BallReviews
Reviews => Roto Grip => Topic started by: BallReviews-scodaddy21 on May 02, 2023, 09:27:48 AM
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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: 43'
Volume: 22.5 mLs
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
Likes: Best release of the year!
Dislikes: Nothing!
I am so excited about this ball! This is probably my favorite release of this year, for so many reasons! First of all Stef and Shannon have put their heart and souls into this ball and it’s a dream come true for them. Secondly the fact that they teamed up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to give back is such a noble gesture. Lastly the performance of this ball is AMAZING!
This ball has the same cover as the Exotic Gem and a core similar to the famous DareDevil line. The DareDevil line was one of my favorites of all time! The Black and Bright Green color not only pops as it goes down lane but its also my wedding colors :)
Performance wise, this ball actually is very close to the Zen but with a little more pop off the spot. This actually makes it more useable than the Zen, for me.
The new factory polish has been a topic of discussion for a while but the surface prep for this one is perfect. I’m ready to get to the lanes and get to using this ball in competition!
My layout is 5x4x2
Balls getting a lot of play
Infinite Physix: 5x4x2
Eternity: 5x4x2
Phaze4: 5x4x2
Fate: 5x4x2
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 40
Volume: 20ml
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS and Marshall Holman Oil Pattern
COMMENTS
I love this ball so far! Its one of the smoothest yet controllable balls I've ever thrown. Even though it's smooth, it never seems to die out and be lazy downlane. You get a good amount of traction in the mid lane without sacrificing any motion down lane. It's easily become a staple in the bag in the short week ive thrown it. I shot 288 FRESH out of box!
Its very comparable to the zen, just a little bit earlier for me. But the same shape, a little more traction and shape, just as versatile, and just as good! Zen ball was good and i think the Duo is gonna be one of those great balls too! It's a step down from the exotic gem and infinite physix, but still a step above something like a IQ Tour Solid or IQ tour Ruby. I dont say must haves very often but this ball might fall in that territory.
Layout: 50x5x50
Two hander no thumb
425 rev rate, 15-16 average speed
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1st off I want to say Roto Grip is in partnership with Big Brother Big Sisters, and donating 5% of its sales to them. How great is that?! Now performance wise, I was pretty amazed. It rolled very well. Some people are different, no one is the same. For me...I had to hit it with a 3000 pad to calm the back end snap down. Then it read the mid lane reaction a little better also. In my eyes, It almost reacted on the back end like a 900 Global Zen. I love the new Mentor core! rolls for me very well, especially on sport patterns. Its very easy to read mid lane. Then with the Microtrax Pearl Cover stock, this ball is in my bag!
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Roto Grip Duo – WWRD 5/19/23
Cover: Micro Trax Pearl Reactive
Core: Mentor Symmetric
RG: 2.49
RG. Diff.: 0.05+
Finish: Reacta Gloss
Roto Grip’s new Duo is a Pearl Symmetrical piece that is good for Medium Oil conditions. PAP is 5 5/16 R 1 3/16 Up. Rev Rate: 400. Speed: 16.5. Drilled this piece with the Pin up between the fingers with the CG kicked out 2†from the palm. Out of Box ball motion started a little early in the mids with a smooth backend reaction. I changed the Surface to 3000 Abralon and was a similar motion through the fronts with a little more on the backend. I compared this piece to the Roto Grip Idol Cosmos and Storm Fate. Idol Cosmos was a few weaker than the Duo. The Storm Fate is 2-2 Stronger than the Duo. Fate has a cleaner shape through the front with a sharper backend. This piece will be in my bag cause of the versatility it will bring on tournament patterns. Plus, 5% of all sales will be supporting the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America.
Check Out the Ball motion Video on my YouTube Page:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCI1YD-54pwPGHG4MGrYQjFw
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We have a new ball plugging the gap in our arsenals with the new Duo from Roto Grip. This ball is a perfect benchmark pearl for those medium to heavier oil conditions. A step up from both the Zen and IQ Ruby yet a step down from our Exotic Gem.
Out of the box I found the cover to be clean through the fronts and smooth off the backend. When I hit it with 2000 the ball picked up much sooner conspicuously yet it angled a lot better than when I had it out of the box. When the higher end asyms or solid syms become too much the Duo will be a great ball to jump into. We have not seen a ball like this since the Idol pearl and Axiom pearl. The shape that the Duo provides is extremely user friendly and will provide tons of margin on today's conditions. The ball is very forgiving and should match up to many bowling styles.
I believe this ball will be very adaptable to different lane conditions from sport to house.
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 40 ft
Volume: Medium
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
Likes: Dual Angle Layout: 55 x 4 ½ x 25
Pin Buffer Layout: 4 ½ x 4 ½ x 1 5/8
Dare I say this is the Zen 2.0? I put the same layout on the Duo as I did my original Zen and if it was not for the awesome color scheme I would not be able to tell the difference. This ball is clean through the heads, picks up nicely in the mid lane, and really pops off the end of the pattern. Plus 5% goes to the Big Brother Big Sisters, I’ll take a 2nd one for sure.
