BallReviews
Reviews => Brunswick => Topic started by: Ballreviews on February 11, 2015, 09:16:47 AM
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Brunswick Mastermind Scholar Ball Specs:
- Color: Blue, Silver, & Gold Pearl All colors do vary somewhat from the picture shown.
- Core: Mastermind Ultra Low RG (14#-16#)
- Coverstock: Honor Roll A+ Pearl Reactive
- Factory Finish: 500 Siaair Micro Pad; Royal Compound , Royal Shine
- Reaction: Flip
- Radius of Gyration (RG): 2.540**
- Differential (Diff): 0.052**
- ** RG and Diff are based off of 15 lb. balls
- Hook Potential: 220 (scale 10-250)
- Length: 135 (scale 25-235)
- Breakpoint Shape: Angular
- Recommended Lane Condition: Medium-Heavy Oil
- A few tiny pit holes in the cover stock of the ball are normal
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I have my Scholar drilled 45 x 5 x 30 which is the length and backend drilling from the Brunswick asymmetric layouts sheet. This ball is so easy through the heads and retains a ton of energy for the backend. It makes a strong angular motion to the pocket and hits extremely hard.
For me this ball falls between the Mastermind Intellect and either the Genius or the Fortera Intrigue. I have the same amount of hook with the Genius and the Intrigue just a different motion. My Intrigue goes a little longer than my Genius and a little more angular. With the Scholar I am 2-3 boards left of the Intrigue throwing it out to the same spot maybe even a little farther right and crushing the pocket. Backend is strong making the pins really fly.
Sometimes when you get a pearl ball this strong you can get a lot of over/under reaction. Not with this ball. It doesn't miss it's turning point. It reacts so good, so predictable. I love this ball and so will you.
Jim Varno
Brunswick Regional Staff
** "This review is my opinion and does not necessarily reflect that of the Brunswick Corporation."
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LANE CONDITION
USBC Blue
Length:39'
COMMENTS
Drilled pin up using 45 x 5 x 30 layout. First game out of the box 258 with this ball. Really continues well through the pins.
I don't have a lot of ball speed and I was able to get this through the midlane to the breakpoint pretty easily. I was very impressed with how it reads the spot and reacts. Definitely a different shape than an Intellect and therefore complements it very well.
I would stick to using this ball on medium volume patterns unless you apply some surface. This first attempt at a pearl ball in the Mastermind line is definitely worth a look.
Jeff Poholsky
Brunswick Advisory Staff
The opinions above are mine and not those of Brunswick Corporation.
Likes: Easy to get the ball down lane. Hitting power
Dislikes: None yet
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LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
My video for the Brunswick Mastermind Scholar.I hope you like it.And it's helpful.
http://www.bowlwithbrunswick.com/balls/detail/mastermind-scholar/ (http://www.bowlwithbrunswick.com/balls/detail/mastermind-scholar/)
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I laid out the Mastermind Scholar with a 60X5.5X40 layout. This is usually my choice layout on asymetrical’s. Again Brunswick leans towards length and strong backend with this ball, and those that like that shape won’t be disappointed. On a THS fresh, this ball was very long at the center I manage which is a higher volume 42 foot pattern. With a box surface it was too long going left to right. I scratched it with 3000 and it looked much better. I don’t think this ball will be the first ball out of my bag, but it will see plenty of time once the heads break down just a little bit. I wouldn’t define this ball as angular off the spot, as I do see the weight block still stand up before it makes its move, but the ball is plenty strong from the breakpoint to the pins. For me the ball is 2 ft cleaner than a Genius, and easily an arrow stronger off the break point.
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 41
Type THS
COMMENTS
The Mastermind Scholar is the strongest pearl I have ever thrown. I drilled this ball 55 x 5-1/2 x 40 and it reads the mid lane very hard, is very quick response and gets into a strong roll phase. I love throwing this ball right after my Thug Unruly when it starts o force me to far inside. They complement each other great. This is a wonderful house shot ball when playing recovery and wanting to create area.
Here is a video of the Scholar and Rhino Pro is a surface comparison.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Bobby Benton
Maryland
Brunswick Mastermind Scholar (http://www.bowlwithbrunswick.com/balls/detail/mastermind-scholar/)
40 x 5 x 70 (OOB Surface)
Personal Stats:
400-450 RPM
18-20 MPH
PAP - 5 5/8" over, 1" up
Axis Tilt - Estimated 8-12 Degrees
http://youtu.be/XywVojKDWR4#t=1h12m50s (example)
Current League Average: 237
Sport Average: 210
Intended Use:
I drilled up the Mastermind Scholar with the intent of drilling a stronger ball that was clean up front with the pearl cover, but strong and smooth off the spot with the big core in this ball.
