BallReviews

Equipment Boards => Faball => Topic started by: HackJandy on August 20, 2017, 11:13:17 PM

Title: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on August 20, 2017, 11:13:17 PM
Tired of searching around in different posts/threads so decided to concatenate and post several of the Lichstein's Ball Guides during the 1990s for Faball in one thread (big props to RandyO in the past).


1994 - Lichstein's Ball Guide
--------------------------------

MODEL HOOK** COVER(Hardness)*** CONSTRUCTION GENERAL COMMENTS

Navy Reactive Hammer         14          Reactive(75-78)     
2-Piece

New pancake weight block reactive enables ball to skid through
the heads easilly.  Used on Tour by high revolution players and those with
slower speed for medium to light oil.  NEW
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Burgundy Hammer             10          Urethane(76-79)   
2-Piece

The urethane model features the high density core that made the
Hammer famous.  It is the best non-reactive urethane in the Faball line
for heavy oil.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blue Hammer                   9          Urethane(76-76)   
2-Piece

This ball is best for heavier oil conditions, but can be polished
up for less oily lanes. Jeff Phipps used the Blue Hammer exclusively to
average 247.89, a new league record.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------   
Purple Hammer                 9          Urethane(76-78)   
2-Piece

Designed to get through dry heads, but has stronger back-end
reaction than Blue Hammer.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Black Hammer                  8          Urethane(78-80)   
2-Piece

The original Hammer, still effective all-around from dry to oily
lanes. Polishes up well.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Red Pearl Hammer              7          Urethane(77-78)   
2-Piece

The Red Pearl goes as long as the Blue Pearl, but turns harder in
the back. A short oil ball.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blue Pearl Hammer             7          Urethane(77-78)   
2-Piece

Goes long with good back-end reaction.  Good on short oil.
Original Hammer construction.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pink Hammer                   3          Urethane(81-84) 
2-Piece

Original Hammer construction, cover stock make this one best for
dry lane conditions.


1995 - Lichestein's Ball Guide
----------------------------------


FABALL Enterprises Phone314)388-0001 or (800)423-2158(E) or (800)456-2695(W)
MODEL (Price)* HOOK** COVER*** CONSTRUCTION GENERAL COMMENTS
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Red Reactive Hammer            (3)     15    Reactive(75-78)   2-piece 

C:Latest Reactive Hammer has a new core design which creates the greatest
  flare potential in a Hammer. Norm Duke, Kim Canady, and Sandra Jo Shiery
  used it for Fall wins.  (NEW)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Navy Reactive Hammer           (3)     14    Reactive(75-78)   2-piece 

C:Faball's first reactive, combining original Hammer core w/reactive cover.
  Use dull on oily lanes or polish it for medium oil. Versatile cover retards
  tracking for longer life.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Burgandy Hammer                (3)     10    Urethane(76-79)   2-piece 

C:Urethane model features Hammer's famous high-density core; best non-reactive
  in Faball line for heavy oil. Wisconsin's Mark Munsch used it for ABC's
  highest 1994 series.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blue Hammer                    (3)      9    Urethane(75-76)   2-piece 

C:This ball is best for heavier oil conditions, but can be polished up for
  less oily lanes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Purple Hammer                  (3)      9    Urethane(75-78)   2-piece 

Cesigned to get through dry heads, has stronger back end reaction than Blue
  Hammer.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Black Hammer                   (3)      8    Urethane(78-80)   2-piece 

C:The original Hammer, still effective all-around from dry to oily lanes.
  Polishes up well.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Red Pearl Hammer               (3)      7    Urethane(77-78)   2-piece 

C:Red Pearl goes as long as the Blue Pearl, but turns harder in the back. A
  short oil ball.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blue Pearl Hammer              (3)      7    Urethane(77-78)   2-piece 

C:Goes long with good back end reaction. Good on short oil. Original Hammer
  design.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pink Hammer                    (3)      3    Urethane(81-84)   2-piece 

C:Original Hammer construction, cover stock make this one best for dry lane
  conditions.
==============================================================================


1996 - Lichstein's Ball Guide
--------------------------------


FABALL Enterprises
Phone314)388-0001 or (800) 453-2158(E)
MODEL (Price)* HOOK** COVER*** CONSTRUCTION GENERAL COMMENTS

Nova Reactive Hammer
*NEW* (3) 15+ Hammerthane 3-piece This deep purple, high flare potential model sports a sanded 320-grit finish on Faball's most aggressive cover stock. Ball features a dual-density core and is scheduled for a January '96 debut.
 
