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Reviews => Roto Grip => Topic started by: admin on December 31, 1969, 06:00:00 PM

Title: Mars
Post by: admin on December 31, 1969, 06:00:00 PM
- Coverstock: Sure Grip IIâ„¢ Hybrid Reactive
- Weight Block:Orbiter IIâ„¢ Core (14-16), Modifided Orbiter II (10-13)
- Ball Color: Black/Orange All colors do vary somewhat from the picture shown.
- Ball Finish: 1500 Polished
- Track Flare Potential: 2" (Low) on a scale of 1-10 Low-High
- Recommended Lane Conditions: Medium-Light Oil
- A few tiny pit holes in the cover stock of the ball are normal
- Description: The final addition to the best value performance line of bowling balls on the market is the Mars. The signature touch to this planet series ball is the Sure Grip II Hybrid Reactive coverstock. The combination of solid and pearl reactive delivers the best of both worlds on those medium to lighter volume patterns. The Orbiter II core creates the inertial force to power this planet to deliver smooth controllable hook for all types of players.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: VideoBallReviews on March 05, 2009, 09:53:12 PM
Hi all,

Im proud to present to you the Mars Video From Roto Grip.

http://www.videoballreviews.com/mars.html

or here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OK8-5fxS1tI

Mars, the final (and best in my opinion) planet in the Roto Grip Universe…

The Mars combines the Latest two releases in the planet series. The hybrid cover in the Mars is half pearl (Neptune) and half solid (Pluto). The Reaction falls right inbetween the two balls. Longer and stronger downlane than the Pluto, and earlier than the Neptune.

In my opinon this is the great match of cover and core…this ball allows me to play closer to the friction without experiencing that nasty over/under I see from other “low end” pieces. This ball does a great job of blending the pattern from side to side and front to back. Lots of control and lots of power off the dry. This ball is the definition of more bang for your buck…

As always Questions and Comments welcome!
--------------------
Britton
Owner/Operator of Videoballreviews.com (http://"http://www.videoballreviews.com")
Multi Media Consultant
Storm Products, Inc.
www.stormbowling.com (http://"http://www.stormbowling.com")
www.rotogrip.com (http://"http://www.rotogrip.com")
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: bowltsproshop on March 12, 2009, 04:35:23 AM
First lets get the technical stuff outta the way  
Layout  pin-3" from axis(next to ring)
cg straight under pin(to put my "mass bias" next to thumb)
weight hole 1" to right of axis past val
Box finish
The mars does everything as promised.  Clean through the heads similar to the neptune with the strongest most angular move than any of the balls in the planet line past and present.  I used the mars tonight in league on amf synthetics on a 42 foot house pattern and never experienced an overraction out of the dry even playing close to the end of the pattern.  Also tried it for a few games on a similar pattern but on a very worn wood surface and even with the high amount of friction I never got an uncontrollable reaction out of the dry.  Another great addition to the planet line by rotogrip.  
--------------------
Dave Roberts Jr
Rotogrip Amateur Staff Member
Bowl-T's Pro Shop, imperial. MO
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: PikevilleBwl on March 13, 2009, 01:16:31 AM
Alright everyone I drilled up the new Mars ball today and I will tell you what I am impressed. We used a dual angel layout on the ball which I am not sure on the degrees on it. When we did drill it the my index finger was drilled into the pin and the cg in center of palm. I was running late for practice so I didn't get to throw it before league. Well I went with my Rogue and left a 7 spare then finally got it out and threw the next 6 for a 268, 246 and 211 for a 725 series. I never had thrown Roto Grip Before but I am not switching with the Rogue and Mars my lowest series is 725 and high 814 I can't go wrong with this equipment.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: big hank j on March 15, 2009, 10:47:31 PM
15 lb  2.75 pin 3 ounce top
I drilled this ball with a 4" x 3" pin just under the ring finger.  Weight hole 1" down on the VAL.  I decided to use this ball after practicing with Cell Pearls on fresh league shot.  I was very surprised that with a small adjustment with my feet that this ball was smooth and hard arcing.  No problem at all thru the heads and it picked up great on the friction with this layout.  The backends were very controllable and the carry was awesome.  I could hit or roll this ball and was very confident playing straighter that it would not overreact.  I compared this ball with a similar drilled Neptune that is my favorite on dry lanes and for grinding.  This ball was a little more agressive on the backends.  Something I usually need.