Reaction:
This ball is about 2-3 boards less than my Mastermind Genius, but much cleaner up front. The smoother layout keeps the ball from overreacting off the dry, but with my speed, I may need the knock the OOB polish off the ball for heavier volumes.
Overall:
First off, this ball has shelf appeal. I've gotten to throw it twice and heard nothing but how awesome it looks going down the lane with the blue/silver/gold coverstock. This will be a great piece for me when I want to get left and store energy for downlane motion while still controlling the spot. When the midlanes start to go, I can wait longer before having to implement loft and this clean cover won't overreact off the dry.
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LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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LANE CONDITION
Length:35, 41, 43
Volume: Sport and House
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:Brunswick Mastermind Scholar
The Scholar has an Ultra low rg core combined with a high differential making this ball one of the most aggressive and angular pearl bowling balls ever produced. The great thing about this ball is how easily it gets through the front part of the lane regardless of what happens to the heads. When it clears the pattern it has complete stored energy making a strong angular shape to the pocket. Do to its flipping power, this ball can recover from almost anywhere. You can use this ball on almost any pattern, its incredibly versatile allowing you to play multiple angles. With its an awesome color combination this ball looks awesome going down the lane. It looks even better as it penetrates the pins. This ball hits so hard which is a product of all the stored energy its able to sustain due to the cover and core combination.
I’ve drilled one 75 x 4 1/2 x 70. This is a pin down drilling. I wanted to create some versatility in my ball motion. If for some reason my pin above drilling (see below) is going to lane, I can easily switch to this ball to get the ball going sooner. The characteristics of this drilling has made the ball pick up soon, but looks like it has a heavy roll. When the ball clears the pattern it makes a hard aggressive arc to the pins. Then it has a continuous monition through the pins allowing for optimal carry. Since this ball stores so much energy you can still have a pin under drilling look very strong down lane. The Honor Roll A+ cover gets this ball through the fronts with ease. This can easily be the first ball out of the bag.
The second one I drilled 75 x 5 x 35 which is a pin above drilling. I tend to use this drilling on my more competitive sport conditions. By drilling the Scholar this way, I’m able to really get the ball down lane, when it clears the pattern, you can literally see the ball flip quickly and make an angular move to the pocket. I really love the forgiveness of this ball as well as the versatility of the Scholar. If you miss right, with its strong flipping characteristics this ball can recover from almost anywhere. The other perk, is if you tug it a bit into the longer part of the oil pattern, where with most balls you’d leave a flat 10 or 7 (left handers), this ball will react very strongly and punch those corner pins out.
Since the ball has so much stored energy, it hits the pins with strong continuous motion. Also with this potential energy your carry with this ball is amazing. It gives great versatility and forgiveness to every bowler. It is the most incredible pearl bowl I’ve ever thrown. My carry is amazing with this ball, this is a must for your bowling arsenal.
Please feel free to email me at troy_300_1999@yahoo.com with any questions.
Troy Schaefer
Brunswick Regional Staff Player
#bowlwithbruns #teamBrunswick
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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BALL SPECS
Pin Length:3
Starting Top Weight:2.8
Ball Weight:15
DRILL PATTERN
Pin to PAP:5
CG to PAP:4
X Hole (if there is one):
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate:390-410
Ball Speed:18-19
PAP/Track:5 right 1/2 up
SURFACE PREP
Grit:box
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded):
LANE CONDITION
Length:variety
Volume:variety
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS and sport
BALL REACTION
Length:great
Back End:great
Overall Hook:high
Midlane Read:clean through the middle-lane
Breakpoint Shape:all backend
COMMENTS
Likes:this ball allows you to let the ball go down lane with extreme ease. It then has an incredible response to the friction giving you and incredible move on the backend. When this ball hits he pins it makes a statement! Unbelievable carry!
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Layout #1 35 x 5 x 40
Layout #2 75 x 2 1/4 x 55 X-Hole P3
Bowling on the Sunset strip 50uL pattern, I start with Layout #1 which gives me a firm backend reaction. This ball works well for the first two games. I didn't have many higher rev players with me and the majority of the bowlers were in the track area. I tried moving in deeper but ended up with an over under reaction.
I moved back right where I started with #1 and tried layout #2. This put me right back into the pocket and finished off the night strong. #2 gives me a smoother transition midlane and controls the wet dry very well. This layout would also be good on shorter patterns where you need to control the backend.
I left the coverstock OOB. I also used #1 on Route 66 with a 50 uL pump. The Intellect was the preferred ball for this pattern, but I tightened up my angles and the Scholar still gave me a good look without crossing too many boards.
