The holiday season is here, and for bowlers, there’s no better gift than gear that elevates their game. On December 13th, Storm Bowling released a new addition to the Blackout line, alongside the Lightning Blackout and Virtual Energy Blackout — the Storm Physix Blackout. This sleek new black ball is already turning heads. Combining Storm’s innovative Atomic A.I. Core with the NeX Pearl Reactive coverstock, this ball is a powerhouse built for medium-to-heavy oil conditions. Thinking of treating yourself or surprising a fellow bowler? The Storm Physix Blackout might be the perfect option!
In this review, we’ll explore why the Storm Physix Blackout might be the perfect strike-making gift for the holidays—and a worthy addition to your bowling ball arsenal.
Short Storm Physix Blackout Review
Don't want to read a full Storm Physix Blackout review? Here is a short summary!
The Storm Physix Blackout is built for bowlers seeking consistent mid-lane control with a powerful backend motion. With its Atomic A.I. Core and NeX Pearl Reactive coverstock, this ball delivers a perfect balance of angularity and control. Its pearl reactive surface ensures versatility on a variety of lane conditions, making it a reliable option for both league and tournament play. Looking for an aggressive finish, yet, cotrollable motion on heavier oil patterns? The Storm Physix Blackout delivers in spades.
Key Specifications
Coverstock Type: Reactive Pearl
Coverstock Name: NeX Pearl
Core Type: Asymmetrical
Core Name:Atomic A.I.
Box Finnish: 2000 Grit Abralon
Best For: Heavy oil
RG: 2.47
Total Diff: 0.055
Int. Diff: 0.018
Definitions
Asymmetrical core - Asymmetric bowling ball deliver sharper, more angular motion when meeting friction.
Symmetrical core - Symmetric bowling balls produce a soft, controllable motion.
Radius of gyration (RG) - The higher RG, the more back-end motion a bowling ball will produce, as high RG ball skids more and tends to conserve more power for the further part of the lane.
Total Diff - the difference between low RG (X axis) and high RG (Y axis).
Intermediate Diff - only found in asymmetrical balls, as it is the difference between the high RG (Y axis) and intermediate RG (Z axis).
First Impressions of the Storm Physix Blackout Bowling Ball
The Storm Physix Blackout immediately stands out with its sleek, bold design and it smells pineapples! Jus tafter first shoths it was clear that the Atomic A.I. Core from such balls as Ion Pro, Summit and Summit Peak pairs seamlessly with the NeX Pearl Reactive coverstock, offering an early dig into the oil without loosing too much energy. And more energy in the back means better pin carry and more strikes!
Lane Performance
or this review, two testers—a speed-dominant one-hander and a rev-dominant two-hander—tested the Storm Physix Blackout on heavy, medium, and typical house shot (THS) patterns.
Storm Physix Blackout on Heavy Oil
The speed-dominant one-hander found the Storm Physix Blackout’s ability to dig into heavy oil very impressive. It provided excellent stability and mid-lane read, while retaining a smooth yet aggressive backend reaction. It was super easy to control the ball even though it hooks a lot. Any bowler having greater revs and enjoying the sweet fruits of big flare will enjoy this ball especially on challenging conditions with greater amounts of oil.
The rev-dominant two-hander highlighted the ball’s consistent backend motion, allowing him to play deeper lines where he usually stay straighter. Despite the higher oil volume, the Storm Physix Blackout was reading the mid-lane well, while retaining energy and delivering a strong and predictable finish at the pins.
Storm Physix Blackout on Medium Oil
Interestingly, the Storm Physix Blackout’s versatility shone through on medium oil. Both testers were surprised to find success playing similar angles with minimal adjustments as they did on heavy oil. The box finish offered excellent predictability, enabling confident and precise shot-making.
As the lanes transitioned and a surface adjustment became necessary, the Physix Blackout impressed once again. Its responsiveness to surface changes proved remarkable. Even with a 4000 grit Abralon finish, the ball performed exceptionally well when moving deeper and maintaining speed. This adaptability highlighted just how versatile and reliable this bowling ball is in varying conditions.
Storm Physix Blackout on Typical House Shot (THS)
On a typical house shot pattern, the Storm Physix Blackout impressed, particularly on fresh conditions. The box finish initially proved slightly aggressive, prompting testers to sand it to 3000 grit and adjust left of their usual starting points. These changes allowed the ball to navigate the oil effectively, maintaining smooth and consistent reactions. Testers highlighted that while using the Physix Blackout, they needed to move deeper and carefully manage speed more frequently compared to other balls. However, for those comfortable with a more angular shot shape, this ball proved capable of achieving high scores effortlessly.
Overall Impression of the Storm Physix Blackout Bowling Ball
The Storm Physix Blackout is a stellar addition to Storm’s lineup, offering unmatched control and power heavy and medium oil patterns. The Atomic A.I. Core and NeX Pearl Reactive coverstock combine to deliver exceptional mid-lane read, angular backend motion, and versatility for surface adjustments. If you’re looking for a ball that thrives in varying conditions and provides confidence in high-stakes situations, the Storm Physix Blackout is a must-have for your arsenal.
Detailed Evaluation of the Motiv Subzero Forge Bowling Ball
The Storm Physix Blackout truly impresses with its smart combination of Atomic A.I. core and NeX coverstock, creating a very unique and dependable performance on heavy oil, making it a top pick for bowlers looking for a hard worker in these conditions. Storm Physix Blackout is built to handle whatever the lanes throw at it. If you need an assymetrical bowling ball for heavy oil, the Storm Physix Blackout will give you the power, consistency, and control you need to stay on top of your game.