Nova Pearl Reactive Hammer
*NEW* (3) 15+ Hammerthane 3-piece The pearlized companion to the Nova Hammer, the dual-density core of this ball has the Nova's high-flare potential, but goes longer. Also avaliable in January '96.

Ice Blue Pearl Reactive Razor (2) 15 Hammerthane 3-piece Features the pearlized Hammerthane coverstock with the Razor core for more length and back-end snap.

Norm Duke Reactive Hammer (3) 15 Hammerthane 2-piece A bulb-shaped symmetrical core lies at the heart of this polished dark blue Hammer. Norm Duke, the ball's namesake, appropriatley won the PBA Cleavland Open with this one.

Berry Reactive Razor (2) 15 Urethane 3-piece Faball's original reactive Razor features a high RG dual-density core with sanded cover stock finish. Norm Duke used it to win the PBA Oregon Open, and Chris Barnes won the Mini Eliminator with the ball.

Red Razor (2) 15 Urethane 3-piece A 320-grit cover is wrapped around a high RG dual-density Razor core to perform well on oil.

Purple Reactive Hammer (3) 14 Reactive 2-piece The polished reactive cover stock is paired with a bulb-shaped core of an even strong-driving hook.

Red Reactive Hammer (3) 15 Reactive 2-piece Faball's first high-flare potential ball with a polished reactive cover stock. LPBT win for Wendy Macpherson.

Navy Reactive Hammer (2) 14 Reactive 2-piece Faball's first reactive. Use dull on oily lanes or polish it for medium oil. Versatile cover retards tracking.

Burgandy Hammer (2) 10 Urethane 2-piece Urethane model features Hammer's famous high-density core; best non-reactive in Faball line for heavy oil.

Blue Hammer (2) 9 Urethane 2-piece This ball is best for heavier oil conditions, but can be polished up for drier lanes.

Purple Hammer (2) 9 Urethane 2-piece Designed to get through dry heads, has stronger back end reaction than Blue Hammer.

Black Hammer (2) 8 Urethane 2-piece The original Hammer, still effective all-around from dry to oily lanes. Polishes up well.

Red/Blue Pearl Hammer (2) 7 Urethane 2-piece First pearlized 2-piece urethanes go longer with good back-end reaction. Both are good short oil balls.

Pink Hammer (2) 3 Urethane 2-piece Original Hammer construction, cover stock make this one best for dry lane conditions.


1997 - Lichstein's Ball Guide
--------------------------------


Model
 Price
 Hook Range
 Construction
/Cover
 General Comments
 
3-D Hammer Midnight Pearl
 3
 14-18
 4-Piece
 NEW---Triple-density weight block. Upper and lower flip blocks surrounded by aggressive NeoFlex reactive cover. Medium/low RG ball provides 6+" flare potential. Polished finish retains axis rotation.
 
3-D Hammer Charcoal Blue
 3
 15-18
 4-Piece
 NEW---Faball's 6448 Matte Sand finish; companion to Pearl 3-D. Hookingest Hammer. Reactive Neoflex cover stock. 3-D core has two symmetrically balanced flip blocks attached to high-density center sphere.
 
Burgundy Hammer
 3
 10-14
 2-Piece
 High friction urethane cover around Hammer weight block. shot consistency even after oil breakdown.
 
Blue Hammer
 3
 11-13
 2-Piece
 Versatile Hammer urethane cover and weight block to grab and hook on heavy oil. A very popular combo.
 
PC2 Hammer
 2
 12-16
 2-Piece
 NEW---Aggressive Neoflex reactive cover over popular bulb weight block. Moderate MOI and RG differential.
 
PC3 Hammer
 1
 6-9
 3-Piece
 NEW---Hammer urethane cover at entry price. Sphere core with wafer weight block. 6448 Matte Sand red finish.
 
Nova Reactive Hammer
 3
 14-16
 3-Piece/Hammerthane-N
 Hammerthane-N reactive cover. Multi-Density core w/HV cap for extended flare potential. Aggressive hook.
 
Nova Pearl Hammer
 3
 13-15
 3-Piece/Hammerthane-N
 Pearlized Hammerthane-N around Multi-Density core and HV cap. Flare potential 4+". Good on med/lt. oil.
 
Ice Blue Razor
 2
 12-14
 Modified 3-Piece
 Dual-density core polished blue Pearl reactive cover. High MOI, moderate RG differential=adaptable ball.
 
Red Razor
 2
 10-12
 Modified 3-Piece
 HPF urethane w/dual-density core=hit power of reactive w/urethane control. Mid-lane length; max. back end.
 