The carry is amazing and I have noticed that I will go three games before I leave any ten pins! 9 pins are more common ;)
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BALL SPECS
Pin Length: 3.5"
Starting Top Weight: 2.9 oz
Ball Weight: 15 lbs 4 oz
DRILL PATTERN
Ball: 60 x 4.5 x 35
X Hole (if there is one): none
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: 375 rpms
Ball Speed:17.5 mph
PAP/Track: 4 3/4 over 3/4 up
SURFACE PREP
Grit: Box Finish
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): box plus extra shine
LANE CONDITIONS
Lengths of patterns: 41 foot house shot
Volumes: moderate
Type: house
BALL REACTION
Length: Clean through the heads with a slight read in the midlane and a strong sharp backend
Back End: angular
Overall Hook: Strong
Midlane Read: minimal
Breakpoint Shape: Skid/Snap
COMMENTS
Likes: Superb recovery on oilier conditions after breakdown and overall angularity
Dislikes: none
The Mastermind Scholar is the latest addition to the the best high performance lineup in the industry. The Scholar is longer and stronger than the previously released Intellect while possessing the same ability to pick up consistently down lane. Throughout my testing the strong point of this ball was that it never missed the breakpoint. The backend reaction of the Mastermind Scholar is stronger and more angular that its predecessors. It gets very easy length and is the perfect ball once the Mastermind Intellect has started hooking too soon. I have it 3 and 1 weaker than a similarly drilled intellect with a stronger move down lane. Pin carry has been exceptional and I have left very few ten pins. If you are looking for a step down from the high performance oilier lane balls that will allow you to experience great backend recovery check out the Mastermind Scholar.
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BALL SPECS
Ball Weight: 16 Lbs
DRILL PATTERN
Dual Angle Layout: 75 x 5" x 35
X Hole (if there is one): none
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: Higher, between 370 and 410 rpm, aka Cranker
Ball Speed: 16.50 mph
PAP/Track: 5 3/8" over and 7/8" up with a high track
SURFACE PREP
Grit: Box - 500, royal compound, royal shine
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): Polished
LANE CONDITION
Length: Multiple
Volume: Multiple
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): Multiple
BALL REACTION
Length: 8 / 10
Back End: 8 / 10
Overall Hook: 8 / 10
Midlane Read: 7 / 10
Breakpoint Shape: Angular
COMMENTS
Likes: Compliments the Mastermind series with more of a skid / snap reaction
Dislikes: None
The Mastermind Scholar uses a pearl version of the Honor Roll A+ coverstock that was used in the Mastermind Intellect. This ball is a great compliment to the Mastermind Intellect because it will give you added length and that strong backend reaction. The Mastermind Scholar goes about 2 - 4 boards longer with a stronger snap downlane compared to the Mastermind Intellect. I can move in and throw it to the friction and it recovers every time. Even with my higher rev rate, the Mastermind series doesn't over hook and gives me a stronger ball motion for medium to heavier oil conditions. This ball looks great with the 3 bright colors of gold, silver, and blue. With my pin up drilling, it allows me to get that snap downlane when reaching the friction. If you are looking for a stronger ball with good length and strong snap downlane, the Mastermind Scholar won't disappoint.
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Ball Speed: 15mph
Rev Rate: 400rpm
Layout: 60x5.75x40 This puts the pin above my middle finger with the MB 1.5" right of my thumb
Reaction: This is by far my favorite Mastermind to date. It is cleaner through the fronts than any of the previous ones and corners better as well. The thing I like the most is that when it does get to the dry and wants to corner it doesn't jump or snap off that dry. It's very hard off of it but it retains energy to go through the pins much better. To me, it is a stronger version of the Exile that excels on longer or heavier patterns, where the Exile needs some dry boards.
I've used my Scholar a couple times in league and for a tournament on the 2014 Open Championships Team Pattern. It goes longer and corners harder than the other Masterminds. The more a pattern burns up and I'm forced inside the better the ball gets for me.
Nick Heilman
Brunswick Regional Staff
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Got a chance to throw the Mastermind Scholar and Gold Rhino Pro last night on the USBC Nationals Team pattern. The Scholar looked great on the fresh, the layout on this ball was 45/5.5/35. It gave me traction in the mid-lane with a predictable continuous backend motion. This ball is another home run in the Brunswick line. In my opinion, this is the most angular high end ball we have ever come out with.
The Gold Rhino Pro was what I threw later in the day. The layout is 50/5/95. It was definitely more overall hook than I anticipated. The Mastermind Scholar looked great on the fresh, Melee Jab looked good through the first transition and then the Gold Rhino Pro stole the show. When the front of the lane started to burn up and I had wiggle down lane this ball got through the front with ease and gave me all of the backend continuation I could ask for. I can see myself using this ball on everything.
