Post by: admin on December 31, 1969, 06:00:00 PM
- Color: Violet/Crimson/Sapphire All colors do vary somewhat from the picture shown.
- Coverstock: R3X Solid Reactive
- Weight Block: Origin
- Ball Finish: 4000-grit Abralon
- Flare Potential: 6†Plus (High)
- Fragrance: Mulberry
- RG: 16#-2.49, 15#-2.48, 14#-2.52
- RG Differential: 16#-.054, 15#-.057, 14#-.045
- Recommended Lane Condition: Heavy Oil
- Description: The Invasion features the next generation of advancement in core and coverstock technology. Our first goal was to develop a strong asymmetrical design different than any other. The concept was to create contours along the RG planes to ensure a stronger preferred spin axis. We did this by developing intersecting contoured bands from the X-axis along the Y and Z axes. These bands are developed at specific arcs to maximize RG and differential values along the planes. In turn, this translates into a quicker revving core with a more defined moment of inertia or breakpoint unlike any prior design found on the market.
The all new Origin core boasts a 2.48 RG value with .057 total differential and a .017 intermediate differential. Using C.A.T.S., we tested the Origin core up against the Shape Lock-HD core with same coverstock to see the differences, and we were amazed by the results. The Origin™ core started into the “hook†phase about 3 feet sooner and created a stronger entry angle to the pocket. Usually when we get the ball started into the “hook†phase sooner we see less entry angle to the pocket, but this core with the contoured bands along the RG planes definitely showed us something different.
The finishing touch to the Invasion is the R3X coverstock. This third generation of Reactor series coverstock has the highest Ra values ever produced by Storm products. Based on the USBC Ball Motion Study we know that higher Ra values produce more ball motion in the oil, and this coverstock is no exception. We saw a 9% increase in friction values in the oil and an increase of 5% down the lane over its predecessor R2X utilizing C.A.T.S. testing.
Post by: MR SOLO on January 22, 2010, 04:20:49 PM
Not often does a ball come out and you see immediate dividends, but you will with the Invasion. I drilled this one with my personal favorite layout, A 4 x 4 x 1 drilling from the Storm lightning strike PSA layout guide. This ball absolutely hooks. Wednesday @ league: first game: playing up ten because they were spotty I leave the ten pin and I miss it (sorry i stuck on the spare), then I go ten in a row, with a solid nine pin for a 277. I was able to overpower the lane conditions/opening them up for my team. We shot 1184 scratch (GREAT BOWLING TEAM ) Thursday @ league: first game I started out with the front five, I was able to get up under it and hook the lane, but they broke down really fast and I got lost. I wasn't prepared for that much friction that fast, but this is where the Invasion shows its versatility, I changed my hand position and was able to get the ball through the heads and it still hooked off the spot like I’d cranked it up. Shot 267 second game with the front eight. You’d think it would be hard to follow up on a ball like the Virtual Gravity (Read my VG review), but Storm gives you a boost of NOS in a bowling ball. The Invasion @ 4000 grit is more angular on the backend, and has a stronger ball motion in the oil than anything on the market. When the Invasion begins which side will you be on? Get one and strike like lightning. Go bowl up a STORM!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Solo Milbourne
Storm Amateur Staff Member
Bowlers Corner Pro Shop, Baltimore, MD.
www.stormbowling.com
Post by: SKIP on January 22, 2010, 07:13:48 PM
Post by: Storm Nation on January 26, 2010, 09:38:44 AM
I was very excited to put the holes in this ball and give it a test drive! I knew this would be something special, but I wasn't prepared for what I saw. We went with a 5x5x3 layout. With my slower speed I just touched it lightly with some xtra shine. We don't see as much oil in our area. My first three games with it on Monday were 267,289,280 for 836. I started in around 21-17 and only had to move 4 and 3 by the end of the set. This ball will give you tremendous midlane control and all of the motion on the backend that you need. It was amazing to watch it just charge straight through the pin deck with no deflection. Pins were kept low but I had some messengers just flying across the deck! For me, the Virtual Gravity gave me the stronger motion up the boards in oil. This ball allows me to play my favorite parts of the lane even in the heavier oil. What a ball!!!!!!!
Dan Bock
Storm Staff Member
Post by: oldschoollefty on January 27, 2010, 02:38:59 PM
First, the facts...
The Invasion was drilled 5 x 4 x 3 (5 inches pin to pap, 4 inches PSA to pap, 3 inch pin buffer). The pin is about .6 inches above the bridge. For me, a moderate to weaker drilling. The Reign of Fire was drilled 35 x 50 with a 4 inch pin (dual angle layout). The pin is about .5 inches above/left of the ring finger. For me, a stronger drilling.
Both balls were initially thrown on worn wood lanes, on a slightly broken down house shot and on a fresh Long and Winding Road Kegel sport shot. Both balls were used with box finish on the covers.