Hank Jordan
Roto Grip Amateur
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: PrecisionRotoGuy on March 18, 2009, 01:35:41 PM
Layout- Pin 5” from PAP, hole wide/shallow 1” up the VAL

I was actually pretty surprised on how weak this ball was, but I’ve noticed that when you drill them stronger than I did (my layout is pretty weak) they roll pretty strong, so this tells me it’s pretty much par for the course for the Planet line- flexible and a good value in comparison to many other companies’ product lines. I polished mine and it looks great up the lane, I sanded it and it looked good from further left- still maintaining its motion through the rack. Honestly, who couldn’t use that kind of flexibility from a middle-entry type ball? The cool thing is (and those who know me know that I almost never reference this sort of thing) how awesome this ball looks. Don’t let the description fool you, yes it is black and orange, but the ball looks like it has a chameleon paint job. When the light hits it it looks purple, but the sides still look orange and black. This thing looks super on the shelf, on the rack, going down the lanes and in the black light. Who doesn’t wanna look good when they’re bowling? Plus, from a pro shop perspective, balls that look good on the shelf and grab people’s attention sell like gangbusters, which is good for local business and the industry as a whole. Personally, I see this ball as a great fit for Medium to dry for your scratch bowler, but also a sweet looking entry ball for everyone.

Jason Hoff
Area 300 Pro Shop
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: KENOMAN on March 18, 2009, 04:32:47 PM
I HAD MY MARS DRILLED WEAK FOR FOR DRY LANE CONDITIONS. I HAD IT SET UP 5-1/2X4-1/2, THE PIN IS BELOW THE BRIDGE BETWEEN THE FINGERS AND 10:30 IN RELATION TO THE CG. I WAS ON A TYPICAL HOUSE SHOT 38'. BUFFED TO 41',10 TO 10 WITH OUT OF BOUNDS 4 AND OUT. THE BALL WENT DEAD STRAIGHT 8 AND IN, 5-6-7 I GOT THE REACTION I WANTED A SLIGHT HOOK AND GOOD ROLL. IT APPEARS THIS BALL WILL BE PERFECT FOR DRY LANES.

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KEN TAYLOR SR
AMATEUR STAFF
ATLANTA GA
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Roto Herb on March 18, 2009, 09:58:20 PM
Wow! How can an “entry” level ball be so pure?  I thought the Saturn was a great piece so I kept an extra just in case.  It’s for sale now.  The Mars hits just as great and is even cleaner through the fronts.  The Mars is a great addition to the Roto Grip line, and as such is very versatile.
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Herb Walsh
Colorado Springs
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: RonCase823 on March 19, 2009, 11:57:00 PM
My Axis is 5 5/8 right, ¼ up, my speed is average and I would consider myself with higher revs but more up the back.  So not a cranker but not really straight either.

This ball I put the pin under my middle finger and kicked the CG out positive just slightly.  This ball works well when you hit the desert or dry conditions.  However if you like to play out but can’t on house shots because of too much friction this will suit you well.  High rev players or slower speed will love it also.  With my release I seem to get the ball rolling early which on dry lanes is a killer.  This ball, even on the driest lanes I’ve seen, goes great through the heads and really kicks hard on the backend.  Now I can’t wait for the lanes to get fried because this ball can handle that.
Ron Case - RotoGrip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Mikelj on March 21, 2009, 12:07:00 AM
I love the true roll of this ball. From the first game to the last the ball kept striking and the carry was great. I was able to bounce the ball off the dry and and watch it make a easy turn toward the pocket. The ball cleared the heads cleanly.