What I am looking for when I compete Is an aggressive yet predictable shape as I migrate from bowling ball to bowling ball. Top to bottom, our line is fantastic, there are multiple balls for a variety of styles and our covers are as versatile as can be. Please trust me, go to your pro shop and give Brunswick a chance, you won't be disappointed. If there is anything I can do to help you decide which ball would suit you the best, just send me a message!
David O'Sullivan
Brunswick Pro Staff
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Length: 43 ft
Volume: 25ml
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
Drilled Pin under Bridge
Bowler:
Rev Rate: 500rpm
Ball Speed: 17mph
PAP: 4 5/8 over 1/2 up
Comments:
This has, by far, the most backend in the entire Mastermind series. It's very clean through the head and midlane, with a strong snap off the friction through the pins. I drilled this ball pin up over the ring finger, cg kicked out with a balance hole about 1/2 inch up off the midline on the VAL. I find that opening up my angles really works best for me, as this ball really packs a punch on the back end.
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LANE CONDITION
Length: Medium
Volume: Medium
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS, Sport & House
COMMENTS
The fourth installment in the tremendously successful Mastermind series. I instantly found that I liked this ball probably faster than I did any of the others. My favorite in this line is the original Mastermind and this Pearl makes a great complement. I see this right in between my Mastermind and Guru when I need to move left and open up the lane without giving up too much of the pocket. It has a very heavy roll which I find typical for any of the balls in the Mastermind series. I drilled mine 45 X 5 X 40, I get good length and a big move off the friction. It excels when there is some oil on the lane and, for a pearl, does not fall prey to over under on high ration oil patterns such as a house shot. Tournament bowlers are going to love this ball for transition and for some medium length patterns with volume.
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LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
THS
COMMENTS
Likes:Me personally, there were never too many high end brunswick balls that matched up well for me. I usually struggled with finish with them. My favorite high end brunswick ball was the ulti-max. Good through the front part of the lane, reads the body very well and has a strong back end motion. The Scholar shares all the same qualities as the ulti-max. Used in league for the first time last night. Only issue I had was a little carry once I had to move in deeper. Made the right hand position change and got the ball to face up nicely the rest of the night. Good option if this ball is hooking too much or maybe a little burn up reaction and having trouble carrying, would be the melee jab. Doesn't pick up in the middle lane as hard and has a strong motion down lane like the scholar. Layout used was 45x5-1/4x30.
Dislikes:
No dislikes. Very Satisfied with this ball
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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I have waited a long time for Brunswick to release a “true†pearl ball in their very successful hook line. With today’s house patterns, they never seem to have enough oil for the Mastermind or Intellect.
I decided to go with a long pin and drilled the Scholar 4 ¾ x 60. This puts the pin above my middle finger and the MB in my thumb. The ball motion did not disappoint! Within the first few shots I could defiantly see that the Scholar was longer and stronger than the Intellect. For me, when comparing to a similarly drilled Intellect, the Scholar would allow me to make a 3 and 1 move left and open up the lane more with the Scholar. One thing I noticed with the Scholar was the exceptional hitting power as the ball drove through the pins. To me the Scholar is one of the hardest hitting balls, Brunswick has created.
If you’re looking for go-to ball after the Mastermind and Intellect are too much, get you a Scholar.
Jason Jones
Brunswick Regional Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation.
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Ball - Brunswick Mastermind Scholar:
Ball Traits - Aggressive Pearl
What it will handle - Medium to Heavier Oil
My Impressions - With exception to easy length this ball doesn't know it's a pearl. Big mover here.
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Mastermind Scholar
Customer tested since I am recovering from surgery..
BALL SPECS
Pin Length: 3 Inches
Starting Top Weight:3.25 oz
Ball Weight:15 lbs
DRILL PATTERN
Dual Angle:60 x 5 x 30
X Hole (if there is one):P3
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate:400+
Ball Speed:17-18 Avg
PAP/Track:5< 1/4^
SURFACE PREP
Grit:Out of Box
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded):Polished
LANE CONDITION
Length:43ft on old wood
Volume:High Volume on High Friction
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS
BALL REACTION
Length:9 out of 10
Back End:9 out of 10
Overall Hook:7 out of 10
Midlane Read:7 out of 10
Breakpoint Shape:10 out of 10
COMMENTS
Likes: This ball is by far the best looking ball I have ever seen from Brunswick which is the bonus. Reaction wise....What a ball... An amazingly clean ball for an assymetrical with a more continuous backend charge than you would expect from a Brunswick Assymetrical. The ball really returns from anywhere as long as there is a hint of friction. Ball compliments the Mastermind line perfectly!!
