Storm Level Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

Layout: 80 degrees x 4" x 30 degrees

RG: 2.60"

Differential: .026"

M/b: n/a

Surface: 1000 grit sanded

Core shape: Symmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: The Level is the first ball in the new Lab Series. Each product in the Lab Series represents countless hours of experimentation, refinement, and the use of groundbreaking materials. The goal of the Lab Series is to explore chemistry and weight block paths never pursued before in order to give bowlers ball reaction that is completely different from anything seen in the industry. The Lab Series is not limited to a specific type of ball reaction. Some of the earliest and smoothest directions will be explored in the Lab Series as well as some of the latest and most angular paths. Bowlers will find the Lab Series is for those who understand that excellence has no ceiling, who recognize that true innovation comes at a premium. These products are created without compromise, designed for bowlers who demand the absolute top of performance.

Storm has introduced the Level as a high-performance price-point that slides in between urethane and reactive performance. The intent with Level is to give bowlers the control features of a urethane type of ball reaction, while allowing oil absorption to occur, creating more consistent performance than traditional urethane options. The core in the Level is much higher in rg than your typical HP ball, while the differential is far lower as well. This combination gives the ball a slower response to friction while reducing track flare as well. That's why you see the uncommon 4" pin position for my Level in the picture. Knowing the differential was so much lower, I drilled this ball with a very strong pin position to ensure that it would flare some. With the 4" pin, I see around 1 1/2" of track flare with the Storm Level.

The 1000 grit shell is placed on the Level to smooth the response to friction as well. When I took mine to the lane, I saw an extremely early grab in the front of the lane, with a very long/slow response to friction in mid-lane and backend. It definitely reminds you of a urethane-like reaction when you throw the Level. I've only been able to throw this piece at Olathe Lanes East so far, but it will definitely need less surface friction to be in play there. It's simply too early hooking on drier fronts to be useful. I didn't polish the Level to begin with, as I was concerned about losing all reaction with the lack of track flare. But it looks like I'll be giving that a try next.

Level is going to be optimal for a no-thumb or 2-hand player that can generate an extremely high revolution rate. It will also be in play for all styles on shorter lane patterns, or extremely flat tournament patters. I could definitely see this piece being in play for the early portion of a team event at the Open Championships, where you're simply trying to keep the ball from going sideways for the first 6-8 frames. Control, control, control is going to be the theme when you purchase a Level. If you're looking to control the lane and close down your angles, this ball will be in play for you. Do not expect it to go around the lane much unless you have a far higher revolution rate than most.

Level releases to the market on January 17th and will be available at TBG in both 14# and 15#. Stop in and see us for more info on this new Storm piece!