I stroke the ball and like playing down and in.  This ball is great for medium condition. I have my Mars drilled with 10:30 drilling. The pin above the fingers 3" from the PAP.

I get a great read on the lanes and nice move to the pocket with a strong roll.


--------------------
Mike Johnston
Roto Grip Advisory Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: MoonsLefty on March 21, 2009, 12:52:10 PM
What can I say about Mars? Well, it is a very clean rolling ball through the heads which is what you have come to expect from the planet line, but it does give you more backend than the rest of the line. Even in a house with very soft heads. It is stronger than the Neptune, which for me was really over/under. Hopefully this is a planet I will be able to throw with more consistency, which I haven't been able to do since the Saturn.
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Rob Haverstock
 Roto Grip Pro Shop Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: bucko the bowler on March 21, 2009, 09:43:48 PM
Great ball out of the box. First time using this ball was on a very tough house shot where most bowlers only average in the 2-teens. The lanes have no recovery outside and a medium amount of oil in the middle. The oil pattern runs approx 38 ft and has a lot of over/under to the lane condition. The Mars read late in the mid-lanes off the back of the oil pattern and picked up an aggressive roll, not a snappy reaction and it also has a great drive through the pins.  My first game with the Mars I bowled a 300 with an overall 787 series.  I thought the Neptune was a great ball and then Roto Grip came out with the Pluto, which raised the bar for a great entry level ball However the Mars goes over and above both of those balls in comparison to ball reaction.  This ball is going to work great on every type of lane surface and the light to medium oil patterns.
 
*************************
BRANDON HARRIS
Amateur Roto Grip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: batbowler on March 22, 2009, 10:09:46 PM
I drilled my Mars like my Pluto so I could get a good idea about this ball! I drilled this ball 75deg x 31/2" x 30deg which placed the pin in my ring finger and CG stacked below and below my midline. When I first rolled this ball I was amazed at the move at the breakpoint and it flipped harder than my Pluto drilled the same way. My Pluto was a little stronger than I wanted and I polished it from the box finish. I was seeing a little over/under with the box finish on the Mars and I took a little of the glaze/shine off, but I didn't dull it up. This was the trick for me and it reads the mids a little sooner and took a little of the snap off of the breakpoint. This ball will fit nicely on the medium oil patterns if my Grand Illusion is hooking to much or I want to open the shot up as they dry out! The only negative I can see is, it says this is the last planet line ball! Another great piece from an awesome ball company! My thanks to Roger and Hank!
--------------------
"Train a child up in the way he should go and when he is old he will "BOWL UP A STORM AND BE KING OF THEM ALL" and not turn from it."
Roto Grip - Storm : What else do you need?
Bruce Campbell
www.rotogrip.com
www.rotogear.com
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: cmsubowler on March 23, 2009, 02:29:10 PM
Drilled up a Mars to help out through some tough transitions.  This ball is very predictable and gets to the pins with energy leftover.  Drilled one up with a initial drilling angle of 45 degrees with a 3.75" pin to PAP and VAL angle  of 55 degrees.  Brought my game back to the right about 12 boards and was able to throw it to and through the "dirt" and leftovers on the right side of a wood lanes house that I am usually starting with my feet somewhere between 24 and 32 keeping the ball tight online to stay in the oil.  Slight surface change will allow you to keep the speed up and start with this ball on a fresh shot.   Ball will read the end and bank off of the dry boards with zero hesitation while still getting through the front half of the lane very clean.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: TBS1 on March 23, 2009, 04:39:16 PM
Drilled 5"pin to pap x 4" mb to pap w/ 3" pin buffer.

Initial thoughts-  I had a big hole between my Pluto and Neptune.  Since the Rogue cell fits in so good for me in between the Cell and Cell pearl, I was optimistic about the Mars filling this gap.  On THS, without surface modifications the Pluto would be a little early, and the Neptune wouldn't get back off the spot.