Dislikes: I really haven't seen anything bad about this ball. A real winner in the Big B line!
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LANE CONDITION
Length:42ft
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):house
COMMENTS
Likes:smooth through the front of lane hard off the back. i like it better after 10 games and the shine burned a little. works great for me on medium to heavy oil.
Dislikes: no complaints yet.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Testing Done on Kegel Middle Road Pattern 39'
The Mastermind Scholar is by far the longest and strongest ball in the Mastermind series. This ball is extremely clean through the front part of the lane. It never misses the spot down-lane as it reads the mid-lane really strong with a very continuous motion on the back part of the lane. I can throw this ball further right than any of the other balls in this series because of how much it backends. It is a great compliment to the Genius when that ball starts to get too early and isn’t coming around the corner hard enough. Get yourself one at your local pro shop. The ball has a $20 instant rebate which is a ton of ball for the money, you won’t be disappointed.
Greg
Greensburg, PA
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 41'
Volume: ~24 units
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
Likes: The first thing I like about this ball without even putting holes in it is the shelf appeal. The bright silver and gold with a very unique true blue color stands out from any other ball on the market.
Once I drilled this ball with a 50 x 4 3/4" x 70 layout, which puts it below my ring finger with the mass bias kicked out to my VAL, the motion of this ball was astounding. Being a slightly speed dominate player I used this layout to prevent any over skid I might have by putting it pin up (I do this layout with all pearl balls on the first drill). This ball stored a lot of energy for an asymmetric ball with this layout and gave me a strong but predictable read off the back of the pattern. With its heavy pearl cover stock it slid effortlessly through the heads and with my layout read the mids but never checked in the midlane and came off the backend with a strong motion toward the pocket each and every shot. This will be a great ball for my arsenal for when the lanes begin to burn up in the heads or when my Radical Guru isn't seeing enough oil.
Jon Van Dyke
Brunswick staff
*The opinions expressed in this review are those of the author and do not reflect those of Brunswick Corporation*
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 47
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): Sport Pattern. (WTBA - Paris)
COMMENTS
I threw the Mastermind Scholar for the first time last night on the WTBA Paris, went 257, 300, 256 for 813. This ball is really impressive, the whole Mastermind series is pretty impressive. This ball has a lot of backend motion, but also pretty predictable. I drilled pin over my ring finger and the CG near my VAL line. Hopefully I can see this ball in my collegiate arsenal.
#Brunswick
#FresnoStateBulldogs
- Riely Chin
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LANE CONDITION
Length:42
Volume:23.15
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
Likes: looks
Angular motion
Clean through the heads
Dislikes: Heavy oil, and very short patterns kill this ball for me
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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I drilled my Mastermind Scholar with the pin in the middle finger, mass bias kicked out With a small hole down. I was a little skeptical of this piece at first due to how hard it reacted to friction and how straight it went in the oil. But after a few games and touching it lightly by hand with a 1000 grit siaair pad, the scholar read the midlane much better but still had the hard reaction off of the friction and continued through the pins better than it had with a fresh cover. Even after touching with a 1000 grit pad, the Scholar still cleared the front part of the lane with ease. I view the Scholar as the biggest hooking pearl produced to date by Brunswick.
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LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:Brunswick Mastermind Scholar
The Scholar has an Ultra low rg core combined with a high differential making this ball one of the most aggressive and angular pearl bowling balls ever produced. The great thing about this ball is how easily it gets through the front part of the lane regardless of what happens to the heads. When it clears the pattern it has complete stored energy making a strong angular shape to the pocket. Do to its flipping power, this ball can recover from almost anywhere. You can use this ball on almost any pattern, its incredibly versatile allowing you to play multiple angles. With its an awesome color combination this ball looks awesome going down the lane. It looks even better as it penetrates the pins. This ball hits so hard which is a product of all the stored energy its able to sustain due to the cover and core combination.
I’ve drilled one 75 x 4 1/2 x 70. This is a pin down drilling. I wanted to create some versatility in my ball motion. If for some reason my pin above drilling (see below) is going to lane, I can easily switch to this ball to get the ball going sooner. The characteristics of this drilling has made the ball pick up soon, but looks like it has a heavy roll. When the ball clears the pattern it makes a hard aggressive arc to the pins. Then it has a continuous monition through the pins allowing for optimal carry. Since this ball stores so much energy you can still have a pin under drilling look very strong down lane. The Honor Roll A+ cover gets this ball through the fronts with ease. This can easily be the first ball out of the bag.
