Expert: - 12/11/2008

Question
I am considering buying a new ball.  My current ball is a red and black 16lb. Ebonite Tornado.  I am 170 lbs, and throw the ball medium speed as a stroker, with a small amount of hook.  My driller recommended this ball to me as a good entry level ball, and I have had no complaints over the last year as I learned the game.  Sometimes the lanes we play on are heavily oiled and I get little if any hook; when they are drier, I have much more success with the Tornado.  I am considering getting another ball that will complement my arsenal and allow me to hook the ball better in heavier oil.  Any suggestions?

Answer
Hello,
Knowing you ball weight, general speed, and style helps. A little stronger core in an Ebonite product includes the Clash and Bash duos. But...

My concern would be your ball speed. Medium speed with a lesser rev rate would still characterize your game as speed dominant. Smooth surface on a fair amount of oil skids a bunch. The stronger flare potential of the Turquoise/Purple Clash would ad to your ball reaction, but the surface might need adjusting (eliminate the shine, rougher surface).

You could consider the Brunswick Avalanche, or the dull Storm Street Rod too. Both have good covers and effective cores. How much stronger the new ball needs to be is up to you. Layout and specific ball choice will help provide what you are looking for.

I'd need much more info to be more specific. Thanks for the question.