Both balls did pretty much as I expected on the house shot. The Invasion was a little cleaner through the heads than I expected though I was about 4 boards right of where I typically play in this center (27-28 board). The new R3X coverstock didn't disappoint as it really jumped off the dry boards aggressively and made a hard, angular move to the pocket. This is the best hook/set reaction I have ever seen from a Storm ball. To clarify, I don't mean the ball "rolled out" as some like to say, it still had a great, continuous roll into the 1-2 pocket. When I moved a few boards farther right to really get into the heavy oil in the middle of the lane, the ball still responded extremely well, not as angular, but still more aggressive than what I've seen before. Even the Virtual Gravity didn't handle the fallback this well. On the sport shot, the Invasion also performed better than expectations. I moved about 15 boards left from the house shot and just piped the ball up the 7 board. There was plenty of out of bounds as you would expect from a 2-1 ratio pattern but the Invasion still made a great move off the breakpoint and carried extremely well, especially on light hits. If I missed left, the 4000 grit cover had a hard time recovering but that was to be expected. (teaser alert: the Reign of Fire handled this problem well)
On the house shot, the Reign of Fire was a little too strong with its 1000 grit factory finish. I had to get so far right, I had a hard time getting the flat corners out since with my more limited axis rotation, I couldn't get the ball to corner quite enough. I think taking the cover up to 2000 or so with a light compound/polish might solve that. With the box finish, the ROF needs fresh, heavy head oil. Where this ball truly excelled was on the sport shot. I played it about 4 boards right of where I did with the Invasion and played up 11-12 board. WOW!!! This ball read in the midlane like a champ, made a great angular move off the breakpoint and took all 10 pins straight into the pit. Even better, when I opened up my shoulders and tried to miss two, three, even four boards left, the shell bailed me out and sent the ball in the direction of the pocket. For those bowling PBA leagues or looking forward to USBC nationals this year, this is a ball to add to your arsenal. It's always a plus to be able to open up the lane when the shot is that tight.
In conclusion, both of these balls represent improvement over previous releases. Simply put, think of the Invasion along the lines of the Virtual Gravity with a stronger cover and the Reign of Fire as a T-Road Solid with a stronger weight block.
Good luck to all, and thank you to Storm for two great new pieces.
Kurt Gengelbach
Storm PBA Regional Staff
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Change is inevitible...Resistance is futile
Storm clouds are on the horizon.
www.fastrackproshop.com
Post by: StormN3rik on January 27, 2010, 04:06:51 PM
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Erik Ramos
PBA Storm Regional Staff
Post by: iwonn92 on January 28, 2010, 05:13:33 PM
Ps One closing thought, To those who still may not believe just remember the last 3 balls of the year T-road Solid, Cell, Virtual Energy all where made by STORM how impressive is that? Good Luck and bowl up a Storm, let the Invasion begin
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Eric Forkel
5x PBA Champion
Storm Products Staff
Post by: GRstorm on January 29, 2010, 10:28:31 PM
Ball Weight: 15lbs
Pin: 3-4
Layout 1: 4 x 3 ½ x 1
The Invasion is more than what I thought it was going to be. It is a really strong ball. I threw a test ball at a open house where you can try storm bowling balls before you buy and when I threw it I was in shock on how strong it is midlane wise compared to the Virtual Gravity. I threw my Virtual Gravity and it goes much longer before it made a move down lane so I know when I need a ball to start earlier it is going to be the Invasion. The 4 x 3 ½ x 1 has the pin under the ring finger with the cg kicked out a little bit and mass bias about 1 ½ inches away from the thumb and no weight hole. I have it set up to where it will start up early and have a smoother arc motion in the backend but still finishes so its more controllable.
I bowled on a pattern called the Lexington pattern that was around 40 or 42 feet and the outsides were not really playable but with the Invasion I can play outside and it went longer but when it hit the dry down lane it took a right turn and 10 pins in the pit and. Once the outsides were burning up I just moved 5 boards right and play the same line.
I have a picture of my Invasion drilled in my photo album on myspace! If you have any questions about the Invasion email me at grichardson7716@aol.com.
Garrett Richardson
Storm Amateur Staff
Al Louie's Pinole/Diablo Valley Pro Shop
www.myspace.com/grstorm
www.stormbowling.com
Post by: tommygn on February 01, 2010, 03:50:14 PM
The new Origin core picked up on the lane at about the same time as the VG does. The biggest difference, is how much stronger it is in the backend! For my game, I use VG's to blend fresh patterns, as the cover and core combination tends to be a little smoother for me, and I then go to the Dimension, when I need more in the backend. The Invasion is like a combination of both of these balls. It picks up on the lane earlier than the Dimension (like the VG), but rolls very strong off the spot (like the Dimension) for a very impressive move to the pocket.
I have used this ball on a few different conditions. Bowling on DBA lane surface, house condition at 39 feet, this ball was a monster!! I needed to back my hand out of the ball, and let the core and cover do all of the work. The reaction was fun to watch, but very hard to control.
I used it again the next week, on the same pattern, but was able to keep my hand soft more consistently, and really liked the reaction of the ball. What I found was, I didn't have to move my feet as the lane went through transition. I was also testing my Reign of Fire(Rof) (I will post a review of that ball as well), and really noticed how much stronger the RoF was in the front part of the lane, and in the backend(box surface w/coat of Xtra shine), compared to the Invasion. The RoF was just stronger throughout the entire lane, until the backend started to tighten up a bit. I had to cut practice short, as I needed to work the shop in the afternoon. I went back to practice after closing the shop, and rolled a few more games. There was A LOT of bowling on the pair that I used (house balls galore). I started with the RoF and the lane hooked up front, and the backends were tight. The ball was lazy down lane, and I left a lot of seven pins, as well as a few 9 pins. I then decided to try the Invasion again, and I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT, I was able to stand at the exact same place I was standing in the morning. The other balls that I took with me, all needed to play different parts of the lane, or I had to change my release to get them to the pocket and carry, but the Invasion still rolled strong through all that carrydown. The only difference was, if I missed around the ball at the bottom, it still held pocket, when in the morning it would have crossed over. I couldn't believe that a ball this strong, was able to roll through an entire day of lane transition the way it did.