The second one I drilled 75 x 5 x 35 which is a pin above drilling. I tend to use this drilling on my more competitive sport conditions. By drilling the Scholar this way, I’m able to really get the ball down lane, when it clears the pattern, you can literally see the ball flip quickly and make an angular move to the pocket. I really love the forgiveness of this ball as well as the versatility of the Scholar. If you miss right, with its strong flipping characteristics this ball can recover from almost anywhere. The other perk, is if you tug it a bit into the longer part of the oil pattern, where with most balls you’d leave a flat 10 or 7 (left handers), this ball will react very strongly and punch those corner pins out.
Since the ball has so much stored energy, it hits the pins with strong continuous motion. Also with this potential energy your carry with this ball is amazing. It gives great versatility and forgiveness to every bowler. It is the most incredible pearl bowl I’ve ever thrown. My carry is amazing with this ball, this is a must for your bowling arsenal.
Please feel free to email me at troy_300_1999@yahoo.com with any questions.
Troy Schaefer
Brunswick Regional Staff Player
#bowlwithbruns #teamBrunswick
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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DRILL PATTERN
Layout 35x5x35
X Hole: None
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: 400
Ball Speed: 18
PAP/Track: 5-1/8rt, 1/2 up
SURFACE PREP
Grit: Box
Type: Shiny
LANE CONDITION
Length: 40
Volume: medium-heavy
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
BALL REACTION
Length: 9.5/10
Back End: 9.5/10
Overall Hook: 8/10
Midlane Read: 7/10
Breakpoint Shape: Sharp
COMMENTS
First thing I really liked about this ball was the color scheme. Man does it pop! Looks even better going down the lane. In addition to it's great looks, this ball absolutely does not stop on the backend.
This ball is a high end asymmetric pearl that actually gives that "pearl" shape you expect to see when you grab it off the rack. Glides through the fronts and just explodes on the backend. I was confident the Scholar was gonna have such great length, I opted to go with a smaller drill angle than typical to help the ball pick up the midlane a little bit. I expected it to sacrifice some of the backend but surprisingly this ball still makes a extremely strong move down lane.
On a fresh oil THS, I have this ball about 4-5 weaker than my Mastermind Intellect, 2-3 weaker than my Genius, and in both cases a fair amount of added length with sharper breakpoint. Really a great addition to the line. This ball works best for me playing in as it has such a quick response to friction. Playing up the lane can create some unpredictable results as the ball is quite angular. If I were to decide to use a ball like this playing out, I would utilize a different layout and/or surface preparation to play that type of line. On the other hand, if I was a lower rev player that struggles to create angle even when playing up the lane, this ball would definitely fit the bill.
Overall, I just really enjoy throwing this ball. It looks great and has the motion to back it up!
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Layout: <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/z4e9tqe3czhtcz5/%282015-02%29%20Mastermind%20Scholar%20%2865%20x%205.125%20x%2025%29.jpg?dl=0">65° x 5 1/8†x 35°</a>
This ball has been pretty impressive since putting holes into the ball. I say it everytime a new Brunswick ball comes out, but every time a new set of balls come out, the way they go through the pins just keeps getting better and better. When this ball begins to makes its turn towards the pocket, I have very little fear that it won’t knock down all 10 pins. This ball is very forgiving. When missing out, it turns the corner hard. When missing in, it lays off and doesn’t ring a corner pin.
I’ve compared this ball to both my Mastermind Genius and Intellect. When the Intellect begins to face up a little early, I feel like I can immediately switch to the Scholar and not need to make a move. Compared to the Genius, to me, this is an improved version of the Genius. Where I would have to move a little out when balling down from the Intellect, I don’t have to now. The Scholar just reads the spot a lot better than the Genius. When the Scholar begins to be a little too jumpy, I feel like the Genius can blend out the pattern better.
--The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation--
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BRUNSWICK MASTERMIND SCHOLAR REVIEW
James Goulding III
Brunswick Ball Tester
Left Handed
350 RPM
PAP: 4 3/8†x 0â€
17* Tilt
18.0 – 18.5 MPH
Brunswick Mastermind Scholar
Layout: 45* x 4†x 20*, pin up and left of ring finger
X-hole: None
Review:
41ft. House Pattern, Medium-Heavy Blend
I drilled the Mastermind Scholar to be a longer, more violent version of the Mastermind Intellect, and that’s exactly what I got. Using this ball on fresh THS is almost like cheating; it creates that much area and down lane “miss roomâ€. Being on the left side, I am able to play straighter with more aggressive equipment, which is why the Scholar was a perfect fit for my game. My first three game set was a 782 with games of 258, 259, 265. The ball reaction is very clean through the heads and mid lane, gives a strong heavy roll into the pocket, and something new to my Brunswick arsenal, a “hockey stick†look off the back of the oil pattern. I believe the combination of the strong motor of the Scholar core, as well as the pearl cover stock, both allow this ball to attain that “hockey stick†type of hook. As far as comparison to other equipment, I played 3 boards further left with my feet, and 2 boards further left with my eyes than with the Mastermind Intellect with a similar layout. I was also about 4 boards further right with my feet with the same target at the arrows as my Melee Jab, showing just how much stronger the Scholar really is than the Melee Jab. If you’re looking for a long and strong ball in your lineup that will fill the hole perfectly, then pick up a Mastermind Scholar.