Dislikes: That I have not ordered a 2nd one yet.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Duo • Roto Grip •HP3
Core • Mentor Core (Symmetrical)
Coverstock • MicroTrax Pearl reactive • Finish Reacta Gloss
Weight • 15 lbs. RG • 2.49 Differential • .046
Layout •4 x 4 x 2 ¼
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
Are they helping the next generation? Roto Grip is doing precisely that with their release of the Duo. Partnered with Big Brothers and Big Sisters, your Duo purchase will not only be helping the next generation, but your Duo will also bring a smile back to your A game! You will love it, especially if you are a down-and-in player like me! So, let's take a closer look at what makes the Duo worth the purchase!
The Mentor Core is at the heart of the Duo's success. I like how the Mentor Core's symmetrical "mushroom" look produces a smooth and robust rev'ing motion later in the mid-lane versus rev'ing too early upfront, causing it to lose all its gusto down the lane. And if you're a straighter player like me, you will love the results of the puck block added to the bottom of the Mentor Core. The puck block helps the Mentor Core stand up later as it makes its turn off the pattern. And because it doesn't overreact when it finds friction, the Mentor Core creates a dependable margin of error the Duo can recover from while still maintaining a strong continuation through the pins. So, if you're a down-and-in player who likes to play right of the second arrow, then the Mentor Core was made for your game!
The MicroTrax Pearl Reactive Coverstock gives the Duo an excellent appeal. However, I am a proponent of the correct surface to match the bowler. So, I tweaked the surface of my Duo to 1000-Grit Abralon and followed that up with Storm Step # 2 compound for my straighter, rev-challenged hand. And this surface combination brought my A game to a fun and high-scoring bowling night. I liked how the MicroTrax Pearl had strong traction in the mid-lane but still allowed the Duo to retain a lot of energy off the pattern. And as the night went on, I liked how the MicroTrax Pearl smoothly blended the over/under conditions that developed throughout the night without losing its crisp turn-off pattern. And lastly, the MicroTrax Pearl allowed me to stay in my comfort zone all night as it gave me the confidence to play right of everyone else!
In conclusion, Roto Grip has produced a winning release with the Duo. The Duo is a predictable and consistent powerhouse for my straighter and more classic game. So, I highly recommend the Duo to any down-and-in, low-rev bowler looking to boost their game. And what better way to improve your game than by helping the Big Brother, Big Sister Organization make a difference to our next generation with the purchase of your Roto Grip Duo! So, stop into your local Storm VIP Pro Shop today and see how everybody wins with the purchase of Roto Grip Duo!
Rick Klimowicz
Storm Products Pro Shop Staff
Roll the Ball Pro Shop
Penndel, PA
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 41
Volume: 28.5
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
The Duo is a a collaboration between Roto Grip, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Shafani Duo. The all new Mentor Core (named after those who are Big Brothers/Sisters) is wrapped in MicroTrax Pearl coverstock that has been featured as recent on the Exotic Gem. I drilled by Duo 4.75x4x4 2LS to help me get a consistent roll off the spot and see a strong smooth reaction. I have this same layout on my Fate and my Phase V, and I see 3 very different shapes of ball reaction. The Duo is considerably more forward off the spot and reads the midlane the earliest out of the three. The Fate is the strongest and has a much more continuous backend motion. The Phaze V goes easily 3-4ft more down lane before it starts to pick up and drive towards the pocket.
The Duo is going to be filling the same spot in the bag as my Zen as it is quite possibly even more controllable. The Duo wants to pick up in the midlane a touch sooner than my Zen has in the past and is stronger on the backend. If you need something that is as good looking on the lane as it is off the lane, then the Duo is right for you. I will not often say that everyone needs a certain ball in their bag, but the Duo might just make that case for me. Visit your Local Storm VIP Proshop today to make a difference on and off the lanes with the Roto Grip Duo.
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Ball Specs:
Roto grip Duo
Coverstock Micro Trax Pearl Reactive
Symetric Mentor Core
Finish Reacta Gloss
Layout 4 x 4 x 1.5 Pin Buffer
Bowler Specs:
Right Hand. PAP 5†Over 1/2 up
Rev Rate 300. Tilt 20. Rotation 50.
Speed at release 17
Review:
This new Roto Grip Duo is SMOOTH! I had been hearing about the controllable motion of this ball but was unsure how much it would hook so we drilled one up and went to find out. The Duo borrows a mushroom shape type core from the popular Dare Devil Series constructed to deliver added forgiveness in the back part of the lane. The Duo also reads the mid lane well and not too early which is nice. This ball is a step down from the Exotic Gem in total hook. I would put this ball in the medium category in total hook and shape. The Duo carried light hits with power for a smooth back end type ball. I would say this would be a great ball when the Exotic is too strong or you need control on the back end of the lane. I will be drilling my second one up and add some surface to see how it rolls on higher volume. My guess is this would be a great plan for sport shot patterns. I feel higher rev rates will love the Duo.
As an added boost Storm will also be donating 5% of our sales to domestic distributors to aid in the development and support of children within the program. You can buy a great ball and give back at the same time.
Summary:
The Duo has a very nice smooth motion.
The Color is different and looks great.
Portions of the sales will help Big Brothers and Big Sisters!