The next night, I bowled on Scorpion pattern in my PBAX league, on pro-anvilane. I had just got done bowling a tournament on very dry conditions, so I was rolling the ball really firm. I had a good look in practice with it, but started leaving 7 pins once we started to bowl. I decided to put it down, and go with a strong pin under ring Dimension, with a lot of surface, and X-hole down low. I really feel, if I was rolling the ball the way I normally do, this would have been the perfect piece for the night (I had to go practice at lunch today, to get myself back in check!!).
In closing, the Invasion will be in my bag any time I go to a tournament, or to bowl on the longer PBA patterns for league. Although very strong, the new R3X cover seems to be able to handle transition very well, and the core seems to take some of the inconsistences of lane to lane play out of the equation. Go see your local certified pro shop and ask them to help you start an Invasion!
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Tommy Gollick
Storm Regional/Pro Shop staff
Red Crown Pro Shop Harrisburg, PA
stormbowling.com
Post by: jbuzz31 on February 03, 2010, 10:36:35 PM
Ball :15 Lb 2-3"pin
Surface: OOB
Drill: 4.5x3 w/2" buffer
House: 39' THS synthetics
The thing i have to say first and foremost about this ball is the hit/carry. It is simply rediculous. It evensounds sicking. I have never seen a ball drive through the pin deck like this. I would liken the sound/sight to a charging rabid rhinocerous.
All joking aside this ball means business. It is fairly clean through the fronts starts picking up in the mids and has quite the authorive punch on the backend. Now it is not skid snap by any means, but it does move on the back.
Interesting side note: This ball flares ALOT. I don't get much track flare. Even my brunswick Siege which is drilled fairly similar and has similar core #s i only get about 3" max of flare. With the Invasion I am seeing 5+ inches of flare. After I threw it the first two times, I took it back to the driller to have him open the thumb just a smidge , he looked at the flare and commented "you did WHAT?".
In closing a warning. This ball will probably not last longer than the first game on most THS. Listen to the ball. It will tell you ,quick, fast and in a hurry when it is time to be put away.
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Ive Eaten From The Insane Root That Imprisons Reason
Post by: Kendo on February 04, 2010, 08:38:22 PM
Post by: elvismat on February 07, 2010, 06:14:44 PM
Thanks Storm, ball is already paid for!
Post by: Gunnz on February 08, 2010, 07:14:15 PM
After buying everybodies used balls I finally decided to purchase my first brand new ball in three years, I decided on purchasing the new Storm Invasion. After discussing with my proshop guy on how to drill it, we went with a pin above the bridge stacked leverage drilling with the MB 2" left of my thumb (I am a lefty). WOw! Unbelievable! This ball without a doubt is the biggest hooking ball I have ever had to date. Threw it 2 games right out of the box and realized that a needed to put some shine on this lil sucker. Stuck it in the polisher for about 2 minutes and shot league at 300 Bowl in Waterford on the Tuesday Night Shootout League. Had a bit of a carry issue the first game left about 7 stone 7pins for a 186. Was plying 3rd arrow out to about the 5board at my breakpoint. Moved 2 boards right with my feet to not hit so "heavy" in the pocket and this lil gem came alive. The ball just flat out throws the pins around! went 236 229 for a 651 to end the night. Might have been a little better had I not pulled a few shots but overall I am very happy with the Invasion. Cant wait to throw it a few more times to get used the ball (still think I have to mess around with the surface a little more) and see how it really comes alive. This is the weakest layout I have ever had on a ball but it is the most aggressive ball I have ever thrown! Hate to see how much it would have hooked had I Drilled it up a little stronger. Hope to post more on this wonderful new ball from Storm. Thanks
Post by: wldthng047 on February 10, 2010, 08:35:19 PM
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Right Handed
Power Stroker (400+ revs)
18-19 MPH
Post by: Timdog on February 12, 2010, 04:37:37 PM
16lb ball.
stroker.
medium rev rate.
Post by: Timdog on February 20, 2010, 03:21:40 PM
Post by: STORM CHASER on March 02, 2010, 01:40:12 PM
When you think of “Stormâ€, The Bowlers Company you think of excellence and a standard that other companies strive to reach as “Storm†is always a leader of the industry.
The Research and Development department of “Stormâ€, once again made themselves atop the industry with the latest addition of the “Invasionâ€.
The “Invasion†starts sooner in the oil and has a stronger midlane reaction than “Virtual Gravityâ€. For me it was six to eight boards†and carry down was no problem.
I used a 4x4 drilling with a ½ inch pin buffer on a 15lb 4oz ball with 3.5oz top weight and a pin of 3 to 3 ½ inches.
Keeping the “Invasion†with its 4000 grit box finish and my ball speed at 13 to 17 mph it’s easy to say that this ball is a monster and an early candidate for “Ball of the Yearâ€
I have used the “Invasion†on a 39’ blended house pattern on synthetics, a 42’ pattern THS and a 44’ THS pattern with some carry down on guardian / wood surface.
Thank you “Storm†once again.