Red Pearl Hammer
 2
 5-7
 2-Piece
 First pearlized urethane. Hammer weight block gives good back-end reaction on medium and light oil.

Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: JamminJD on August 21, 2017, 08:00:45 AM
Oldie but a goodie, I remember that guide. Pretty cool you found it..
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on August 21, 2017, 09:38:12 AM
Actually never seen one that I can remember.  Stole it all off this site in different places.  Darn valuable info for Faball enthusiasts imo.
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: JamminJD on August 21, 2017, 11:28:35 AM
I had the original guides in print but I can't find them..
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: DP3 on August 21, 2017, 10:51:58 PM
FYI, balls considered High Flare were in the 3-4" range back then tops. The 3-D Offsets were the first in t he Hammer line to start reaching the 6" flare range.
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: itsallaboutme on August 22, 2017, 04:35:46 AM
The 3-D Offset was far from underwhelming.
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on August 22, 2017, 09:44:07 AM
Yeah they had some people really liked but then you had the Berry Razor which was well not great.
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: JamminJD on August 22, 2017, 12:38:30 PM
They struggled with the first few and were slow to respond to the Reactive era..
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: WOWZERS on August 22, 2017, 01:12:47 PM
Very resistant at first and the first few introductions were not so great....the Red Reactive Hammer....oh boy. Navy Reactive....ummm....but the 3Ds and then the 3D Offsets...wow those were some fantastic bowling balls. The Maxx was the best one for me.
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on August 22, 2017, 03:15:04 PM
Cool good to know.  Sounded like it was a too little too late by then.
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on February 25, 2018, 12:18:31 AM
The following chart updated annually by Larry Lichstein, is based primarily on his scrutiny of the equipment in the hands of professionals on Tour conditions. Note that ball speed, axis tilt, revolutions, angle of entry and other factors affect ball reaction, including the oiling pattern and ability of the bowler. Obviously, the list also includes many balls not seen on the Tour, whereby the information comes mainly from the manufacturer of the particular model mentioned. But they are listed because one just might be the right one for you.

General Retail Price Code:

1. Less than $75
2. $75 to $124.99
3. $125 to $160
4. Over $160
Hook power, on a scale of 1-to-15, with 15 the largest.

Durometer readings taken at the factory; these can be drastically affected by temperature and humity in the field.

Lichstein's 1994 Ball Guide
Model(Price)*                   Hook**      Cover***           
Construction       
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on February 25, 2018, 12:19:12 AM
AMF
Dick Weber Legacy(2)            10          Urethane(76-78)     
3-Piece
     

This new urethane ball will get a try by most of the troops
because it is named for one of the Tour's real legends.  Besides,
AMF's bringing out the marketing guns on this line. NEW

Dick Weber RR Legacy (2)        14          Reactive(76-78)       
3-Piece

This reactive model of AMF's new Five-Star Legacy serices, this ball
has the strong hitting power/reaction charcteristics of most
reactive balls, but with many key differences. NEW

Ninja Black(3)                  12          Reactive(76-78)         
3-Piece

Good back-end flip provides a wide range of "creatability" on
various oil patterns.

Ninja Master(3)                 13          Reactive(76-78)         
3-Piece

One of the two new listings in the Ninja line of reactive urethanes,
this even even-arcing, heavy-rolling ball has made the telecast
numerous times since its Summer Tour intro.  NEW

Ninja Fury(3)                   15          Reactive(76-78)         
3-Piece

This is the Ninja that hooks the most, and it really digs in.
Won the 1993 World Cup. NEW

Sumo(3)                         10          Urethane(76-78)       
2-Piece

This black urethane ball has a patented oversized weight block.
It is  factory unshined.

Cobra(2)                         9          Urethane(76-78)       
2-Piece

Strike coil weight block produces consistent roll, but has enough
power for good carry.

Bobcat(2)                        7          Urethane(77-78)       
3-Piece

Three-piece construction makes this mid-priced ball perform best
on medium to dry lanes.

Boogie(2)                        2          Polyester(80-82)       
3-Piece

For kids and 'teens, this bright ball is available in five
lilvely colors.

ASU Inc.
Cheetah(3)                      12          Reactive(76-78)         
2-Piece

A reactive ball with a specially designed "diamond series" weight
block, which is said to provide a predictable, heavy roll without that
uncontrollable snap.  Consistent reaction.

Cheetah Gold(3)                 12          Reactvie(76-78)
2-Piece

The gold model of the Cheetah, this ball features a larger core,
which is designed to created more length than the original, and which
provides a strong back-end finish.  NEW

Patriot Blue(3)                 10          Urethane(76-78)           
2-Piece

ASU's first ball, it is known for its consistent, hard-rolling
action.