Glenn Wendel
PBA Member
Storm Pro Shop Staff
gwendel@comcast.net
www.stormbowling.com
Video Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rB6TsD1VOBA
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Roto Grip
Duo
Coverstock: Micro Trax Pearl Reactive
Finish: Reacta Gloss
Core: Mentor Core
(14 pd)
RG: 2.53
Differential: 0.047
Layout: 5.5 x 4 x 4 - 2LS
Layout Extras: 2 1/8 Finger Depth, "X" - 4 1/2 D and 1 Inch Left
Tester: PAP 6 1/2 R, 1 1/4 D
Review:
The Duo reunites with the daredevil series from awhile back. The goal of the Duo is to provide a controlled reaction in a pearl coverstock. Previously, some pearls have created to much "hockey stick" reaction which can place a bowler at a disadvantageous position when balling down. The Duo quite nicely provides some forgiveness in the RG line.
For a pearl offering, the Duo provides a decent amount of length and smoother backend. I personally chose a 2LS layout of 5.5 x 4 x 4 to gain a touch more length and slightly more backend. The layout we chose on the Duo tested out nicely.
For me, the Duo oob pearl surface was perfectly fine. However, I tend to always lightly touch pearls with a 4K or 3K pad. Although not always needed, it is a personal preference of mine. The Duo felt comfortable and had great control off the spot and shots have been repeatable.
In comparison, the Cosmos is earlier and a tad smoother downlane. The Duo fits nicely if you need a touch more pop when the Cosmos starts getting a bit early as transition occurs. Having the Duo can be a great asset to be in a pearl that allows you to keep angles in front of you and control at the breakpoint. However, I do need to note my Cosmos is 15pd and my Duo is 14pd, so the numbers are a bit different when evaluating both balls. Also, don't forget when you purchase your Duo you are supporting Big Brothers and Big Sisters as well. Please be sure to visit your favorite pro shop today or https://youtube.com/channel/UC1VA-MgFBo9mIZde-G3T11A for more information.
Michael Slatky
900 Global Staff Member
York, PA
LANE CONDITION
Length:
Volume:
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):
COMMENTS
Likes:
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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Lane Condition
Length: 40
Volume: Medium
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
Comments
The New Duo from Roto Grip features the MicroTrax Pearl Coverstock and the Mentor Core. When it first went down the lane, I was amazed. It stores so much energy to make crazy angles downlane. I compared it to the Zen; The Zen was a little earlier and smoother down lane. They are definitely compliments to eachother. The Duo is a ball for everyone who likes that big hook downlane. Go get yours!
YouTube Review
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJdPzJ4qshM
Social Media
Click This Link Below For All Social Media :
https://linktr.ee/ethanfiore300
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Bowler Stats
Ethan Fiore
⭐PBA Member⭐Roto Grip Staff⭐CoolWick Staff⭐Tournament Director⭐
Right 2 Handed
Rev Rate: 500
Speed: 17.5
PAP: 4 1/8 up 7/8
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Roto Grip DUO:
Tech specs: New Mentor core / Micro Trax Pearl Reactive / Finished with Reacta Gloss
Layouts: 60 x 2 x 40 and 70 x 4 x 30
My take: Drilling the DUO with a layout I love in my Roto Grip Hyped Hybrids – YES – that is PURAL, and Hyped Pearl, the reaction I saw was earlier and stronger then what I was anticipating even on Pro Lane with a heavier volume house pattern, the motion in all three stages were quicker in response. Even if I got in really deep – nose bleed area for my lefties of my caliber of game, the flare amount look like it had a strong 4†pin drilling. So at the recommendation of Earl Burger at ABC North in Harrisburg, we layout and drilled my second DUO at 70 x 4 x 30 and what a difference that made. The 2nd DUO became more predictable for the conditions that I bowl on and gave me the “look†I was hoping for. The roll through the pins was AWESOME and my first 5 games with the 2nd DUO were all 30 pins above my average. Anytime a ball can help you improve your average and game – its worth the investment. THE BEST thing about this ball is the purpose behind it – To raise awareness and money for Big Brothers / Big Sisters because a portion of EVERY DUO sold goes to them. Why not buy one or a DUO of them and improve your game and HELP OUT kids also – it is a WIN – WIN situation.
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DUO - Ball Specs
Color: Black/Electric Green
Cover Stock: Micro Trax Pearl Reactive
Finish: Reacta Gloss
Core: Mentor Core
RG: 2.49
Differential: 0.046
Review
Roto Grip is proud to announce its partnership & support of Big Brothers Big Sisters. With the assistance of our very own mentoring duo, “The Shafanie Duoâ€, we will not only be supporting BBBS at various events across the country, but we will also be donating 5% of our sales to domestic distributors to aid in the development and support of children within the program. So, if you are looking to make a difference both ON and OFF the lanes, then the DUO is the right choice for you.
The DUO is the newest ball in the Roto Grip HP3 line. Roto Grip has combined the mentor core wrapped with the Micro Trax Pearl cover. The DUO is a little cleaner than Idol Cosmos, which allows me to play further to the right and stroke the ball. The DUO reads the midlane well with a strong reaction on the backend. This ball will be great for the second to third game of league. This ball will be in my bag for league and tournaments. Order one from your local pro shop today! My ball review videos are posted on YouTube channel Stanley Waite.