Mark Weiss
Storm Regional Staff member
Post by: Tom Hess on March 02, 2010, 04:38:57 PM
The first Invasion is drilled 5 x 65 x 35. The surface was left OOB. This layout places the pin above my ring and mb next to my thumb. The Invasion with this layout reads the lane 2'-3' sooner than my Virtual Gravity (with a similar layout) with around 5 more boards total hook than the VG. The Invasion has a strong ball roll and great carry.
The second Invasion is drilled 5 x 45 x 45 with a hole 4" from grip center through the cg. The surface on this ball was altered lightly by hand with an abralon pad to 2000. This layout places the pin below my ring finger and the hole down. This is the strongest ball I have ever thrown. This Invasion is earlier at the breakpoint due to the surface change, but more continuous than the first. This Invasion out hooks the first one by 4-5 total boards. Will be the first ball out of my bag on longer and heavier patterns.
The third Invasion is drilled 5 1/4 x 75 x 20. The surfaced was polished. This layout places the pin about 2" above my ring finger and the mb above my thumb. The layout and surface change are to try and make this Invasion read the friction quickly and then roll forward through the pins. I like to use this ball when a hook/stop reaction is desired. I chose an Invasion due to the large core to help with carry. I got just what I was looking for out of this Invasion. I'm able to play the middle of the lane with a quick read off the end of the pattern and great carry.
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Tom Hess
Storm Regional Staff
Vise Staff
Etonic Staff
Post by: bowlerfromwyo on March 10, 2010, 02:40:43 AM
40x45 3.5 pin to pap and the mb is about 4.5 to pap/ puts the pin up an inch and just outside my ring.
I left it at box surface to give it a shot and from what i have seen, on a house shot thats around 39 on older mendes surfaces, that this ball allows you to start the ball inside and feed it to the friction without any type of burnup or over under. I bowled both fresh and 2nd shift with this ball all 6 games and it allowed me to get in the puddle on the 2nd shift and just keep pushing it towards the dry with great recovery and continuation. The reaction shape for me was just a smooth arc with a ball that never stopped hooking. I think this ball will give me a similar reaction shape on a wide variety of conditions and cannot wait to give it a shot on some sport patterns. Im thinking that anyone out there could use a reaction like that in their bag and would recommend it for any game.
Thanks Storm for another great ball
Eddie Lallak
Storm Amateur staff
Post by: Straight Ball on March 19, 2010, 12:05:43 PM
Just a quick note, i have been using Storm/Roto-Grip equipment only since 1994.
I am a right handed player, high track & low rev stroker. The Invasion i left OOB finish, drilled 4 x 4, with a balance hole, pin just to the right & slightly above my ring finger. I used it for the 1st time on 3/13-3/14 during the Green Mountain Open, Rutland, Vermont. The ball does need oil & it really hooks! For my 1st 3 game set (5 person team event), the condition was broken down a bit & i had games of 190-198-217. Next 3 game set was on a fresher condition & this ball did not disappoint! Games of 258-223-227 (no splits).
My average for the 9 games was 214, using only this ball. My league scores, the week of 3/14, using the Invasion: 234-223-206=663 (flat 43' pattern)-269-279-278-(825)-258=1084 (2nd shift wood)-236-247-216-300!=999 (2nd shift, synthetic, moderate oil). For strokers, like myself, & with fresh or tournament condition, it's a great ball! I highly recommend this ball. The Invasion keeps the pins low & really hooks!
I have a pic of the drilling on my web page.
http://www.richmanzerjrbowling.com
Rich Manzer Jr.
USBC Level 1 Instructor
Post by: tommygn on March 22, 2010, 11:44:44 AM
What I wanted out of this drilling, is a ball for the fresh shark pattern. On the shark, I need to use surface, while still allowing the ball to have a good change of direction down lane. This drilling does that for me. By locating the mb in the strong position, I also get a good amount of flare out of this drilling. This is a plus when bowling on a long pattern.
I used the ball for a couple of weeks now, and really like what I see. The first chance I had to use it, was on Scorpion. I was able to play up the boards with the fresh surface, but started to see a little too much push, once the cover started to get some lane shine on it. The high volume of the pattern, combined with the length, allowed for my other Invasion to give me a more consistent, smoother read of the break point.
Next, I was able to use the Invasion, as well as the VG on a fresh 39 foot house pattern (DBA surface). I had to move in on the lane, and look 18-19 at the arrows out to 7-8 at the end of the pattern. I was very surprised at how well the ball read the pattern, as normally a ball with this high of a pin for me, just pushes too far, and then I get a very erratic ball motion down lane. The Invasion would push through the front (even with all of the surface), and give me a controlled hard arch motion into the pocket. When I switched to the VG, I had to move 1 board left, and keep the ball straighter through the front (less surface prep), and have more of a flip into the pocket. This is good for when the lanes break down a little, but not so much on fresh, higher volumes of oil. I was very surprised at how well the Invasion rolled on an over walled house shot with this drilling! The Invasion gave me miss in, and still make the corner, as well as miss out, without over reaction.
I have yet to have the chance to use it on Shark, but as soon as I do, I will up date my review.
So far, everything I am seeing out of the R3X cover, is consistent ball motion. I have been able to stay with the Invasions longer than other balls that I have in the bag. I also see more pattern usage with the Invasion as well. I have been able to use the Invasion on Cheetah, Scorpion, Shark(the first Invasion I drilled) and Viper, and a variety of different lane surfaces. When bowling on todays sport patterns, you need hook AND control. I feel the Invasion is the perfect combination of both.