The Eliminator(3)               10          Urethane(76-78) 
2-Piece

Another ASU ball with the "diamond series" weight block: better
on oily lanes.

Patriot Special Edition(3)      15          Reactive(76-78)     
2-Piece

A reactive ball with the same consistency as urethane, but with
more hitting power. NEW

BRUNSWICK
Rhino RE(2)                     11          Reactive(77-79)         
2-Piece

Mike Aulby shot a 300 on TV the first week it was available. This
reactive  ball has a large core, which helps it overcome dry heads
while retaining good back-end reaction. NEW

Steel Rhino Pro(3)              11          Reactive(77-79) 
2-Piece

Oversized core of this new reactive is designed to get the ball farther
down the lane than the Teal Rhino Pro, but with stronger backend
reaction than then Purple Rhino Pro.  NEW

Purple Rhino Pro(3)             12          Reactive(77-79) 
2-Piece

Brian Davis shot 299 in the title match to win the first Tour event he
entered. Since its '92 debut, has won 17 pro titles.  Goes long with a
hookability of 12 on dry back ends.

Teal Rhino Pro(3)               15          Reactive(77-79)
2-Piece

Has won 11 Tour titles since its Jan '93 deubt, including George
Branham III's T of C win.

Black Rhino Pro(3)               9          Urethane(77-79)
2-Piece

Traditional urethane cover: best with dull surface on oily lanes,
but can be shined for dry.

Blue Rhino Pro(3)               10          Urethane(77-79)   
Compound

Fortified urethane cover with center-heavy core helps ball roll
through the heads and turn.

Navy Phantom(3)                 10          Urethane(78-80) 
Compound

Low moment of inertia lends it to use on oily lanes.  An exotic
3-piecer, with video.

Black Phantom(2)                 8          Urethane(78-80)         
2-Piece

Pin placement is so important on this ball that a video has been
made with drilling tips.

Black Rhino(2)                   6          Urethane(78-80)         
3-Piece

For light to medium oily lanes, but will go longer if shined.

Cobalt Rhino(2)                  7          Urethane(78-80)         
3-Piece

Heaviest-hooking Rhino; best for tight lanes, but can be shined
for medium oily lanes.

Siren(1)                         2          Polyester(79-81)   
3-Piece

Pearlized ball available in seven colors; made to go long, so
it's best for dry lanes.

BTV (BRUNSWICK TECHNOLOGY VENTURES)
Forest Green Quantum(4)         15          Reactive(77-79)     
2-Piece

One of the new family of Quantums (all available only through authorized
pro shops), this model give excellent skid thourhg the heads and a strong
backend reaction.  At $200 a ball, I expect to see a strong marketing
effort for all balls in BTV's Quantum line.  NEW

Midnight Blue Quantum(4)        14          Reactive(77-79)   
3-Piece

Another in the new Quantum line, this 3-piece cover-heavy ball features
a 2-piececompound core with a reactive cover for extreme length and
strong backend reaction. NEW

Dark Scarlet Quantum(4)         11          Urethane(78-80)   
2-Piece

The urethane model in BTV's Quantum line, ball is designed to provide
consistent reaction on spotty lane conditions while holding goodlength
with strong backend reaction.   NEW

CHAMPIONS
Reactive Ultimate Weapon(3)     13          Reactive(76-78)     
2-Piece

One of two new reactives in the Champions line, Norm Duke used this ball
soon after its dubut to win in Detroit.  The reactive shell surrounds a
single-piece weight block, while the cover/weight block combo provide
more consistent and controllable reaction.  NEW

Dragon(3)                       12          Reactive(76-78)     
2-Piece

Newly formulated reactive coverstock around a single-piece weight
block produces a later break point and strong hook.  Dull "matte" finish
makes it good on oil, but can be polished up to tame that hook on
drier conditions.   NEW

Ultimate Weapon(3)              11          Urethane(76-78)       
2-Piece

This wine-colored non-reactive ball was used to win both U.S. Opens
last year (men's and women's) and the 1993 ABC Masters.  Provides
controllable hook plus strong back end.

Black Weapon(2)                  9          Urethane(76-78)       
3-Piece

This ball rolls like a 3-piece with the hit of a 2-piecer.  It's
great drilled axis or leverage.

Burgundy Weapon(2)               7          Urethane(76-78)       
3-Piece

Good on medium oil, but versatile coverstock accepts shine to cut
down hook.