The Mars is just what the doctor ordered for my needs. It's super clean through the heads with enough pop off the spot.  Easily fits in between the other two planets. THe ball is most definitely more bang for the buck, and the shelf appeal doesn't hurt.

For those of you interested, I should have a video coming soon...

Thanks,

--------------------
James McCarter
Co-Owner/Operator
The Bowlers Solution INC
Roto Grip Amateur Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: John Brodersen on March 26, 2009, 06:46:28 PM
Ball specs – 15 lbs 2 oz, 3.10 top weight, and 2.50-inch pin.

Let me start by saying the Mars is a much better looking ball than the various photos illustrate.  The dark purple / orange combination really provides for customer shelf appeal.

The symmetrical Mars was drilled using the dual angle method.  The layout is a 6-inch pin, 55-degree drill angle and a 70-degree VAL angle.  This put the pin just under the middle finger and the CG under and about 1.5 inches below the ring finger.  No X-hole was required and the surface was hit lightly with a 4000 abralon pad.

I was still looking for a ball when the lanes become extremely black and white side to side later in the day during tournament play.  (A shout out to Storm’s technical director Ernest Goedicke for his time and layout suggestion)  The Mars hybrid cover provides easy length down the lane and a very smooth move off the friction.  With this layout the Mars only flares about 1.5 inches but still provides crisp hit and carry.  With this layout the Mars does need to see some friction to get it going and will be some what condition specific.

The Roto Grip Shield line has had the best entry-level performance products in the industry.  The Mars continues to improve upon this impressive line up.

John Brodersen
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Tess7654 on March 29, 2009, 09:02:27 PM
I drilled my Mars with a 4" pin from pap, cg slightly kicked out with a hole 2" below my pap on my val. I have used the Mars on a house shot and on the viper pattern and it was very predictable and carried very well. On a typical house shot I was able to play fairly straight right up 6-7 or move into 12 and throw it out to 5....what i was most impressed with was how it didn't over hook if thrown into the dry to quickly. On the viper pattern I was able to play very direct straight up 4-5. I've also noticed with the Mars I am able to increase my tilt and create 3-4 more boards of backend and still have a predictable motion. All in all this is my favorite planet ball yet...just when you think RotoGrip can't get any better they do.

(https://www.ballreviews.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi468.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Frr49%2FDt7755%2F0329091914a.jpg&hash=47dc4de4bcd93b210c1bcb87e9015ffb42e8d298)

David Tessman
Roto Grip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Craig LeMond on March 31, 2009, 03:11:53 PM
The Mars is a great ball for the money.  I drilled mine with my pin in my palm and my cg at a 30 degree angle.  I put a hole on my VAL 4" down from my pap.  I was wanting something for our house pattern.  I wanted to control the backend reaction a little bit and it did just that.  It rolls great in the mid lane but when it gets to the backend of the pattern its an angular shape instead of a aggressive break.  It works wonderful with my neptune which is a lot longer and a lot sharper at the break point.  If your looking for a ball with awesome performance and a reasonable price tag the Mars is it.



Roto Grip Staffer
Craig LeMond
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: PaulMc on March 31, 2009, 09:09:10 PM
I had no idea what to expect from the Mars when I got it.  My first shot with the Mars told me that this ball is a condition ball for when the lanes are pretty dry.  That was not entirely accurate.  The ball goes really long but has a strong finish (as long as you keep it out of the puddles!).

While practicing today on a house condition, I started with my Cell Rogue and was swinging the ball crossing eight going out to about five.  After getting lines up and throwing some strikes I switched to the Mars.  I ended up moving six and two left which allowed me to play way outside the oil line.  At first I was leaving some 7 pins as the ball was going pretty long.  I moved my target a little closer to me and …wow.  I struck forever.  A guy in the league next to me asked if I had 15 or 20 in a row.  I didn't know but it was a lot.  I then threw about eight more strikes after that.  On today’s house shots, its not a big deal to see people strike but I actually had people back there mumbling I was striking so much.