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Tommy Gollick
Storm Regional/Pro Shop staff
Red Crown Pro Shop Harrisburg, PA
stormbowling.com
Post by: LABRat on March 22, 2010, 06:42:55 PM
Bowler: See profile for specs
Ball: 15#, 4" inch pin, out of box finish
Layout: 5" pin to pap (well above ring finger), 2" buffer to VAL, MB 3" from pap
Balance hole: none
As much as I liked my Virtual Gravity I ended up using it just long enough to break down a pair then switch to the Virtual Energy most of the time. The reason I like the VE so much is the stronger backend. I don't have "the hand" to get the high entry angle that scores so well on a THS unless I've got the right ball and up to this point that ball has been the VE on the medium patterns and either the Reign or the Fast on the drier conditions...nothing for the wetter conditions.
After using the Invasion for several weeks now I know I've got something in the bag that will work better for me when the lanes are playing a bit wetter than usual...and something that I can more easily move in with as the track gets worn.
The strong back-end of the Reign and the Fast reminded me of how I felt the first time I threw a reactive resin ball about 15 years ago...skid, skid, skid, skid, skid, flip! With today's heavier oils (much heavier than 15 years ago) I haven't seen that look in a while on a fresh pattern. It was usually skid, skid, skid, skid, skid, hook a little. Now with the Invasion I have skid, skid, skid, FLIP, STRIKE!!!
I'm basically echoing Erik Forkel's earlier review...great ball!
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Storm Amateur Staff, Central Texas
Click here to read about The LAB pro shop (http://"http://www.melslonestarlanes.com/proshop/proshop.php")
Read more about bowling up a Storm here! (http://"http://www.stormbowling.com")
Post by: DanielM13 on April 01, 2010, 07:07:04 PM
Daniel Mareina
Storm Staff Member
Bowling Center Manager/Pro Shop Operator/Bowling Coach
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Daniel Mareina
Storm Staff Member
Post by: Bigmike on April 26, 2010, 11:21:30 AM
Lay Out: 5.25" from PAP at 75* PAP angle and 40* VAL angle. Dual angle measurement would be 75/5.25/40. The pin ended up above my bridge. I added a weight hole down on gradient line P4. Out of the box this layout was very tight flaring and I wanted it to open up a little more.
Surface: I hit it lightly with a 4000 abr, then used the Surface Factory at the Storm/RG USBC booth to knock it down to 2000abr.
Purpose: I wanted to have a strong ball for longer patterns and higher volumes.
Lane Condition observations: I have thrown it on our house shot and also thrown it at USBC Nationals along with the Ohio state tournament at the D/S house (Stonehedge in Akron). On our house shot, it was very smooth and a little slow off the spot so I added the P4 hole which is down in the thumb/side quadrant. It separated the flares more, but the ball was using up too much energy trying to get back to the pocket. At USBC's, it was too much ball and I had a hard time getting it off the headpin playing at them. I moved in some and this one labored and I had better options with me so I bagged it. USBC's for me this year were strong on the back end and we bowled the low end of the stadium which historically has hooked more than the high end. I hit the Surface Factory up before we left just to try it with a uniform 2000 abr surface on it. Our second shift league is now on the fresh since the league in fron of us finished up and the center has finally rediscovered what the oil button is. The Invasion was money as I threw it during both sets all three games moving across the lane with it. At the Ohio states, it was too much ball during the team event which was on older wood. At the S/D house on older Anvillanes with newer pro anvilane heads, this ball was unreal. Once I got it out and went to a roll-up-the-back release and a little more straighter up the lane, I had the world from about 13-7 and went 177 over for the 5 games I threw it on a sport pattern!
Final Thoughts: I will be completely honest on this one, I was expecting the big motion that the Virtual Gravity gave me right out of the box. This one was more slower off the spot and controllable for me. I was debating plugging it and trying a stronger layout since when I drilled it up I was worried that a strong drilling out of the chute was going to make this ball a once in a while ball. I almost left this one at home when packing for USBC's. Since I put this ball in the Surface Factory at USBC's, this ball has been a beast and hard for me not to start out with. Now I am debating drilling a second one up with a slight tweak to get a little more stronger layout to compliment this one and possibly another to put a shine on the get an even stronger motion at the spot from.
Additional thoughts: I have read some of the comments on the message board about this ball being a dud. I would hope that the folks doing the commenting have made some adjustments with surface and/or layout before making that declaration. I was a skeptic also, but a surface change has made an entire different outlook regarding this ball. The coverstock is very strong, probably too strong for the volume of oil that many centers put out in todays game.
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"Why don''t you call me sometime.....when you have no class" ~~Rodney Dangerfield to Sally Kellerman, his college professor in Back to School ~~1986
Mike Craig - Storm Products Pro Shop staff -Columbus, OH
Post by: Reconditioned Bowler on April 29, 2010, 04:21:50 PM
The Invasion blends the over/under and can be drilled for hard direction change, or a gradual arcing pattern into the pocket. It offers recovery for bowlers who miss slightly, but will exaggerate the bowlers mistake when pulled. An open hand at the bottom of one's swing, allowing the ball to read the lane offers that directional change to the pocket with high power and an explosive finish.
If purchasing this ball, make sure the driller gets your PAP and sees you throw something before you decide to drill. Make sure you take advantage of this ball's ability to really store energy and impact the pocket with authority. By far, a great ball for bowlers who are aggressive on the lanes.