Blue Weapon(2)                   4          Urethane(79-81)     
3-Piece

Weapon weight block and core with cover stock for light oil conditions.
Factory polished.

COLUMBIA
PowerTORQ(3)                    15          Reactive(76-78)       
2-Piece

Ron Winger threw a TV 300 on Sr. Tour.  Several '93 PBA titles, including
those by Pete Weber (Japan) and Dave Husted.  Cover stock is 100% Flexcel
by BASF.  NEW

Pro Hook Extreme(2)             10          Reactive(76-78)       
3-Piece

Hard back-end flip on short oil conditions.  Best when heards are
hooking early.

Pro Hook Black(3)               11          Reactive(76-78)     
2-Piece

Very predictable roll.  Back-end arc makes it best on most short
oil conditions.

The Beast(2)                    12          ReactiveBlend(76-78)
2-pc

The cover stock on this versatile reasonable priced ball features a
BASF Flexcel blend.

Black U-Dot(2)                  12          ReactiveBlend(76-78)
3-pc

Best for that extra hook on the back-ends as oil carries down;
hard-hitting 3-piece reactive.

Wrecking Ball(1)                 8          Urethane(77-80)   
3-Piece

Two models (blue and charcoal pearlized) are best for drier lane
conditions. NEW

Yellow Dot Legend(1)             5          Polyester(76-78)   
3-Piece

Still a great ball in its 18th year.  Good for extremely hooking
conditions.

Black Knight(1)                  3          Polyester(78-82)
3-Piece

A sloid black polyester ball with a low-end price for those dry
league conditions.

White Dot(1)                     3          Polyester(78-82)     
3-Piece

Now available in nine new colors.  Great first ball for beginner
bowlers.

Blue Dot(1)                      1          Polyester(83-87)       
3-Piece

Hardest polyester ball made.  Great spare ball, or when lanes are
like the Mojave Desert.

CSI (Carmen Salvino Inc.)
HyPower(3)                      10          HyTherm(76-78) 
2-Piece

Steve Jaros shot 279 and 236 on TV with this ball shortly after its
introduction.  The ball was developed by Carmen Salvino, who went into the
lab and cameup with a completely new cover stock material.  Hook power is
12, but can be modified for hook range of 9-12.  NEW

COOK'S BOWLING PRODUCTS
Pro Series(3)                   10          HyTherm(76-78)
3-Piece

This PBA Hall of Famer debuts with a dark teal reactive with a
400-grit factory sanding.  A 2-piecer, the ball has a "flip" block for
even roll down the lane and a strong finish.  NEW

EBONITE
Nitro R(3)                      15          Reactive(76-77)     
2-Piece

Sanded lime ball has a solid record on the PBA Tour, and four
LPBT titles. Nitro core and reactive resin cover give it maximum hook without
a severe overreaction.  NEW

Gyro Pro Teal(2)                 8          Reactive(78-80)
3-Piece

New pancake weight block reactive enables ball to skid through the heads
easily.  Used on Tour by high revolution players and those with slower
speed for medium to light oil.  NEW

Crush/R(3)                      10          Reactive(76-77)     
4-Piece

The ball of choice of the '93 Tour's "All World" Walter Ray Williams Jr.,
this ball features a lightly sanded urethane cover with a secondary soft
innser shell to keep the pins low. 

Turbo X(2)                      11          Reactive(76-77)   
3-Piece

Two-component core has dense top weight for shart pocket angle.
Sand for 14 hookability.

Crush(3)                         9          Urethane(76-77)   
4-Piece

Double shell.  2-component core cuts through heavy oil and carrydown.
Won 2 PBA titles.

Nitro(3)                        10          Urethane(76-78)   
2-Piece

Special additives in a sanded cover stock enable the ball to save
its hook for the back-ends.

Turbo Ebony(2)                  10          Urethane(76-77)
2-Piece

Same core design as the Nitro, but with an earlier, smoother
rolling cover stock.  Versatile.

Turbo Sapphire(2)                4          Urethane(80-82) 
2-Piece

Polished, pearlized cover stock using the Nitro core makes this
ball perfect for lighter oil
 
Turbo Scarlet(2)                 3          Urethane(82-84) 
2-Piece

The Scarlet is bet for conditions when you need maximum skid on
dry lanes.

Gyro I Blue Sanded(1)            9          Urethane(76-78)   
3-Piece

A mid-priced 3-piece ball; is Ebonite's answer for those
upgrading from polyester.

