 1500 grit polished cover provides length in the front of the lane, while also a very noticeable change in direction from right to left (I'm right handed). Nuclear Cell changes direction very quickly, but again does it with some control in mind since the ball wants to rev so early in the front to mid-lane distance.

I haven't tried changing surfaces here since it has matched up so well at one of my league centers. I also have several duller asymmetric ball options right now that work well when they're a little slicker (see Physix and Prism Solid) to a lot slicker (see Intimidator and Redemption Solid). This one is going to be at home on medium oil lane conditions, and especially when there's dry boards to the outside of your target.

If you're looking for a "fun" ball - something you can open the lane up with and create big backend angles, take a look at the Nuclear Cell from Roto Grip. Based on what I've seen, this one should be around in the Roto Grip lineup for quite a while.