Post by: Southern_Info on May 25, 2010, 10:57:43 AM
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2010 is the first time joining a league since 1999. Over a 10 year lay off and haven''t lost much of my game. This year currently HG-279, HS-733.
Post by: STORM CHASER on June 02, 2010, 02:37:45 PM
After discussing my previous drilling and ball reaction on my other Invasion with Storm's Mr. Ernest Goedicke I told his suggestions of the following and I have even more success.
The first is a 4x4 x 3 1/2 with a 2 to 3 in pin. Using an Invasion of 15.4 lbs and having a top weight 2.74. This set up put the pin under the ring finger and it weighed out with 1/2 in the thumb and 5/8 side.
This ball was awesome. Strong midlane reads and a destroying finish.
The other suggestion was a 5x5x4 drilling with a very light polish. Using a 15.4 lb Invasion with a top weight of 2.92 top weight and a 3 to 3 1/2 pin.
This drilling has been great when the lanes have started to dry up. Moving a couple boards to the right and watch it pound the pins. This drilling left the pin under the middle finger with 3/4 in the thumb and 1/2 in the side.
Used both a blended 41' house pattern.
Storm keeps ahead of the industry with the best designs, equipment and most of all its employees.
Thank you for your efforts.
Mark Weiss
Regional Staff member
Post by: Activator on June 02, 2010, 10:53:28 PM
Layout: Pin in middle finger 6" from pap mb below thumb(x hole 2" below pap)
Test pattern: Scorpion and THS
I wasnt sure what to expect with this layout on the invasion, but what i hoped for was a controlled reaction...which is what i got especially when i added the extra hole. This ball works well on medium length and medium volume patterns...anything too long or heavy and its not quite enough. This ball is very clean thru the front of the lane and has a strong mid lane read which is what i was hoping for. Bowlers with high rev rates or slow speeds will need to alter surface or consider different drilling options when considering this piece of equipment, however the ball does serve its purpose very well! Thank you Storm!
Scot Archabal
www.viseinserts.com
www.proamsports.biz
www.stormbowling.com
Post by: RH1818 on June 08, 2010, 01:09:30 PM
Mass bias is 1/2 from VAL. Weight hole is below axis on Val.
2000 Abralon.
I used it at USBC in the team event playing straight. Had 750. Itgot down the lane pretty clean and stored good energy. Ball is very versatile. I also used it a lot of the time at the U S Open playing in around 20 where I was plus a 100 in qualifying.
Post by: Mike Austin on June 15, 2010, 04:49:42 AM
My PAP is 4 9/16 over and 3/4 up. I used a ball with a 3" pin out and 3 1/4 top weight before drilling. I drilled the ball with the pin 5 inches from PAP with the MB strong, or in about a 75 degree position. MB is about 2 inches right of my thumb hole. Pin is under and just left of my middle finger. I used a low extra hole, 1" by 2 1/2 deep. The statics ended up about zero/zero with 7/8 top weight after drilling.
I shined this ball out of the box with Storm #2 Polish, which is very gritty and leaves some texture to a shiny ball. I have a Virtual Gravity at box and a Furious box with very little games on it, so I didn't need/want another snow tire. I wanted a little more versatility, and with my medium speed, a little shine works well on strong, solid balls.
This is quickly becoming my favorite layout. As this is a very strong ball, I wanted it for fresh and oily lanes. I've used it on PBA Shark in a regional in Houston, fresh house shots in a few different centers, and the PBA World Championship pattern during practice.
The Invasion gets good length on the fresh, but struggles to get down the lane when the shot starts to go away. I just have to keep moving left to keep the ball in the oil in the front. The ball is very smooth/even off the end of the pattern, almost too lazy on a house shot. I'm able to create more area with other balls on the THS. It worked great on the Shark, as I was able to start left of 4th arrow and keep a tighter line left of third arrow to the pocket. It was strong enough to give me some area right and smooth enough to hold on tight shots missed a little left. I had a good shot on the World Championship pattern playing outside 5 (older AMF Synthetics) with less hand, I could bump the gutter and get some hold around 5 when I was clean off my hand.
This ball hits really well, seems to carry light hits really well. It carried high hits well on the Shark pattern. I seemed to ring a few 10 pins when I missed right on the house patterns as the ball did not jerk in the track area, and seemed to be lazy off the spot in the drier track area. (Not necessarily a bad thing) The ball worked best on the house pattern when I played it a little left of where I thought I should be, gaining some hold, and like I said, ring 10 on misses right, snappier balls would probably go high on the same condition.
This ball sure seems like a winner from Storm. Fairly versatile, needing oil. Straight players could probably use this ball on mediums with some polish. The boomers will probably want a pin up drill to get some extra length. Compared to the Virtual Gravity, this ball has a similar rolly feel to it, but much cleaner up front, and a more defined break point down lane. Total hook is about the same. The Virtual hooks more on fresh soup as the shiny Invasion is just too long. The Virtual is not really usable on the THS as it is really early, rolly, and does not have much recovery down lane, even with it's pin up drill. These two compliment each other pretty well for me. The Furious hooks only about a board or two more than the VG, but the hook is more down lane, more back end. On the Shark, the Furious hooked about 4 and 2 more than the Invasion, but was a little more critical to make a good shot as it read the dry in the front even faster. I like all three balls, they are all different from each other. I think I would like to try another Invasion with a pin up drill and no hole, I think this could be an awesome THS ball if there is some volume.