Lady Ebonite(1)                  2          Urethane(80-84) 
3-Piece

Bright pearlized colors and the Ebonite Thumderbolt core are
featured in this ball.
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on February 25, 2018, 12:19:49 AM
FABALL
Navy Reactive Hammer(3)         14          Reactive(75-78)     
2-Piece

New pancake weight block reactive enables ball to skid through
the heads easilly.  Used on Tour by high revolution players and those with
slower speed for medium to light oil.  NEW

Burgundy Hammer(3)              10          Urethane(76-79)   
2-Piece

The urethane model features the high density core that made the
Hammer famous.  It is the best non-reactive urethane in the Faball line
for heavy oil.

Blue Hammer(3)                   9          Urethane(76-76)   
2-Piece

This ball is best for heavier oil conditions, but can be polished
up for less oily lanes. Jeff Phipps used the Blue Hammer exclusively to
average 247.89, a new league record.
   
Purple Hammer(3)                 9          Urethane(76-78)   
2-Piece

Designed to get through dry heads, but has stronger back-end
reaction than Blue Hammer.

Black Hammer(3)                  8          Urethane(78-80)   
2-Piece

The original Hammer, still effective all-around from dry to oily
lanes. Polishes up well.

Red Pearl Hammer(3)              7          Urethane(77-78)   
2-Piece

The Red Pearl goes as long as the Blue Pearl, but turns harder in
the back. A short oil ball.

Blue Pearl Hammer(3)             7          Urethane(77-78)   
2-Piece

Goes long with good back-end reaction.  Good on short oil.
Original Hammer construction.

Pink Hammer(3)                   3          Urethane(81-84) 
2-Piece

Original Hammer construction, cover stock make this one best for
dry lane conditions.

HSP Inc.
Sun Storm(3)                    11          Reactive(76-76) 
2-Piece

According to its ads, this new yellow reactive urethane from High Score
Products is "not for the timid."  It has a very dense weight block and thick
cover for strong hook.  This ball is factory dull for use on oi,
but it hooks "violently" whe shined.  NEW

Pacific Storm(3)                12          Reactive(76-77) 
3-Piece

Another new HSP listing, this factory dull ball features a dense weight
block with a unique shell designed specifically for the "Pacific rim"
bowler, thus the name.  NEW

Tropical Storm(1)               13          Reactive(76-77) 
3-Piece

The first mid-priced reactive to my knowledge, this dull ball again
features HSP's dense core block which yields strong back-end reaction.
NEW

Black Storm(3)                   7          Urethane(78-80) 
2-Piece

The lone regular HSP urethane, its cross-inertia weight block is
designed to keep pins low.

Teal Pearl Storm(3)             10          Reactive(76-77)   
3-Piece

A Senior Tour favorite, this reactive ball is designed to hook
hard, but with control.

Blue Pearl Storm(3)              8          Reactive(76-77)   
3-Piece

Unique shell combined with dense weight block give smooth,
controlled flip.  Crankers like it.

JPF Inc.
Black Axe(3)                     8          Urethane(78)   
      2-Piece

Ball has built-in axis weight; comes in lef and right handed
models.

Blue Axe(3)                      9          Urethane(78) 
      2-Piece

Never see this ball on Tour: same construction as the Black Axe,
except  it hooks more.

KBS Products
Power Exsion(2)                   9         Urethane(78-80) 
3-Piece

Mid-priced ball performs best on medium conditions.  Available in
black or burgundy.  NEW

Super Exsion(2)                  10         Urethane(78-80) 
2-Piece

Two-piece construction produces earlier, heavier roll than above.
Navy or burgundy.  NEW

NU LINE
Purple X-Calibur(3)               7         Reactive(76-78) 
2-Piece

The ball that started the reactive revolution, in that the ball
rools long and finishes strong.

Blue X-Calibur(3)                10         Reactive(76-78) 
2-Piece

The blue reactive reacts well on heavy oil  The ball features a
dual weight block.

LANE #1
Purple Buzzsaw(3)                11         Reactive(76-78)   
2-Piece

The latest creation from Lane #1, this reactive ball hooks more
than the predecessor after which it was named.  A unique weight block
makes drilling critical.  NEW

Buzzsaw(3)                       10         Reactive(76-78)
2-Piece

This black reactive ball has a unique diamond weight block which
gives consistent roll.

PARAMOUNT
Red Kaboose(4)                   13          Reactive(77-79) 
4-Piece

Even hooking action.  Easy to control with max hitting power on
heavy to medium oil.  NEW

Purple Kaboose(4)                11          Reactive(77-79) 
3-Piece

Best on heavy to medium oil; maximum hooking action, but easy to
control. NEW

Power Elite Techno(3)             6          Reactive(77-79) 
2-Piece

Goes long on dry lanes, then hits hard.  Black pearlized ball
best on medium oil.  NEW

PIN-BREAKER
Blue Pin-Breaker                  8           Urethane(76-78)
3-Piece

Factory sanded, ball is good for medium to oily lanes.  A
reactive will debut soon.