Stanley Waite
900 Global Staff Member
Dover, DE
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Roto Grip Duo
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Core: Mentor
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 4 x 4 x 2
The Duo is Roto Grip’s new HP3 line release. First, it is important to note that 5% of the sales of the Duo will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters to aid in the development and support of children. HP3 is generally in the benchmark range of balls. In the Duo, we have the Exotic Gem coverstock (MicroTrax Pearl) and the Mentor core inspired from the Daredevil series from a while back. I do like my Exotic Gem, but sometimes the window of use is small for me because it is very strong and that leads to bad carry when it starts to stand up a bit too early. But, in the Duo we have a core with a larger zone of use that matches up well with the MicroTrax Pearl cover. I find the Duo to be the perfect transitional ball after the Exotic Gem. It slots in right before I go to my IQ Tour Ruby as the Ruby is about an arrow weaker and stair steps off the Duo very well.
I think the Duo will match up for many styles of bowlers looking for an all around good ball to cover a variety of lane conditions encountered in league and tournament bowling.
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LANE CONDITION
Length:43
Volume:Light
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS
COMMENTS
Coverstock: Micro Trax Pearl Reactive
Core: Mentorâ„¢ symmetric core
Finish: Reacta Gloss Factory Finish
RG: 2.53 (14lb)
Differential: 0.047 (14 lb)
Right-Handed Tweener
Speed: 12-13 mph
Rev Rate: 315
Axis Tilt: 14°
Axis Rotation: 74°
PAP: 5 1/8 R 7/8 Up
Ball Layout: Pin over Bridge 5 1/8 Pin to Pap 2 1/2 Pin Buffer
Roto Grip's New HP3 offering is called the DUO. They've used the Micro Trax Pearl ball that was featured so successfully on the Exotic Gem with a new core called Mentor. This bulby core shape is a throwback to balls like the Dare Devil. It gives the HP3 line a ball that I feel gives you a more noticeable difference from the HP4 line than the Idol series did.
The Duo is also a collaboration with the "Shafanie" duo of Shannon Okeefe and Stephanie Johnson and with an organization that they are very close to: Big Brothers/Big Sisters. The result of this collaboration is Storm Bowling has pledged a portion of every sale of a duo to Big Brothers/Big Sisters. So getting a great performing ball and also helping a great cause should be good selling point for the Duo.
I tested the Duo on the house pattern at my home center. While our pattern is on the longer side, the added heat of summer makes the lanes hook ALOT more than they do in the winter. I was worried about the Duo's strength after my experiences with the Idol series balls when the oil seems to sit so thin in the heat. The Duo however has proven to be much more useful. The microtrax pearl cover will get through the front of the lane and the higher RG mentor core doesn't cause the ball to burn up. What you get is a good strong backend reaction that isn't so violent that you can't control it. The advantage to this is that small misses don't leave you with unmakeable spares the way the really angular balls do. So while the Duo will clear all the early friction, it retains energy and gives you a strong, controllable roll down lane. I really like this reaction when I'm forced left and have to cover boards.
The Duo is strong enough for me to use first ball out of the bag on the current conditions. In the winter I would see it being more useful when some friction develops down-lane.
See my full ball reaction video at: https://youtu.be/reqfxv_qIu8
Lonnie Pemberton
Storm Pro Shop Staff
Vise Pro Shop Staff
Revolutions Pro Shop
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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The Duo is the newest strong symmetrical pearl ball in the lineup. The combination of the low RG and strong coverstock make this ball very smooth for a pearl ball. I find that the shape is very even and readable. This ball reminds me somewhat of a Zen, due to its heavy rolling nature and slower change of direction. I think overall the Zen is still stronger. While i can often start with the Zen game 1, i have found Duo to be better as a 2-ball or transition piece. If you are speed dominant or have higher tilt/rotation, this is a great pearl option because it revs up quickly and creates a smoother transition from skid to hook to roll, but still creates some length through the middle part of the lane.
Chase Valenzuela
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BALL
Roto Grip Duo
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Core: Mentor
Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss
Layout: 60x5x30 (my favorite layout)
LANE CONDITION
Length: 38’
Volume: 27.15 mL
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc.): Sport 2.11:1
COMMENTS
Likes: Partnership with Big Brothers, Big Sisters. It is great to see our industry give back to the community!!!
Dislikes: None so far.
I have just started throwing the Duo recently (had knee surgery and just back). My first impression of this ball is that the Duo is very clean through the heads with good motion off the breakpoint.
Probably not a fair assessment pattern to be using but it is what was on the lane. I was bowling on a fresh 2011 Istanbul Open pattern (38’, 2.11:1 ratio). Ball made strong moves down lane once leaving the pattern. I bowled for a couple hours on this pattern, so I got it to break down. I felt like the Duo performed better later in the practice time. Once I had a little carry down the ball seemed to get better for me.
I was throwing the Summit at this session as well and a quick comparison of the two: Duo was cleaner through the heads and has a sharper breakpoint down lane while the Summit easily hooked 4-5 more boards for me.