Team USA Mexico City Oil Pattern
I was curious how the Mastermind Scholar would handle the longer oil pattern (45ft.) that Mexico City lays down, and was actually pleasantly surprised with the results. With a 4†pin over and left layout, the Scholar starts its move early enough to give a true readable reaction on this oil pattern. Carry percentage was the only issue on this pattern when it was fresh, but after throwing a few games, and breaking down the pattern, the Scholar really shined. It’s a perfect compliment to the original Mastermind and Mastermind Intellect, which both worked great on Mexico City until they broke down, and then I could move right to the Scholar and pick up where the original Mastermind left off, playing a similar part of the lane. On this pattern, I played 3 boards further left with my feet and 2 boards further left with my target than the original Mastermind. Also, I was 4 boards further right and 1 board further right with my target than I was with the Melee Jab on Mexico City.
Team USA Los Angeles Oil Pattern
The Team USA Los Angeles oil pattern is a 36ft. pattern, which was a great test to see how the Mastermind Scholar would react to the shorter length, and it really shined on the fresh oil. I was able to start left, placing the ball down around 12, catching my break point at the 4 board down lane, and the ball reaction was incredible. Even as I had to move inside as the oil pattern wore down, I was still able to get tremendous pin carry, which is something that many balls struggle with as you increase the angle off of your hand. The shorter VAL angle really allows this ball to come off the back of the pattern with a tremendous amount of energy. I was able to play much straighter and further outside than I could with my Mastermind Intellect on this shorter oil pattern, and having that pearl cover stock really makes a huge difference, especially on these types of shorter oil patterns. I played 5 further left with my feet and 4 further left with my target than the Mastermind Intellect, and I was able to play 3 further right with my feet and the same target as the Melee Jab. Overall, I was very pleased with how the Scholar held up on this shorter pattern, and it will be the ball I start with going forward, and if they break down I can go to my Melee Jab and then the Strike King when they really break down.
Overall Impression
I would say that overall the Mastermind Scholar is a must own for any bowler looking to add a ball that can get down lane and have a very aggressive move to the pocket. The cover stock is very surface adjustment friendly, so don’t be afraid to sand or polish the cover stock to your liking. This ball fits perfectly between the Mastermind Intellect (very aggressive) and the Melee Jab (medium oil monster) in my arsenal, and it will be in my bag for a long time. If you’re a one day a week bowler, this ball will help get you the most bang for your buck, as the pearl cover will maximize the amount of length and backend reaction from one ball. Also, if you’re the serious, competitive bowler such as me, then this ball HAS to be in your bag at all times. I can’t wait to use it on an even wider variety of tournament conditions and see this ball shine. If you’re looking for your next long and strong ball, or looking to fill that gap between the early, super aggressive stuff and the milder reacting balls, check out the Brunswick Mastermind Scholar, you’ll be glad you did!
James Goulding III
Brunswick Ball Tester
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I laid my Scholar out 65x5x40. For those of you that think Brunswick balls roll at your feet and don't hook down lane should probally try this one. This ball is super clean and strong off the spot, house shot killer! I also see myself using this ball a lot when the heads go away and you need a ball that will still finish this is the one. The colors on this ball are also unbelievable and looks really cool going down the lane.
Perry Goldman
SW Florida
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PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
Length: 41 ft
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS
DRILL PATTERN
Dual Angle: 55x4x35
and 60x5x70
X Hole: p1 on pin up p3 on pin down
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: 350 - 375
Ball Speed: 16-17 mph
PAP/Track: 5.5 Right 1 up
SURFACE PREP
Grit: Box Finish
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): Polished
I drilled my first scholar pin up 55x4x35 the same as i drilled my genius. The scholar with its Honor Roll A+ Pearl cover glides through the heads with ease compared to my genius. I love my genius but it does tend to burn up a bit on me and the scholar was the perfect ball to combat that. Even with a 4 inch pin the ball still gets through the heads cleanly and makes nice hard turn in the back end of the lane. It never quits and the carry is tremendous from this ball. Its great for Ths shot because of its ability to store energy even with lighter volume outside and give guys with less hand more pop off the friction. I highly recommend this ball to anyone of any style.