Red Pin-Breaker(3)                5           Urethane(80-82) 
3-Piece

Another that doesn't get much Tour use; low porisity cover's best
for dry to medium lanes.

ROTO-GRIP
Bandit(3)                        11           Reactive(76-78)   
3-Piece

A new listing, this ball dos a great job of expanding Roto-Grip's
line of reactive offerings.  As with most Roto-Grip models, it is
designed for versatility.  NEW

Roto Outlaw(3)                   11           Reactive(76-78)
2-Piece

Reactive 2-piece urethane with grenade-shaped weight block; hooks
well on various lanes.

The Grenade(3)                    9           Urethane(78)   
2-Piece

This ball features a grenade-shaped weight block, this
charcoal-gold ball has a controllable hook.

Blue Grenade(3)                   8           Urethane(80)   
2-Piece

Ball features a cover stock designed for ABC's "short oil" rules;
grenade-shaped weight block.

Gold Grenade(3)                   4           Urethane(80)   
2-Piece

Another with the grenade weight block, this charcol-gold ball has
a controllable hook.

Roto-Start X-3(3)                 7           Urethane(77)     
4-Piece

This 4-piece, double-shelled ball reacts well on oil, but can be
polished for drier lanes.

Roto-Grip(2)                      3           Polyester(75-80)   
3-Piece

Ball reacts well on short oil; goes long with strong finish on
lanes with dry back ends.

SPORTS TEC
Rack Attack(2)                   10           Urethane(76-78)   
3-Piece

The newest offering from Sports Tec has the strongest hooking
power in its line.  NEW 

Black Pro-Line(1)                10           Urethane(76-80)     
3-Piece

The soft, dull black urethane ball is designed for controlled
hook on medium to heavy oil.

Blue Pro-Line(1)                  6           Urethane(76-80)   
3-Piece

This blue pearl ball comes factory shined and is best for today's
league conditions.

Pro-line Polyester(1)             2           Polyester(80-85)   
3-Piece

Available in five colors, this low-priced ball is best ofr medium
to dry league conditions.

TRACK
Critical Mass(3)                 15           Reactive(76-78)   
2-Piece

Features Versathane cover and lowest radious of gyration possible
for maximum revs.  NEW

The Nuke(3)                      14           Reactive(76-78) 
2-Piece

The news reactive model in the Track arsenal. The Nuke is designed to
go long and use its stored energy for that strong flipping action at the
back end.  NEW

T-Shark(3)                       11           Reactive(76-78) 
2-Piece

This ball was introduced during the year, but it is new to the list.  Look
for the characteristic reactive action--the black ball goes long and
finishes strong.  NEW

Shark(2)                         10           Urethane(76-78)
2-Piece

This blue ball hooks a lot, but is designed not to roll out.
Good for league conditions.

Blue Enforcer(2)                  9           Urethane(75-77)   
2-Piece

Dynamically blananced dual weight blocks and thick shell; maximum
hook on heavy oil.

Black Enforcer(2)                 7           Urethane(78-80)   
2-Piece

San Enforcer construction, but with moderate porosity to handle
medium/short oil lanes.

Trackster(2)                      8           Urethane(76-78)
3-Piece

Dark blue ball with dense pancake weight block positioned close
to surface for late hook.

Track-10(2)                      10           Urethane(76-78)   
3-Piece

Royal blue ball has a dense, oversized weight block for earlier
roll and minimum skid.

UNIVERSAL
Bulldozer(1)                      6           Urethane(77-78) 
2-Piece

Dark blue ball with sanded finish is best for medium league
conditions. Modestly priced.

WILSON
Pro Staff(3)                     10           Urethane(76-78)   
2-Piece

This teal-colored ball produces a controllable, heavy roll with
strong back-end hook.

Pro Staff II(3)                  12           Reactive(76-78)   
2-Piece

This burgundy-colored reactive urethane ball holds its line and "flips"
on the back-end, but the ball does not over-react, providing a
controlable roll.  NEW
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on February 25, 2018, 12:42:15 AM
This is not Lichsteins but another Faball review comparison source from 2001 or so.

