Storm Physix Blackout Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

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

RG: 2.52"

Differential: .054"

M/b: .016"

Surface: 2000 grit sanded

Core shape: Asymmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: The PhysiX Blackout combines a familiar legacy with refined, cutting-edge technology. Built for demanding conditions, its NeX Pearl Reactive coverstock is dialed in for high-viscosity environments, delivering a powerful connection between the ball and the lane. This design gives bowlers an impressive blend of control and grit. Part of the esteemed PhysiX lineage, the Blackout stands out as a bold, reliable choice for bowlers who prefer a ball that revs up and showcases dynamic flare potential.

I was really excited to drill the new Physix Blackout, as I had a lot of success with the original Physix and the Infinite Physix. Physix Blackout pairs that legendary core shape with a NeX Pearl Reactive cover. Physix Blackout is begging for a heavier oil condition, something we don't have much of around here. That's why you see the polished cover on the Physix in the image above. I also used my pin up layout to help create a little length in front of the lane. This is a layout that worked well on both of the previous Physix releases mentioned above.

Out of the box, Blackout is an extremely coarse finish that needs oil in the front of the lane to be useful. If I was still bowling at Sterling Bowl, or more frequently on lane conditions like you find at Greater Ozarks, USBC Open Championships, etc, I think the box surface may have been more useful for me. Bowling at Olathe Lanes East makes 2000 grit an option that doesn't exist. So, I added some Storm Reacta Shine to this piece to clean up the front of the lane. Physix Blackout has that fast mid-lane revving motion that the original Physix had.

The NeX Pearl Reactive cover keeps this ball online and gives the bowler a hard charging, but smoother response to friction than many of the balls in their lineup. This ball will be extremely useful for a Storm bowler that's finding their Phaze A.I. to be a little too much downlane motion. I have the Physix Blackout (with the polish applied) around 2-3 boards weaker than a box condition Phaze A.I. The Blackout will obviously out hook the Phaze A.I. in its 2000 grit box finish.

Physix Blackout should also be the asymmetric choice for Storm bowlers that have too much hand for an Ion Max. It's going to be milder and a little longer down the lane than Ion Max, while significantly out hooking an Ion Pro. Overall, this is just a solid benchmark piece that makes reading the lane extremely easy.

Physix Blackout is in stock now at TBG!