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Author Topic: Xponent Review  (Read 23919 times)

addynyr

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Xponent Review
« on: August 07, 2023, 10:42:08 AM »
Layout: 5 x 4 x 3
Surface:  Box - 4000 Abralon

I was very excited when I heard the announcement of this ball as I really liked the Ordnance C4.  The Shrapnel 2.0 core is brought back in the Xponent from the Ordnance series which was a proven winner.  The cover is the brand new reserve blend 701 solid which can handle a decent amount of oil and is very continuous down lane.  Best designed for medium oil conditions, the Xponent will be that benchmark ball that is first out of the bag on a variety of different conditions.  I was able to test this on the Kegel Sphinx sport pattern which a 40ft, 2:1 ratio with medium oil volume as well as a typical house pattern.

On the Kegel Sphinx pattern, I saw a lot of continuation on the middle and back part of the pattern.  The 4000 grit abralon surface allowed for easy push through the front of the lane while the low rg core got it to rev up strong in the midlane.  The combination of cover and core here allows for easy predictability when the lanes are tough, or the pattern is fresh.  The 4000 grit is definitely best suited for older lane surfaces or those who are more rev dominant or have slower speed.  The continuation is so good with this ball that it is a ball for me that will come to all tournaments.  On the pattern, I was able to play closer to the friction and more down and in on the fresh.  As the pattern developed and I had to move to the inside part of the lane, I had no problem getting recovery and the right continuation through the pins.  This is a slightly weaker Phaze 2 for me and reacts very similarly.  Bringing the surface to a lower grit will help on more oil or if the ball feels too weak at 4000 grit. 

On the house pattern, I saw very similar reaction to the Sphinx Pattern.  The Xponent allowed me to be up the lane more on the fresh with a little more firmer ball speed or the ability to play more left to right on the lane with my normal style.  There is very high versatility with this Xponent where it will allow you to play the lanes for your style and environment.   Compared to the Ordnance C4, I saw slightly earlier ball motion and more continuation through the pins.  Compared to the Zen, I saw slightly cleaner motion through the front part of the lane and a more controlled backend.  The Zen was overall stronger and gave more backend angle.  The Xponent is definitely that benchmark ball that is smooth, continuous and predictable.   A great first ball out of the bag for a wide range of bowlers.  The blue color scheme also looks really well going down the lane. 

Adam Chase
Storm Staff
Adam Chase
Storm Regional Staff
Vise Regional Staff
Bowlifi Regional Staff
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@adamchasebowling

 

william.tefft

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #1 on: August 07, 2023, 08:37:44 PM »
Ball Specs: Xponent
Core: Symmetric
Cover: Batch 701 Solid
Finish: 4000 grit

Review:
Introducing the new 700 series ball from 900 Global. The Xponent is the latest and greatest benchmark ball produced by 900 Global. This ball slides in perfectly in that benchmark spot that so many people fight to find sometimes. Seeing that this ball has a very smooth reaction you will find yourself gravitating to it not just for the color combo but also the great reaction you’ll see on the lanes. I drilled mine with a very neutral layout that was pin down. I really wanted to see how versatile this ball could be for me. It did not disappoint I was able to move left and open up my angles and the ball still came back, when the lanes were a little wetter, I was still able to move right and play straight without fear of the ball over hooking. If you are looking for that next ball that will be a little stronger than your Burner or Hustle the Xponent is the perfect next step up. If you are looking for that benchmark ball that can be the first one out of your bag I would suggest taking a long look at this ball. Make sure you grab yours today!
Will Tefft
900 Global Staff Member
will@parklanes.net
www.900global.com

SJimEagle

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #2 on: August 08, 2023, 10:31:31 AM »
How close is the Xponent to the HyRoad-X.   

Kevin Duncan

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #3 on: August 09, 2023, 12:00:13 PM »
900 Global Xponent
Layout: 4.5 x 4.5 x 2 Storm Pin Buffer Layout
Rev Rate: 325 rpm, 7 degree of axis tilt, 40 degree of axis rotation
Testing information: 41 foot THS (medium to light volume)
Bowling Center: Fulton Bowling Center
Kegel Machine – Brunswick Anvilane

The 900 Global Xponent combines the Shrapnel 2.0 core and the hand-crafted 701 Blend solid cover.  We tested with the factory 4000 finish.  900 Global is committed to crafting small batches of coverstock with specific purposes in mind.  Smaller batch production is an exciting twist that I am interested in learning more about.  We tested the Xponent alongside the RG DUO.  Both balls will be in the benchmark ball zone of your arsenal (RG = 2.28 and Diff = 0.042).  We see the Xponent being a step down from your Zen or Phase II.  Both the Xponent and DUO were used a lot at the recent PBA50 WSOB in Jackson, Michigan, which is a good sign.