Cory Rockteschel
Roto Grip Regional Staff
Vise Inserts Staff
Best Fit Bowling Pro Shop
Waukesha/Sussex, WI
PAP: 4-7/8 x 3/8 up
Speed: 17 off the hand
Rev Rate: 430
www.rotogrip.com
www.storm.com
www.900global.com
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Ball Specs:
Roto Grip Duo
Coverstock: Reacta Gloss MicroTraxâ„¢ Pearl Reactive
Weight Block: Mentorâ„¢ Core (Symmetrical)
Color: Black/Electric Green
Review:
Purchasing this ball means you will be supporting a great cause (Big brothers, Big Sisters) along with having a very unique piece of equipment in your bag. Wrapped in the same cover as the Exotic Gem, the new Mentor Core provides a much smoother and easily controllable shape. Our style: tweener, 350-375 revs, 16.5mph, layout of choice is 4x4x2 (pin is above bridge). This ball pairs well in our strong pearls along with our Zen and Exotic Gem. Although shaping much different, it is probably the most unique we have seen from Roto Grip in quite some time. This weight block really does pick up and continue through the pins while also providing max control. Other stronger pearls may require a bit more speed control while the Duo holds the line a bit longer. The shelf appeal is there and so is the technology behind this ball. Go out and support a great cause today!
Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson
Roto Grip Pro Shop Staffers
joel@parklanes.net
kyle@parklanes.net
dean@frontierfuncenter.net
www.RotoGrip.com
#SquadRG
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Ball Specs:
Roto Grip Duo
Coverstock: Reacta Gloss MicroTraxâ„¢ Pearl Reactive
Weight Block: Mentorâ„¢ Core (Symmetrical)
Color: Black/Electric Green
Review:
When you purchase the Duo, you are not only getting a great ball but you are also supporting Big Brother, Big Sisters with a portion of sales going to help the charity. The pearl coverstock in one this ball is great for when the lanes start to break down and my Zen is just a little to strong for the reaction I am seeing. I tend to use this ball towards the second half of tournaments and during the second shift on league night. I love seeing the way this ball gets down the lane and has a strong backend motion through the pins. If the reaction doesn’t impress you the colors going down the lane will surely catch your eye and turn some heads. Make sure you pick yours up today and support a great cause in doing so.
Will Tefft
Roto Grip Pro Shop Staff Member
will@parklanes.net
www.rotogrip.com
#SquadRG
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The Duo features the new low RG symmetric Mentor core inspired by the Madcap core from the DareDevil series which comes in at a 2.49 RG and a .046 differential in 15 pounds, and is wrapped in the MicroTrax Pearl cover which comes out of the box with the Reacta Gloss factory surface. The Duo is a remarkably versatile ball at a virtually perfect strength for most league bowlers. It’s surprisingly clean and sharp considering it shares the cover from the Exotic Gem, and is somewhat directional. You can get it to stop and go forward if you want, or you can get it to be very continuous. It’s a nice blend between user friendly and forgiving and a very high amount of utility that makes the Duo a ball that gets better the better you are. The shape reminds me a lot of a Wrecker but stronger, somewhat tumbly, not quite chuggy, and somewhat hook/set.
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Duo
The Roto Grip Duo with the Exotic Gem coverstock is such a great combination! This is
my strongest pearl symmetrical ball in my bag. The layout is 4x4.5x2.5 which puts the pin up and a little to the left of my ring finger. Out the box the surface made the ball a lil too clean for me and at times too flippy with the reacta gloss polish so I used a 3000 abralon pad to knock off the shine and brought the ball to life.
It has been a great ball for the fresh for me with the 3000 surface. On the Kegel Route 66 pattern it worked well on there. With that pattern you can’t get it out past 7-8 so to keep it more of a tighter line with a breakpoint around 10 11 down lane the Duo played perfectly! For my game this is probably the strongest symmetrical pearl from Roto Grip I have thrown. This will be a great ball for league bowlers and when you need something on a sport pattern for transition.
Garrett Richardson
Storm Amateur Staff
Instagram: @grich_bowling
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Roto Grip’s newest symmetrical stronger pearl option, the Duo. The Duo has the Micro Trax pearl covered as seen on the Exotic Gem. The core is 2.49 RG and Diff of .046. With a strong coverstock and a high RG and DIFF, you can expect a cleaner option through the front part of the lane with plenty of backend reaction. I see myself throwing this ball right after my bench mark solid shapes when I still need a bigger cover but smaller core option to get around the lane.
Not only should you get this ball because of how good it is on the lanes, but a percentage of domestic sales goes to Big Brother’s and Big Sisters. Huge shoutout to Storm and The Shaffanie Show for the collab and coming together to do something special. Get yours now at your local Storm VIP Pro shop.
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LANE CONDITION
Length: 41'
Volume: 25.79
Type (Sport Pattern): Arsenic
COMMENTS
Coverstock: Micro Trax Pearl Reactive Core: Mentorâ„¢ symmetric core Finish: Reacta Gloss Factory Finish RG: 2.49 Diff:0.046
Layout: 4 1/2 x 4 7/8 x 1 5/8
Duo: the ultimate control pearl when I need to ball down from my Zen. Early rolling core with less flare with the ability to turn the corner. I find the carry percentage is equal to my Zen as I have used on various THS conditions and the 41' Arsenic. I have not altered the cover as I like to test a ball based on the intended ball expectations and I have not been disappointed with my results.