I can't wait to throw this ball in competition!  I know on certain shots it will give me an awesome reaction others won't have.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Onebigtwister on April 01, 2009, 04:57:55 PM
SPECS: 3-4” pin 3.18oz top
DRILLING: 4x4 with 63/64” hole 2 ½” deep on PAP.
SURFACE: box finish

First I want to say that this is the best looking planet ball to date, if not one of the best looking balls ever. After having 2 Plutos which gave me great reactions from both, but didn't give me the length with a little pop I needed on some conditions….. This ball fit just right.

THS- This ball gave me a look on the lane which I rarely can play on the China, it aloud me to play out with the strokers/tweeners  and my carry was phenomenal. The only thing I saw that didn't bother me that much, but with someone that doesn't have a lot of hand carry down could become a factor, but like I said it didn't bother me much at all. The other thing  that I like about this ball is that when the lanes started to break down I was only moving 1-2 boards at a time rather then my normal 4-6 board adjustments.

Overall, I think this going to be the best planet ball so far. Great length with little controlled pop on the back. I have yet to try it on some tougher conditions., but when I do I will be sure to update. For the money this ball is a STAR!

If you have any further questions you can reach me a strike2win@hotmail.com


Jacob Bedard
Roto Grip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: ODriscoll on April 03, 2009, 11:50:21 PM
Mars

The shield line continues to add value in the best entry level balls on the market.  For pro shop operators this series could easily be your best seller.  Don’t be deceived by the picture as the ball is pretty cool looking especially going down the lane.  

The Orbiter II core wrapped in one of my favorite coverstocks.  The Hybrid Reactive coverstock provides more versatility than most balls especially at this price range.  Definitely suited for shorter patterns, the Mars does very well on your typical house shot.  Good heavy roll with not a lot of flare.  It also does very well when lanes get ugly or burnt.  The Mars can allow you to stay in your comfort zone longer or when others are lofting the gutter caps.  Highly recommended for tournament bowlers.

Kelly O’Driscoll
Roto Grip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: ShermDawg on April 07, 2009, 05:03:24 PM
Style: Cranker (crowbar)
Revrate: 475 - 500 RPM

The Layout:

3.5 x 4.5 (label shift)

The Motion:

This ball is a great compliment in the Roto Grip series of Equipment. Only having thrown the Mars in the planet series so far, it is easy to say that the hitting power behind this line is unbelievable. This ball definitely handles drier conditions with ease. It is easy to move to the track area and play more of a direct line to the pocket, even with a higher rev rate. Hitting power is definitely not sacrificed at this price point. The ball is very controllable. In a higher volume pattern, this ball never has a chance to read. It is very clean through the heads with a very gradual motion to the pocket.

Anyone who is looking for a ball to compliment their higher end equipment, a Mars is definitely the planet you want to go to.
--------------------
Mason Sherman
Vise Regional Staff
Roto Grip Regional Staff

Title: Re: Mars
Post by: SenorRotoGrip on April 10, 2009, 06:44:30 PM
I drilled the box condition (1500 polished Hybrid cover) Mars with a 4 3/4  x 4 layout, pin 3/4" above the fingers on grip centerline, leaving approximately 1/2 ounce of static side and finger weight, no hole.
 
The Mars is definately a medium to dry lanes ball. The hybrid cover is great and the Orbiter II weight block matches up nicely with it. Because it is a high rg, low differential ball, medium to heavy oil volumes and the Mars will not work all that well together. On a fresh house shot (39') the Mars skidded down lane too long before making a move to the pocket.
But, on a 37' PBA Viper pattern,on wood lanes, the Mars was right on. The ball went through the heads easily and made a nice move off the break point. Using surface/pin adjustments for synthetic surfaces should allow the ball driller to match up a Mars with the novice, intermediate, or advanced player with no problem depending on what the bowler is looking for.  
 