Visit your local Storm VIP Pro Shop!
#Stormnation

rotogrip_rick

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #4 on: August 10, 2023, 07:56:42 PM »
900 Global Xponent – Shrapnel 2.0 core with Batch #701 solid reactive cover.
Layout: 55 x 4 ¼ x 40 – 4000ab out of box and tested with 2000ab.
Here we go: For the #striking worldwide fans – the Ordnance C4 core returns in this new ball from Global with the new 701 solid reactive cover. Using on fresh and used light to medium volume house pattern, the Xponent was reliable and predictable with playing up the track area and getting closer to the gutter and going up the lighter volume part the pattern – outside of 8-10 boards, once I bumped way inside around 16-20 board, it still held energy through the heads and did not burn up. Reminding me of the Zen Master with a longer pin layout I had a couple of years ago. Does not roll heavily through the front part of the lanes like other solids in this performance level. The Xponent matched up very well all on a full spectrum of lane surfaces and patterns. The Xponent can be rolled and be very useful from once-a-week league bowler all the way up to the top professional. Witnessed a very powerful collegiate bowler and I thought he would just throw it so hard it would not react, but it did – I was quite surprised by that. That just backed up my feelings that any skill level bowler can benefit from this ball.
Please visit www.stormbowling.com for additional information and see your local pro shop operator to purchase this new 900 Global Xponent.

Rick K

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #5 on: August 10, 2023, 10:23:12 PM »
Xponent • 900 Global • 700 Series
Core • Shrapnel 2.0 • Symmetric
Coverstock • Reserve Blend 701 Solid • Finish 4000-Grit Abralon
Weight • 15 lbs. RG • 2.48 Differential • .042
Layout • 4 x 4 ½ x 2
Tester PAP • 5” R, 5/8” D Tester Axis Tilt • 11° Testers Rev Rate • 300
Test Pattern • 42' THS (Typical House Shot) • Modified, Kegel Stone Street

900 Global is once again striking worldwide! And this time, with the marvelous release of the new Xponent. Combining the Shrapnel 2.0 Symmetric Core with the all-new Reserve Blend 701, the Xponent is 900 Globals' best benchmark ball to date, bringing with it some outstanding results. So, let's take a closer look at what makes the Xponent so good!

At the heart of the Xponent is the Shrapnel 2.0 symmetric core. And from its first iteration inside the Ordinance C4, the keyword for the Shrapnel 2.0 for a down and in player like me is - predictability! And now, inside the Xponent, the Shrapnel 2.0 allowed me to stay in my A-Game all night long. The Shrapnel 2.0 revs briskly in the mid-lane, and it handles my high-speed/low-rev hand with a smooth and stable motion that brings consistent results to the pocket every shot. Now, keep in mind, being a lower rev rate player, Symmetric Cores tend to roll out, deflect off the five pin, or run out of gas, leaving me corner pin city. But with the Shrapnel 2.0, it was a real confidence builder to watch my Xponent roll decisively through the deck and kick out whatever gets in its way!

The Reserve Blend 701 Solid coverstock found on the Xponent is the ideal match to the Shrapnel 2.0., and solidifies the Xponent as 900 Globals' next benchmark ball. So with benchmark in mind, I started by sanding my Xponent with a 2000 grit-Abralon pad to give my Xponent the actual "benchmark test." And on THS conditions with my down and in style, the results were fantastic. I loved early on fresh conditions how the Reserve Blend 701 cut through the fronts with a clean and clear track, allowing the Xponent to read in the mid-lane with a smooth yet, mildly biting motion. And without being overly aggressive, I liked how the Reserve Blend 701 doesn't overreact to friction when it comes off the pattern. So, whether early on the fresh oil playing right of the second arrow or moving in my angles as the conditions started breaking down, the reserve Blend 701 reads the lane conditions with a smooth and predictable motion that I felt confident with all night during league play.

So, in closing this review, I would tell you 900 Global has done an excellent job with the Xponent.  And the Xponent is all 900 Global claims it would be, and then some. The Xponent is benchmark in motion and explosive with its hitting power making it the best of both worlds. So, if you're a down-and-in player like me, the Xponent is an excellent choice to be the first ball out of your bag or the only new ball you need for the new season. So stop into your local Strom VIP Pro shop today and have your Xponent ready for the first night of your fall league. Your scores will be glad you did!

