Bowler: Jeff Ussery
Date: August 9th, 2006
Coverstock: Big Bang Reactive Polished with Powerhouse Factory Finish
RG: 2.47"
Differential: .045"
Pin to PAP Distance: 4 1/8"
Preferred Spin Axis to PAP Distance: 7 1/4"
Balance Hole: None
Surface Preparation: Box Condition
What I Was Looking For in this Ball and Layout:
Looking for a ball to lazily arc going down the lane, I chose to layout this
Whirlwind in a simple "over the label" type of layout. I wanted the ball to get
through the front easily and just arc all the way down the lane.
What I Ended Up With in this Ball and Layout:
No surprises in the front end reaction of the Whirlwind. I've yet to see a lane
condition that I can't get this ball through the heads. As I found with the No
Limit, the Big Bang reactive coverstocks get through the heads easily and delay
transition for the middle and backend of the lane.
Here is where the key lies in the ball reaction I was hoping for. I wanted a
ball that reacted soft off of the end of the oil pattern. I used a more aggressive
pin position than normal in combination with an extremely long PSA location. By
moving the PSA so far away from my positive axis point, I've created an incredibly
smooth backend reaction in the Whirlwind. I also purposely chose a layout that
would not require a weight hole, as I didn't want to open up the flare rings too
much on this ball.
The Whirlwind performs exactly as I wanted and exactly as advertised. This is
a great reaction for most players to go to in league situations or in the middle
of longer format tournaments. The Whirlwind is one of those balls that I feel
I can go to when the lanes are tougher and I'm really not seeing my ball reaction
very well. In overall hook, the Whirlwind is certainly stronger than both of the
Black Ice balls I've reviewed. But it is also an obvious step down in total hook
from the One and Time series balls.
***Our ball reviews are developed from a wide variety of lane conditions, surfaces,
and environments. We are attempting to give you an idea of our overall experience
and findings from a ball. Remember that all bowlers are different in regards to
ball speed, revolutions, axis rotation, and axis tilt. Bowlers will see different
qualities from bowling balls based on these factors. Be sure to also take into
account the bowler's environment (lane surface, oil pattern, etc.) and their expectation
(hook, score, etc.) before drilling a new ball for anybody.