 As with all the balls in the Planet line, the Orbiter II core hits extremely hard, keeping the pins low, allowing for more carry on slightly off pocket hits. For bowler's looking for a late shift or tournament burn ball, the Mars will get the job done. For the less experienced bowler, buying their first reactive ball, the Mars will work just fine.  
 
 
Brendan Bierch
Roto Grip Pro Shop Staff
--------------------
Senor RotoGrip
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: BShep on April 16, 2009, 03:38:14 PM
Drilling 5 3/4 x 3 1/2 pin under middle finger.
I drilled the Mars with a longer pin to pap in hopes of getting great length and a little kick on the backend to use on true dry conditions.  At the time of drilling we had 3 upcoming tournaments on wood lanes where I expected this to be a good remedy.

After initially throwing the ball on a medium volume THS on HPL's, this ball went even longer than expected.  The backend movement was as expected, just too far down the lane.  This ball definitely needed some dry boards to move.  I decided to take some of the shine off and try it at 2000 grit to get it to pick up a little sooner.

On the wood lanes, this ball really shined.  I wasn't able to use it initially but once the heads started to blow, this ball was the perfect match.  While others were struggling getting any length, with balls hooking at their feet, the Mars still got through the heads with ease without sacrificing carry.  Normally I would be in around 5th arrow, whereas the Mars allowed me to stay between 2nd and 3rd.  

In summary, the Mars is a great ball for dry lane conditions or broken down shots.  As always, don't be afraid to make surface adjustments as needed to fine tune your ball reaction.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: olererack on April 18, 2009, 02:25:26 AM
Roto Grip Mars Bowling Ball
Cover stock: Sure Grip II (Hybrid Reactive )
Ball Color: Black/Orange
Ball Finish: 1500 Polished

The Mars is definitely a medium to dry lanes ball.
 The hybrid cover and the Orbiter II weight block combo  is a matches
The Mars is a high rg, low differential ball,
Medium to heavy oil volumes will cause  the Mars to labor to react
Such as a fresh house shot (39') the Mars skidded too long before making a move to the  pocket.
 The MARS  is a great compliment in the Roto Grip series of Planet Equipment..
Mars is one of the best of  the planet series to date,
Good heavy roll with not a lot of flare. It also does very well when lanes get ugly or burnt.
 Controllable hook for all type of styles
It is easy to say that the hitting power  is amazing for such a shiny ball
Still The Mars will definitely handles drier lanes  conditions
Reactive cover stock provides plenty of  versatility

I drilled my ball  using the DUAL ANGLE LAY-OUT drilling technique
Lay-Out is:
70 degree’s  by 40 degree
Pin is  5 inch from PAP
The Planet line continues to add value to the best entry level balls on the market.
For pro shop operators this series could easily be a seller.

The Mars will allows  those with comfort zones  to play a line  longer or when others are lofting the gutter caps.
The Mars is Highly recommended .


Member of Buddies Pro Shop
Member Of the Vise Grip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: JMartin27407 on April 21, 2009, 09:01:10 AM
Drilling:  4 x 3 (3 1/2" buffer)
           15/16 hole on PAP 3" deep


I was expecting this ball to be somewhat weaker than my Plutos.  Much to my surprise even with the stronger layout this ball turned out to be one of the cleanest balls I have had in years.  Not only is it clean but extremely predictable, which proves to be very useful in my aresnal.  A few weeks after drilling this I go to bowl our City Tournament where the bowling center that hosts singles and doubles is known for having a really short house shot.  After bowling really bad in doubles I decided to try the Mars out.  I obviously should have started with it, hense I shoot 799 and win singles scratch.  If you have a high rev rate and need something that you can square up to the lane with, this is definitly a ball you should take a look at.  Great job Roto-Grip!!