Rick Klimowicz
Storm Products Pro Shop Staff
Roll the Ball Pro Shop
Penndel, PA

Brian Eger

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #6 on: August 11, 2023, 12:41:29 PM »
900 Global XPonent
Layout 5 x 4 x 2.5
Style – stroker
Ball Speed – 14–15 mph at pins
Condition – house pattern - older HPL surface
Surface – box condition

I’ve drilled so many solid/symmetrical balls over the years it’s staggering. However, I’ve not had a tremendous amount of success lately with any that I’ve drilled up. Whether it’s layout, covers being too aggressive for my speed and or lane surface I keep finding my way back to the IQ Tour Solid.

It looks like it’s a success on all 3 tours already. Barnes, Simonsen and Diana Z have all won tournaments using it. And I’ve seen multiple other competitors use it in qualification.
The ball arrives and looks chalky, which had me concerned. Worry not, this is what I’ve been looking for. For me, I’d say that it’s about 4-5 stronger than a Tour Solid. Both balls have 5-inch pins, but the Tour Solid has a longer pin buffer (4 inches).

Was able to roll it, play the track, move right and back my hand out of it all with success. When I can do that many things with a ball, I’d expect it will appeal to a wide variety of bowlers. If you’re looking to add a new benchmark type reaction to your bag, I don’t think you’ll go wrong with this one.

I’m pleased to say this one is a home run from Global.

Brian Eger

bowlstorm3

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #7 on: August 12, 2023, 12:51:07 PM »
900 Global XPonent
Coverstock: Reserve Blend 701 Solid Reactive
Core: Shrapnel 2.0
Factory Finish: 4000 Abralon
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2

The XPonent is 900 Global’s new 700 series benchmark ball. The core of the XPonent is the Shrapnel 2.0 Symmetric Core, which was used in one of my past favorites, the Ordnance C4. The core is meant to rev up quickly and provide an even, controlled look. The video is shot on a fresh 39 ft Mike Aulby PBA pattern which had ample hook near the gutter and little hold inside. I was able to start a bit right with the XPonent and chase it left as the lane opened up. My compare balls were the 900 Global Eternity, which is the step up shiny asymmetrical ball in the line and the Storm Summit which is the super strong symmetrical on the Storm side. As expected, the shiny Eternity provided a good look but was a bit more touchy and angular. The Summit did not look too good in comparison because the cover was too early causing it to flatten out too much on the backend unless the shot was totally aced.

Everyone needs a good benchmark ball in their bag. If you are in the market for a controllable/dependable ball, give this XPonent a look.

YouTube Video Link: https://youtu.be/7ysIvuksKDk

jshoe97

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #8 on: August 13, 2023, 12:43:49 PM »
The Xponent features the Shrapnel 2.0 core wrapped in the reserve 701 solid cover. The Xponent screams benchmark. This is going to be a fantastic piece that can be first out of your bag to give you a read on the lanes. The !Q Tour solid had been this ball for years but with the increase in volumes on the lanes, the !Q has fallen down a couple spots in the bag. I’ve been able to throw the Xponent when I need a smoother option on medium conditions and it’s been a great ball down from my Summit.

Review Video: https://youtu.be/Lu_N0xPw5jo

Ben Lapointe

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #9 on: August 14, 2023, 08:39:23 AM »
Ben Lapointe
PAP: 1 1/4'' up and 4 7/8'' over
Layout: 5.25 x 4.25 x 3

The new 900 Global Xponent. This ball is the next installment in the 700 performance line. For me, I have found this ball to be excellent from further to the right out of box, with plenty of versatility with hand and surface adjustments. After throwing this ball on a couple of different patterns and houses. I have found that for me, the new Xponent compliments my Storm Phaze 2 perfectly, giving me and earlier option for when the Phaze 2 is a little too clean. I see a ton of commonalities in this ball when comparing it to the original IDOL. A spot in the bag that I have been looking to fill since its discontinuation. I can see this ball being in the bag for a while. I would recommend this product to anyone looking to control the front part of the lane, while maintaining energy off the end of the pattern. Get yours July 28th and remember to bowl up a storm!!

DrewsiclexSPI

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #10 on: August 15, 2023, 01:16:08 AM »
The Xponent is the newest benchmark to the 900 Global line. The shrapnel 2.0 Symmetric Core which was previously used in the Ordinance C4 wrapped in the new Reserve Blend 701 solid cover gives the ultimate medium performance in the bag. The 4000 grit finish gives you decent length with a late mid lane read and decent continuation. It fits right between an IQ tour and Phaze 2. This will match up on a variety of house conditions and medium patterns. It blended friction very well for me and never over hooked. That’s exactly what you want out of a benchmark ball!
    Andrew Smith
    Storm Staff
    LH
    Rev rate 420+
    Speed 16.5