Bowling mostly on THS the Duo is very user friendly for all styles for it has that extra giddy up and go reaction typically liked by your everyday house bowler. CONTROLLABLE: I prefer this shape for both tournament and league to be the ultimate in versatility. Looking forward to its use after a year long injury recovery.
So Visit your local VIP Pro Shop and get yourself a Duo aka “The Shafanie Duoâ€
Likes: Controllable
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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The Duo features the Mentor core wrapped in the Micro Trax pearl. The Mentor core is a lower RG and medium differential core. The Micro Trax cover has most recently been featured on the Exotic Gem. This combo provides a perfect cleaner option that will fit right below your bigger symmetrical options and right above your Electrifys and IQ’s. 5% of all sales are also being donated to BBBS, so what’s not to love??
Review Video: https://youtu.be/8HgQWQOtR
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The Roto Grip Duo is the new ball in the HP3 line. Duo features the new low RG symmetric Mentor core. Which is wrapped with the MicroTrax Pearl cover, which is the same coverstock as the Exotic Gem. I drilled mine with a 4.5x4x2 layout. I tested the Duo on an 20+ year old Brunswick Pro Anvil lanes, on house shot and a couple medium patterns. The Duo gets through the fronts pretty good and has a lot midlane rolly shape for me and can get a little forward at times if there isn't enough oil. I can see me using the Duo on the fresh to blend out the backends. Plus I can use the Duo on the short patterns like Cheetah, to control the overall shape of the pattern.
I think Duo is going to be good for the average league bowler as it can handle the miss lefts in the puddle and the miss rights to the dry and it doesn't over bounce. Duo is a good ball down from the Gem's or reality. Cleaner than a Phaze 2 or TNT.
Overall the Duo is a strong symmetrical pearl that can be used by a variety of bowlers!
Plus a percentage of domestic sales goes to Big Brother’s and Big Sisters. Thanks for Stephanie Johnson and Shannon O'Keefe! for the support of the Duo!
Brian Watson
Storm Pro Shop Staff
PAP 3 7/8 up 1 1/4
RPM 400
MPH 16
TILT 16-17
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The Tour Dynamix has a low RG value of 2.47 a low differential of 0.026 and a medium intermediate differential of 0.010.
Rot Grip came out with a brand-new Tour Trax Cover wrapped around a modified Rondure Tour Core.
The differential / intermediate differential has been lowered on the core as compared to what was used in the Rubicon to create a faster revving version that stays on-line easier and longer with less change of direction due to the Differential value being cut in half.
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, Low Differential, Mild Asymmetric Differential core produces a constant stable motion off your hand and all the way through the pin deck.
In comparison to the 900 Global Xponent, the Xponent is the poster child for a benchmark ball fits right in the middle of a Summit and a Tour Dynamix. The Xponent will very smooth, continuous and very predictable. The Tour Dynamix is an IQ tour on steroids and will give you that drive up the hill that is not seen in an IQ tour until later in you 3 game set for league or later in an 8-game block on tour.
In the bag, will be the Summit, Xponent, Tour Dynamix and Storm Hyroad Pearl
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Orientation: Right Handed
Rev Rate: 400 RPM
Speed: 16-17 MPH
PAP: 4 ½ over and ½ up
Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO
Pattern: High Volume THS
VLS Layout:
Layout 1: 5 x 4 x 2 ½ (pin above bridge)
Layout 2: 4 ½ x 4 x 4 1/8 (pin below bridge)
The Duo is a new sym pearl from Roto Grip. The is the strongest Pearl sym I’ve ever thrown. It features Micro Trax Pearl, which was on the Exotic Gem. It’s got a new core that doesn’t rev up super quick and has a medium amount of differential. This means the Duo keeps it’s axis and stores a good amount of energy. This means this ball hooks a ton. My only complaint is that I need a lot of oil to keep this ball online. On lighter volumes it will push you left.
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Roto Grip Duo Ball Review by PJ Haggerty
The new Duo made by Roto Grip is the latest addition to the HP3 line and it’s impressive. With flashy, bright green shelf appeal, this ball also packs a punch. With an RG of 2.49 and a differential of .046, the Duo can be used by all types of players and on many different conditions. The Mentor Core is an upgrade from the old DareDevil that was made from Roto Grip years ago. The brains in Utah added a puck on the bottom of the core to enhance the motion down lane, and it definitely does that!
I’ve drilled one Duo so far and really like it. I mapped it out as 5 1/4 x 4 1/2 x 2. This puts the pin above my bridge with a slight shift of the CG. It’s been a perfect compliment to my Gem, Exotic Gem, and TNT. Once those balls have done their job and I need something to get through the front but still dig, change direction, and still run over the 8-pin, the Duo is the ball I use. In most situations, I’m sliding left of 25 and curving it a good amount because that’s where I’ve seen the most success, but I’ve also seen the straighter players with lower rev rates use it to play farther right away from the traffic.