Sorry so long, hope this helps ya!!
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Me, a couple balls, two lanes, all that is right with the world. Bowling is my haven!
Post by: Jon21221 on August 27, 2010, 08:26:09 AM
Post by: csbowler630 on September 22, 2010, 12:51:20 PM
Post by: wam10 on September 22, 2010, 02:29:26 PM
Post by: rstriker on October 03, 2010, 10:40:03 PM
I would strongly recommend this ball to anyone with a medium to high rev rate who is looking for a fairly aggressive ball.
Rob Raymond
Novi, Michigan
Post by: catdog23 on October 05, 2010, 09:09:59 PM
Post by: browncow7 on October 05, 2010, 09:45:20 PM
Post by: Mitch Rev Robinson on October 06, 2010, 05:52:48 AM
Average: 215
Rev: 450-500
Style: Cranker
Speed: 30-35kph
Right Handed.
Ok, Here's the deal.
Buy this ball.
Don't argue with me.
If you want to take your game to the next level.
This is the ball for you.
If you want something that works on everything.
This is it.
If your consistant, Versatile.
This is it.
This is what you have been Looking for.
--------------------
Pro''s Don''t Talk Sh*t.
Post by: UTbowler2010 on October 11, 2010, 08:19:35 PM
Post by: Ehudakineyah on October 15, 2010, 09:07:10 AM
Average: 219
Style: 2 Handed/Right
Ball Speed: 21-22 Mph
RPM: 600-650
Layout: 1. 60 x 4" x 50 (Polished)
2. 45 x 4" x 45 (Box Finish)
3. 55 x 5" x 35 (Box Finish)
Shots Thrown On:
Route 66
Route 66 (Shortened)
Sunset Strip
Sunset Strip (Shortened)
2010 Championship Pattern
Earl Anthony
Shark
Highway to Hell
Boardwalk
Broadway
Might be a little confusing, but yes... Posted 3 different layouts for 3 different Invasions that i have.
Great Bowling ball by Storm. Hits Hard and doesnt dissapoint.
When i got my first Invasion i wanted it to go long. Needed a bowling ball for sport shots down here in hawaii. Something that wouldnt check up early on the lanes, smooth, and carried enough power to the pins. The long layout on the first one was exactly what i needed.
Second Invasion was for when the shot changed, and to have another invasion. Down here in Hawaii, the house i bowl at changes the shot every 2 weeks to keep it challenging and competitive. Wanted another invasion to be smooth, be a little more snappy in the backend, and to have another area to play when the shot breaks down or if i have to bowl at another house.
Did what it was supposed to do. Hit Hard, Had Great Carry, and the reason why i have another one.
The Third Invasion was to just go all out on it. Make it turn like crazy for me and have a really ridiculous backend and turn. And it didnt dissapoint at all. Did what it was supposed to do.
The Invasion is a very versatile ball. And a must have for anyones arsenal. Especially for Storm Fanatics.
Rating: 9.75/10
Great ball "Storm". Keep up the Good Work.
-Keene Inafuku
Post by: garymcginnis on October 26, 2010, 01:28:53 AM
House Average: 208
Sport Average: 175-185
Style: Tweener I guess
Ball Speed: 20-22 Mph
Layout: Not sure on actual coordinates but the proshop said they put a strong but predictable layout with the "out-of the box" finish.
Shots Thrown On:
-THS
-Some type of special sport shot for a collegiate tournament (39 feet/medium oil)
As you can tell from the above descriptions, I'm not the most versed on the ball lingo but I was provided this ball as part of a college sponsorship by Storm about 2 weeks ago. I've never played Storm before (other then a cheap used ball once) but have no issues with trying new things. From what I've seen so far during the eight or so games I've used it, there is a lot of potential with this ball. With its current layout/finish its very predictable and has a smooth back end. Best of all, so far it seems to carry a lot of the usual stone 8/9s I somehow like to leave on occasions. With a little more work on my end plus a bit more knowledge on ball lingo, I can easily see this ball work from outside in for at least 3 games prior to having to make a change.
With the limited time to date, I'm impressed with what I've seen so far.
Rating: 8/10
Gary McGinnis
Post by: jhudson on October 26, 2010, 01:03:40 PM
Ball Speed: Medium
Drill Pattern: Not sure
Pin Placement: Pin down
Lane Condition: 39 Ft medium oil sport shot. Flat on the outsides with less oil in the middle
I haven't really got the chance to bowl much with this ball. I bowled in one collegiate tournament so far with it but I didn't start out with this ball. I started playing up 5 with my Prodigy since it is a little weaker than the Invasion and after a couple games I had to move in and that is when I switched to my invasion. I slid about 20 at the line threw 12 at the arrows and my breakpoint was around 8-10 and this played very nice for me. It rolled heavy but had nice backend to it and hit hard. I like to play straighter but this ball gives me the confidence to move in a little and not worry about washouts. I don't have a ton of revs on my ball and this ball still hooks a lot for me. I'm definitely glad that I purchased this ball.