BRitch14

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #11 on: August 18, 2023, 07:44:45 AM »
Welcome back to the land of low RG solids! It's my favorite place. 900 Global appears to have hit another home run with the Xponent. Using the same core from the Ordnance C4 but around a solid coverstock with numbers of 2.48/.042 this ball will be the first out of the bag on many, if not all, conditions. I drilled mine 4.25 x 4.25 (PAP of 4.5 over and 1 up) putting the pin below my ring finger. People have different definitions of "benchmark ball" but to me that means stable, predictable motion and the ability to easily clarify when ball changes are needed. The Xponent accomplishes all of that. I practiced on a very well used house pattern and the Xponent surprisingly cleared the fronts pretty easily (though it does want to rev up pretty quick) but didn't boomerang off the dry. The motion was very round, very steady, and very predictable. I firmly believe this will be a great piece for any style bowler looking for that type of motion.

Brent Ritchie
Storm Pro Shop Staff Member

Chicago972

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #12 on: August 26, 2023, 11:47:13 AM »
The 900 Global Xponent has a low RG value of 2.48 a high differential of 0.042.
Benchmark Ball…. Benchmark Ball…. Benchmark Ball
900 Global came out with a Reserve Blend 701 Cover combined with the Shrapnel 2.0 Symmetric Core, the Xponent will be the first out of the bag ball to let you know if the Xponent is the right ball or if you will have to ball up or ball down.
The incredibly predictable Shrapnel 2.0 Symmetric Core is the exact same technology previously used in the Ordnance C4. This low RG/medium differential core will rev up quickly and produce a very even and continuous shape on the lane. With its single density construction, the baseline reaction this core creates will match up to a variety of styles across a broad spectrum of patterns.
Whether you have a super high rev rate or a super low rev rate, or a rev rate somewhere in the middle, this Low RG, High Differential, Symmetrical core produces a strong midlane roll and a very consistent backend reaction.
In comparison to the 900 Global Zen Gold Label, the Xponent is the poster child for a benchmark ball fits right in the middle of a Summit and the Zen Gold Label.  The Zen Gold Label will be the ball down to the Xponent providing that 1-2 punch on a house condition or on tour where you need a ball for the transition / burn.
In the bag, will be the Summit, Xponent, Zen Gold Label and Hustle RIP

StormRoto

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #13 on: August 29, 2023, 03:38:52 PM »
900 Global Xponent
Layout: 4.25 x 4 x 2 Storm Pin Buffer Layout
Rev Rate: 400 RPM, 17  axis tilt, MPH 16-17
Testing information: 42 foot THS (medium to light volume), Kegel Dick Weber
Bowling Center: Emerson Lanes Pike Street Lanes
Kegel Machine – Brunswick Pro Anvilane

The new 900 Global ball is the Xponent, comes with the Shrapnel 2.0 core is brought back in from the Ordnance series think C-4.  They added a new coverstock (Batch #701 solid reactive)  With the new coverstock I notice right away that the Xponent would be a very good benchmark ball.  Very controllable and stays online.  On the Dick Weber pattern where the fronts started to hook a little and the Summit was starting to bog down and flat 10. The Xponent was a perfect ball to go to.  It gave me the extra length I needed and energy at the pins.  Its a little on the slow side as far response wise, but still carries well.
On the house pattern when I kept the surface around 2000-3000 I could use it on the fresh and play a little further right with good success.  I can see this ball being a good ball on fresh to control the backs a little.  Or in the later blocks when you need something to stay online or a little more length than the bigger bowling balls. I have the Xponent above the IQ line, and below the Summit/Phaze 2. Great addition to the 900 Global Line!

Brian Watson
Storm Pro Shop Staff

TBenner300

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Re: Xponent Review
« Reply #14 on: August 30, 2023, 11:00:11 AM »
The new 900 Global Xponent features an all new 801 Reserve Solid coverstock with the Shrapnel 2.0 core which was last seen in the Ordinance C4.  At 15 pounds, the RG is 2.48 and the differential is .042.  When drilled at 5x4x2 (pin above the bridge) this ball reminds me of one of my all-time favorites from the past…the Dare Devil Trick.  The Xponent is the ultimate ‘benchmark’ ball.  It’s one of those type of balls that doesn’t hook the most, doesn’t have the strongest backend, but it just strikes A LOT!!!  The Xponent blends out the wet/dry, it doesn’t respond too quickly when you miss in the dry to soon, and it has enough teeth to handle the puddle in the middle of the lane.  This ball will be the first out of my bag every time.  If it isn’t the right ball, the reaction of the Xponent will show me which other ball I need to pull out of the bag.  The Xponent will get a lot of play, the only things it isn’t great on are the extremes…oil and dry, but for everything in between this ball is a winner!