If you need a ball that packs a punch, looks great going down lane, and can be usable for all types of styles and rev-rates, the Roto Grip Duo should be the next ball you drill.
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The Roto Grip Duo has a low RG value of 2.49 a medium differential of 0.046.
Roto Grip used a 100% nanoparticle load which provides traction and response within the MicroTrrax pearl cover that displaces oil at its highest rate of any pearl covers offered today. In combination with a new Mentor core which was derived from the DareDevil series to give the clean, smooth motion through the front part of the lane and added forgiveness to the backend.
The Optitrax cover which has been derived from years of testing and research to provide a more balanced oil displacement/absorption throughout the entire lane thus creating more consistency/predictability shot after shot in terms of skid distance, midlane traction, and response to friction down lane. Derived from the advancements of both the eTraxâ„¢ and eTraxâ„¢ PLUS solid materials the last couple years, we found this new direction of solid material that complements both of those without overlapping them.
In addition, Roto Grip is proud to announce its partnership & support of Big Brothers Big Sisters. With the assistance of our very own mentoring duo, “The Shafanie Duoâ€, we will not only be supporting BBBS at various events across the country, but we will also be donating 5% of our sales to domestic distributors to aid in the development and support of children within the program.
In comparison to the Roto Grip Exotic Gem, the Duo will be very close in ball motion due to using the same cover formula but what sets these two apart is the core strength. Which in turn will lead to the Duo going a pinch farther down the lane then the Exotic Gem but will have traction of the Exotic Gem. That traction component alone will allow you to use the Duo to be used in a variety of lane conditions. The Duo will provide you an option on the transition seen in Game 2 of league or in the Game 3 or 4 on tour depending on the lane condition of course.
In the bag, will be the Gem, Exotic Gem, Xponent, Duo & Hustle RIP
Please pick up a Roto Grip Duo at a Striking Results Proshop near you and please like and subscribe to my page Beyond the Arrows Ball reviews. Use my coupon code Patrick300 on your first purchase of a Bowlifi jersey and get $5.00 off.
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Sam C.-Roto Grip Amateur Staffer
High Speed-High Rev
Layout: 60×5 1/4″x40
The Baby Exotic Gem. With this ball having the same cover stock as the Exotic Gem it has no problem hooking with that being said it needs some oil. Not to mention the colors of this ball just look sweet going down the lane. This pearl ball is strong in the oil and does not go wild on the back end. I would describe the shape as more of an aggressive yet controllable arc. Comparing it to the 900 Global Zen they have similar hook potential. The difference between the two I feel is the Duo with the medium strength core “floats†or does not rev up as early when it sees the friction. To me this ball is a step down from the stronger balls like the Gem or Exotic Gem but a step up from a Storm Revenant or Absolute. Not to mention this ball supports a great cause Big Brothers and Big Sisters!
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The new Roto Grip Duo is the result of a partnership with Big Brothers, Big Sisters. A portion of all sales of the Duo will go to this charity. The Duo features the Mentor core wrapped in the MicroTrax pearl reactive coverstock. The RG at 15lbs is 2.49 and the differential is .046. Drilled at 5x4x2 (pin above the bridge) the Duo reminds me of the original DareDevil, only smoother. The Reacta Gloss finish of the Duo provides effortless length through the front part of the lane and a very strong but predictable backend motion. For a pearl coverstock, this ball does not have that hockey stick shape backend but a much more arcing motion usually found in solid cover stocks. This allows the Duo to be a great choice on the tougher patterns when control is priority number one. The Duo won’t wow you with big backend hook or even overall hook, but it will control the pocket for you and provide excellent pin action. Get a great ball and help a great charity!!
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LANE CONDITION
Length:42
Volume:25
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS
15 Mph
340 RPM
PAP 4 7/16> 5/8^
Right Handed
Ave 220-230
Visit the YouTube channel for reviews!
https://youtube.com/@jeffshadbolt857?feature=shared
Duo
4 5/8 x 5 x 2 1/8
RG 2.49
DIFF .046
The Duo is a little earlier than my typical goto pearls but it offers me a more controllable motion downlane than most pearls do for me. I tend to enjoy this one a bit more on sport patterns than house shots but the Microtrax Pearl Cover on the Mentor Core definitely offers a different look in the bag. It could be very valuable at times.
COMMENTS
Likes:
Dislikes:
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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I drilled up my Duo 5 x 4 x 3. This is my favorite layout for first out of the bag pearl balls. I hit the surface with a light 2000 to crack the shine and smooth the reaction out.
I put the DUO up against the SUMMIT and pin under EXOTIC GEM. Just like you would expect, the DUO is dead in the middle of these two. A little later than the SUMMIT and quicker than the pin under EXOTIC. The DUO was at home for me on a middle pattern and flared around 4-5".
I feel that the DUO will get play as a first ball out of the bag at places with some early friction burn in the fronts and also when the big solids are starting to lock up and lay flat down lane.