I drilled my second Scholar pin down for sport shot conditions. I went 60x5x70 on it with a p3 hole. This ball is unbelievable. Its the first ball out of my bag every night or day of bowling. It gets through fronts easy and really controls the mids well for a pearl ball. I get a great arcing motion in the back even on heavier patterns and it has great continuation. With box surface and five inch pin it might be too flippy for flatter patterns so you might have to hit it lightly with surface. So far i haven't had that problem at all. If you don't have a Scholar yet your prob gonna lose to someone who does. Your bag is not complete without this piece.
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LANE CONDITION
Length:41ft
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS
COMMENTS
Likes:Besides the awesome look the Scholar revs up a ton down the lane. 4" pin above the ring finger gets through the heads clean with great backend. If i miss out the ball recovers with plenty of energy left and when i miss in it slides through the oil and has enough power to make the turn and plow 10 pins back. The Mastermind line is the best line out there.
Dislikes:not yet!!!
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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BALL SPECS
Ball Weight: 15 lbs
DRILL PATTERN
Dual Angle: 40 x 5" x 35
X Hole (if there is one): Yes
BOWLER STYLE
Rev Rate: Medium , between 250-275 rpm
Ball Speed: 17-18 mph
PAP/Track: 5 1/2" over and 1/2" down
SURFACE PREP
Grit: Box Finish
Type: (Matte, Polish, Sanded): Polished
COMMENTS
The Mastermind Scholar is a very strong polished version of the original Mastermind. It provides great length through heads and picks up a strong roll in the midlane with a strong angular motion like the Mastermind. I drilled mine with the same layout as my Mastermind to give me that 1-2 punch combo as a 2 ball transition set. The Mastermind Scholar is a great ball added to the Mastermind line and a must have.
Charles Withers II
Brunswick Advisory Staff
The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer and not of Brunswick Corporation.
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LANE CONDITION
Length:40 ft
Volume
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:The Brunswick Mastermind Scholar has far exceeded my expectations, I am a low to med rev bowler with 16 deg of axis tilt and ball speed of 14.5 mph
drilled this ball with pin beside the finger 60 x 3 3/4 x 40 layout, ball clears the fronts as well as anything I have ever thrown, gets the length that I require while most importantly giving me the angular motion that I require with well above my expectations on carry so much so that I have drilled a second one
Dislikes:absolutely NONE
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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:) :)LANE CONDITION
Length:40
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:Drilled a second Scholar to complement my other, drilled this one with pin down
with a 55x3 3/4 x 35 layout and have surfaced at 3000, this has now been my go to ball, works very well for me in med to heavy oil situations and like my other Scholar, all three phases of the transition,skid,hook and roll complements my game. Carry % exceeds all my expectations. Nothing better on this planet for my game than Brunswick
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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– Drilled 40 x 3.5 x 35
One of my favorite Masterminds! The pearl allows this ball to get through the pattern with little issues, when it catches the dry, be in the right area/angle as it will turn and keep going right through the pin deck. The surface is versatile enough to adjust if you need it to read the lane sooner.
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LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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I love my Einstein so much that I quickly ordered a Scholar. Unfortunately, the ball that arrived had a 5"+ pin so I laid the ball out 55x5.5x35 (pin way up) and decided that it would be a gap filler for when I need angle. This ball hits the corner like nothing else in my arsenal and as a result has been a love/hate ball in my bag. The tremendous backend impresses my team mates who love seeing the ball hook on the backend and throw messengers, but is usually too much angle to maximize my score. When it comes to balls that create this much angle, any pattern with strong backends makes it too sharp to ever make contact with the 9 pin, while wet/dry or flat patterns make it too touchy at the breakpoint.
Although I have thrown this ball at inopportune times, when I have had the right match up it has made strange conditions look easy. I have liked what I have seen on burn from inside 5 arrow on 45' Route 66 in my challenge league, but by far the best look I have had was at an old house which covered their blackened wood lanes with a temporary piece of purple plastic coating called lane shield. Even on their house shot, it is difficult to project the ball through the fronts, let alone corner enough to not flat 10. The Scholar is the one ball which allows me to open up my angles and give me enough downlane shape to not move the pins.
As far as reaction, it is more sensitive to wet/dry than the Brainiac and in between the Vandal and Einstein in terms of overall hook. With its very strong response to friction and aggressive down lane move, I would recommend this ball for bowlers looking for help creating angle down the lane. The weaker cover (in comparison to Brunswick's other high end balls) makes it a better match for medium volumes of oil and allows the ball to hold line on patterns where some of the help has been burnt out. Although the Scholar is a ball that due to my natural stylistic match up of higher revs/spin doesn't get much playtime in my hands, bowlers with heavier rolls on older surfaces and wood will love this ball!