Post by: wldthng047 on January 11, 2011, 08:44:17 AM
BALL SPECS
Pin Length: 4"
Starting Top Weight: 2.5oz
Ball Weight: 15# 4 oz
DRILL PATTERN
Pin to PAP: 5"
CG to PAP:
X Hole (if there is one): on PAP
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: 450
Ball Speed: 18mph
PAP/Track:
SURFACE PREP
Grit: 4000
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): Polish
LANE CONDITION
Length:40'
Volume: medium
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
BALL REACTION
Length:
Back End: Stong and Continuous
Overall Hook: Less than OOB
Midlane Read: Strong
Breakpoint Shape: Stong Arch
COMMENTS
Likes: pushes through the heads much easier than my OOB Pin UP Invasion. Still reads the lane well, and recovers nicely as long as the ball is given a chance.
Dislikes: Even with a relatively weak drill, the core seems to want to get teh ball rolling earlier than i would like on some patterns. A small complaint, as its doing what its intended to do :)
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Right Handed
Power Stroker (400+ revs)
18-19 MPH
Post by: bulldogg1677 on January 16, 2011, 01:44:57 PM
LANE CONDITION
Length:42
Volume:Heavy
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
THS
COMMENTS
Likes: Great reaction from mid lane to breakpoint. I love that you don't have to put alot of revs on this ball to get it to react.
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Post by: ragu74 on January 29, 2011, 09:17:21 PM
LANE CONDITION
Length:40ft.
Volume:Medium
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS
COMMENTS
The layout is pin above bridge, cg kicked a bit to the right, and mb to the right off thumb in strong position.
The ball is 4000 ab.
Likes:The ball is clean through the front and reads the midlane good with a strong continuation in the backend. This ball is very agressive and needs oil to perform. This is the most agressive ball I have in my arsenal. This ball reminds me of the VG in perfomance, just a tad bit stronger. I've been able to control the Invasion better than the VG I had. Mainly because of the tamer layout on the Invasion..
Dislikes: dry (Use when there is enough oil. If not enough oil put back in bag).
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Post by: joerevs300 on February 26, 2011, 02:32:55 PM
LANE CONDITION
Length: 40
Volume: 10:1
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
Likes: Controllable, great carry percentage, stable rotation
Dislikes: Not a dry lane ball by a long shot
I bought this ball near the end of last season, and it was the first Storm I had owned brand new since the X-Factor Ace. I had loved the Ace but it had reached the end of its usefulness.
And well, the results speak for themselves. This ball is a monster on a THS condition. Easy controlled reaction, and a powerhouse when it hits the pocket. I've carried more 10's with this ball then any other but, more than that, it reacts really well when you make adjustments.
This season, I'm averaging 235 which as of Thursday is good enough for a T-5 in high average for the state of TX (for those leagues that post on LeagueSecretary.com). I've shot 3 sets above 750 including a 780, and a 290 in December. Most of the games I didn't score high were my own fault (i.e. poor delivery). The tech and performance in this ball makes it the best I have ever used.
Anyone should pick this ball up, tweener, cranker, stroker...doesn't matter. This ball deserves a prime spot in your bowling lineup.
2010-2011 Tuesday Night Mixed Doubles Stats (ID: 29946)
700's: 8 (High: 780)
Games over 250: 14/48 (29%)
Average: 235 (T-5 in TX as of 25 Feb)
Post by: Pozz on March 20, 2011, 10:55:24 AM
LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume: heavier in middle
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): modified THS, sport shot
COMMENTS
Likes: Smells great :)
Dislikes: Never matched up with this ball. I tried it at many different surfaces, with and without polish, and altered hand positions. Perhaps I was buying into the hype, but I expected this ball to be much stronger off the spot. I tried this ball with several different drillings as well and just couldn't get the reaction I was expecting when I bought the ball. I will never rule out operator error, as I am very much prone to error, but I just felt like I exhausted all my options with this ball.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Post by: pbaexp12 on May 11, 2011, 01:00:52 PM
LANE CONDITION
Length:44' shark pattern
Volume:heavy senior pattern shark
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):sport
COMMENTS
Likes:This Invasion ball has plenty of back end to the bowler who like to see a big move down lane. I found that even if I missed the shot at the bottom that the ball still made a great move on the back end. I also like the smell and coloring that storm picked out for this ball. Mine is a second drill ball but doesn't seem to bother the reaction I get. This ball treated the shark pattern like a house shot and have plenty of miss room which is a great thing on these tough conditions. I will be using it more on later pro shots as I'm getting into a pba league soon.
Dislikes: No dislike at this time. I'm having nothing but fun with this ball. Great ball from storm.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
you can email me at gr8_bwler@yahoo.com
My email address has no space the space is the underscore key...
1st 300 shot with ARCH RIVAL yes!!
2nd 300 with WILD THING!!
3rd 300 game shot with JIGSAW TRAP!!
Post by: Rotoguy300 on July 18, 2011, 05:08:43 PM
Layout- Pin over ring, cg in the palm, mass bias by the thumb hole, no hole.
I was given one of these by a supplier after they were discontinued. I had been looking to add more Storm stuff to my arsenal, so anything I could get a hold of was a plus. What surprised me about this ball was how angular it was for a high-end asymmetric solid. Every time I had drilled one of these for someone else they rolled quick and smooth and looked great as a ball to throw outside on a flood, but mine looked more like a medium ball in terms of breakpoint location and shape and looked like something I would throw from the track left. I sanded the cover down to 1000 and it made it a lot more versatile for me. I was also surprised how strong this thing was- it’s every bit as strong as my Nano- at least for ME, whereas the Nano seems to hook more for just about everyone else. I dig the colors and scent as well.
Post by: veggis4 on November 18, 2013, 04:41:13 AM