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Layout: 50 x 4 ½ x 35
The Duo has about as strong of a late midlane/backend reaction as you can have without it being classified as “skid flipâ€. The decent amount of midlane read that the Duo has both allows it to have a modicum of predictability and arciness, but overall, this thing can really fly in the back part of the lane! It has become my favorite ball for when strong backend is needed, especially on house shots. I've paired the Duo with the Summit to be a killer combination – the Summit shines on fresh or heavier oil, and the Duo comes out when the Summit starts to pick up too early or when I need to circle the lane more. The bright green and black color combo on this ball is really nice, also.
Mike LeViner
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Roto Grip Duo
Coverstock: MicroTrax Pearl Reactive
Box Finish: Reacta Gloss
Core: Mentor Core
RG: 2.49, Diff: 0.046 (15 lbs)
VLS Layout: 4 3/4 x 4 x 2 1/2
Dual Angle Layout: 45 x 4 3/4 x 40
PAP: 5 3/16†right x 5/8†up
Rev rate: 400 rpm
Average speed: 16.5 mph
Location: Prairie Lanes, Sun Prairie, WI
Pattern: Medium volume THS
The Roto Grip Duo is the recent addition to the HP3 line that features the MicroTrax Pearl Reactive cover, same as on the Exotic Gem, and Mentor symmetric core that was partly inspired by the Dare Devil line of balls from a few years ago. All that goodness aside, what really makes this ball special is that it’s the first collaboration between “The Shafanie Duo†of PWBA stars Stephanie Johnson and Shannon O’Keeke, and is in support of a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters – with 5% of the sales from the Roto Grip Duo being donated to aid in the development and support of kiddos within the program!!
This ball is a performer on the lanes as well. Because it has the same cover as the Exotic Gem, the Duo feels very much like a symmetrical version of the Exotic. The combination of the low RG, mid-differential core and strong coverstock makes this a strong but predictable pearl ball. Because the Duo comes out-of-box with the Reacta Gloss finish, I scuffed the surface lightly with a used 2000-grit Abralon pad like I have with many other balls that come polished just to scratch the surface a bit and knock some shine off. The Duo has thus far proven itself to be very versatile and I believe would be a great ball for most any league bowler as well. The Duo is clean enough to get through the front part of the lane to remain online, and it has a good strong backend reaction that isn’t so sharp that you can’t control it.
In most cases, the Duo is the first ball out of my bag; and for league night it’s the only ball I need. If you’re looking for a ball that is cleaner with less overall hook than the Gem or Exotic Gem, but still something stronger than the Hyped and is versatile enough to thrown as the lanes transition – the Duo is it!
Chris Pollentier
Storm Products Pro Shop Staff
#StormNation
#SquadRG
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LANE CONDITION
Length:43ft
Volume:24mls
Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS
COMMENTS
Likes: As soon as I saw one picture of this ball I knew we were in for a good one! First and foremost it is an amazing thing the see Roto Grip and Shefanie teaming up for such a great cause like Big Brothers Big Sisters and donating money from every Duo that they sell! My home center every year puts on a big weekend event for Big Brothers Big Sisters so this definitely hit close to home for me. Now for the ball itself, my first time throwing it was for my reaction video and to say that I loved what I saw would be an understatement! The Duo definitely has given me some good old classic Roto Grip vibes! If you were a fan of the Wrecker or the Uproar then you should absolutely look into getting yourself a Duo because I personally think it shapes up exactly like those 2 balls did. It is definitely a tick stronger tho. It is also a perfect 1-2 punch for me with the Exotic Gem. Very similar shape wise except the Duo is a smidge weaker and a perfect ball down for when the Exotic is starting to lock up. Honestly tho if you haven’t drilled one yet then what are you waiting for!
Dislikes:None
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
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I am a higher speed, rev challenged 220-250ish, high tilt, high rotation, and super low track player, I drilled my Roto Grip DUO 5x 3 1/2 x 1 3/4 using the Storm VLS and my axis point is 3 ¼ right and 7/8 up. The Roto Grip DUO is middle of the road pearl symmetric benchmark ball that is easy through the front of the lane with great continuation down lane without being too angular. Overall, the ball is responsive and I see myself using this on house shots or medium volume patterns.
My YouTube video of the ball can be found at: https://youtu.be/o2Us3qgPE_c?si=gkKKb7ZaI36xwHeV
By: Sandra McIntire
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About Me
900 Global Staff
Left Handed: High Rev High Speed Player
Pap: - 4 7/8 +1
Rev Rate: 500
Speed 17 mph
Layout: 70 X 3¾ X 30
Ball Video: N/A
The Roto Grip Duo is what I like to call a “Pallet Ball.†What I mean by this is that I would love to buy a pallet of them and keep drilling this ball up. The Duo is so clean and controllable from the front part of the lane to the backend. Speaking of the backend, it is so predictable with incredible finishing power. The amount of mistake area that I can create with this ball is ridiculous. This ball is going to be a benchmark ball for me and will be the first ball out of back on any pattern I throw with. The Duo has been able to replace quite a few balls in my arsenal because of the versatility I have in throwing this. It would be in your best interest to get a Duo and put one in your bag, not only will you bowl well with it but 5% is going to go to charity. One of the best balls I have ever thrown and that is saying quite a bit.
Joel Donner
900 Global Staff Member
Cedar Rapids, IA
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