Hammer Pure Envy Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

Layout: 60 degrees x 5 1/2" x 40 degrees

RG: 2.55"

Differential: .055"

M/b: .017"

Surface: 2000 Grit Sanded

Core shape: Asymmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: Combining great features from different successful bowling balls to create even better new balls is exactly how Pure Envy was created. A lot of development goes into creating the next great Hammer ball, and with Hammer’s extensive catalog of successful cores and covers, the process is extensive but exciting. The goal with Pure Envy was to complement the performance of the Extreme Envy in oil and provide backend motion in a dull ball that reminds Hammer fans of the Effect. To accomplish this goal, we started with multiple core designs, and the clear winner from our testing was the original Launcher core. The Launcher core numbers are strong; the high differential and asymmetry help create the big overall motion. The cover options with Hammer’s additive packages are vast, but the new Cohesion additive combined with HK22 that was first seen in the Effect creates an unmatched ability for backend traction, and this, along with surface, gives Hammer fans a new big ball for oil. You will not want to hit the lanes without Pure Envy in your bag this bowling season.

As with almost all very dull, aggressive balls, I chose my pin up drilling on the Pure Envy to help get it down the lane. With my lower axis rotation, these balls can easily bog down in the front of the lane if I drill them too aggressive or with lower pin positions. Fortunately, I dialed this one in the right way for my game, and the matchup is extremely good on the lanes at Olathe Lanes East.

The first thing that stood out to me about Pure Envy was the aggressive, but continuous ball motion. This ball doesn't slow down much with the HK22 additive in the Cohesion reactive cover. Many times, these high asymmetric balls simply aren't useful on the drier conditions around here. That's not the case with Pure Envy. This one will be in play at a lot of the local houses because it does clear the front of the lane well for a 2000 grit sanded ball.

The higher differential core shape is on display in the late mid-lane. Pure Envy makes a very hard charging motion that is rounded and continuous off of the end of the pattern. I see Pure Envy in play for a wide range of styles because of this. It's also going to be excellent on anything from medium to heavier oil league conditions. It has the teeth and the core strength to hook on nearly anything.

I did take the surface up to 4000 grit at one point, but didn't care for that as much. I felt like it lost a little of the power built into the total package of the ball. I'll definitely be recommending keeping these at 2000 grit (or rougher).

Hammer's new Pure Envy is in stock in both 14# and 15# at TBG. Stop by any time to learn more!