Here's the Text only that I pulled from the file. The original HTML file has pictures of the balls and cores. (They spelled "length" wrong but good help was hard to find back in 2001 apparently)

Faball - Hammer



Black Hammer 2001
Coverstock: Nylothane
Radius of Gyration: 2,465
Back End: 17 / 19
Finish: 800 Matte
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 4" - 6"
Hook: 20 + / 17
Leght 6 / 7

4 D Reactive
Coverstock: Neoflex III
Radius of Gyration: 2,51
Back End: 18
Finish: 1200 Matte
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 4" - 7"
Hook: 20 / 16
Leght 8
 
   
4D - Hpt
Coverstock: HPT
Radius of Gyration: 2,51
Back End: 17
Finish: 800 Matte
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 4" - 7"
Hook: 20 / 15
Leght 7

4D - Hpt Hammer Tour
Coverstock: HPT Tour
Radius of Gyration: 2,51
Back End: 19
Finish: 1200 Polish
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 4" - 7"
Hook: 19 / 15
Leght 8
 
   
3D Violet Offset
Coverstock: Neoflex
Radius of Gyration: 2,52
Back End: 11
Finish: 1200 Matte
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 6"
Hook: 19 / 14
Leght 9,5

3D Violet Pearl Offset
Coverstock: Neoflex
Radius of Gyration: 2,52
Back End: 18
Finish: 1200 Polish
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 6"
Hook: 18 / 13
Leght 7,5
 
   
Blue Hammer
Coverstock: Urethane
Radius of Gyration: 2,51
Back End: 6
Finish: 800 Matte
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 3"
Hook: 11 / 5
Leght 5

Burgundy Hammer
Coverstock: Urethane
Radius of Gyration: 2,52
Back End: 8
Finish: 800 Matte
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 3"
Hook: 12 / 6
Leght 6
 
   
Reaper 2
Coverstock: Neoflex XL
Radius of Gyration: 2,55
Back End: 19
Finish: 1200 Polish
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 1" - 3"
Hook: 17 / 14
Leght 8

Reaper
Coverstock: Neoflex XL
Radius of Gyration: 2,55
Back End: 16
Finish: 1200 Polish
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 2" - 5"
Hook: 17 / 14
Leght 8
     
Spike Reactive
Coverstock: Neoflex with Mica Cristal
Radius of Gyration: 2,50
Back End: 19
Finish: 1200 Polish
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 4" - 8"
Hook: 19 / 14
Leght 6

Spike HPT
Coverstock: HPT
Radius of Gyration: 2,50
Back End: 19
Finish: 800 Matte
Weights: 13 - 16 Lb
Flare : 4" - 8"
Hook: 20 / 17
Leght 4
   
Jet Black Nasty Nail
Coverstock: Neoflex Rea
Radius of Gyration: 2,52
Back End: 18
Finish: 1200 Matte
Weights: 10 - 16 Lb
Flare : 3" - 7"
Hook: 16
Leght 7

Jade Green Nasty Nail
Coverstock: Neoflex Rea
Radius of Gyration: 2,52
Back End: 18
Finish: 1500 polish
Weights: 10 - 16 Lb
Flare : 3" - 7"
Hook: 16
Leght 8
 
   
Navy Blue Nail
Coverstock: Neoflex Rea
Radius of Gyration: 2,50
Back End: 12
Finish: 1200 Matte
Weights: 10 - 16 Lb
Flare : 5"
Hook: 12
Leght 8,5

Purple Pearl Nail
Coverstock: Neoflex Rea
Radius of Gyration: 2,50
Back End: 13
Finish: 1500 Polish
Weights: 10 - 16 Lb
Flare : 5"
Hook: 12
Leght 9
     
Ocean Claw & Tiger Claw
Coverstock: Reactive Glow
Finish: 1500 Polish
Weights: 10 - 16 Lb
Back End: 7
Hook: 8
Flare : 2"
Leght 9
     
Teal Green Claw & Blue Pearl Claw
Coverstock: Reactive
Finish: 800 Matte - 1500 Polish
Weights: 10 - 16 Lb
Back End: 6
Hook: 8
Flare : 2"
Leght 9
   
Red Pearl Claw & Puple Claw
Coverstock: Urethane
Finish: 1500 Polish - 800 Matte
Weights: 10 - 16 Lb
Back End: 5
Hook: 6
Flare : 1"
Leght 9,5
 
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: HackJandy on February 25, 2018, 12:43:25 AM
The mother lode.  By the way virtually all of this info is courtesy of user RandyO who I give huge props to.

http://www.pipeline.com/~cathyo/Faball_Files/
Title: Re: Faball Lichstein's Ball Guides
Post by: six pack on February 25, 2018, 01:06:52 AM
Great find! That 2001 blue looks interesting.