Jimmy Martin
Roto-Grip Amateur Staff
Orlando FL

Title: Re: Mars
Post by: rockteschel on April 22, 2009, 10:43:27 AM
I drilled the Mars to be used on short sport patterns.  I drilled it 40x6x60.  The tall that I drilled has a 2.5” pin.  This layout put the pin just to the left of my middle finger.  This Mars reacts just like I wanted and predicted it would.  It does not hook immediately upon leaving the oiled part of the lanes.  It makes a controlled move to the pocket and still hits with power.  I threw the ball on the cheetah pattern.  I played 4 board at the arrows and was standing on the 17th board with the center of my left foot.  The ball made a predictable smooth motion to the pocket.  The only drawback was the drilling.  If I got lazy I did not get the ball to finish.  
   The Mars in my opinion will be an excellent ball for the beginning bowler looking for an entry level performance ball or for the experience tournament bowler looking for a good ball for light oil.  

--------------------
Roto Grip Amateur Staff Member

USBC Bronze Coach

www.tenpincoaching.com



Title: Re: Mars
Post by: MVbowler on April 22, 2009, 02:34:03 PM
I drilled the mars because i needed something that would get down lane, but still recover better than my neptune. It has a strong layout.. i think 4x3 3/4 with a small hole on pap. This ball was exactly what i needed for game 3 of a second shift league. It was a little squirty at first because i tried throwing it in practice when there was still a good amount of oil on the left side.
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Title: Re: Mars
Post by: rotoguy838 on April 26, 2009, 08:23:00 PM
My Mars is drilled with the pin about 3 1/2 inches from my PAP with the CG kicked to the right about a quarter of an inch. This drilling allows the ball to get through the fronts and start to react mid lane with strong back end and be very continuous through the break point and pins. This ball hits like a truck and is very consistent and predictable. This ball has the mid lane roll of the Pluto but the back end reaction of the Neptune. This ball will work on many different conditions.

Jimmy Crews
Roto Grip Amateur Staff Member
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: StoneColdski on May 27, 2009, 12:44:00 PM
I have mine drilled Pin down CG 1 1/2" out, no hole.  
This ball is SO CLEAN and creates a SMOOTH motion to pocket with TREMENDOUS HITTING POWER!!   The ball allows me to stay right when others start fighting the friction.  I ALSO have been able to step in and gets this HYBRID to cover some boards. Bowlers hae asked me,"what is that?"  My reply is, " the latest ENTRY LEVEL ball from Roto Grip!"

There is NO company giving you this much versatility at an ENTRY LEVEL than Roto Grip!!!  GREAT JOB
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Roto Grip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: BrianCRX90 on May 30, 2009, 01:06:17 AM
BAll drilled for length and backend by the drilling chart - 5 inches to the PAP with the CG in the strong position to be diverse with my style on medium to dry lanes.
This ball was to replace my Mercury which was a very good dry to medium lane condition ball but had an older drilling and never felt right and was kind of beat up over time and didn't want to spend money to fix it. So got the Mars, which is quite a bizarre reacting ball - in some ways has some similarities to the Mercury but in some ways does not. This hybrid ball wants to roll like a solid down the lane yet gets through the heads very easily and has a skid smooth snap but even though I was comparing it to my Mercury which is somewhat drilled similar but the Mars reved up on the heads better, reacted sooner and had a bigger snap and more backend.

This may not be a true dry lane ball but in my opinion neither was the Mercury but loved it on dry lanes where I was forced to play deep inside lines without changing to weaker hand positions this ball is similar in that way. Amazingly what I didn't like about the Mercury was at times that ball hit soft at times, the Mars seems to hit harder and could scatter pins around better on lighter hits. Another fine ball by Roto-Grip and must say that that I ever care what a ball looks like but the shelf appeal is terrific and cool logo including the larger modified Roro-Grip logo.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: rrbowler on June 03, 2009, 11:42:51 AM
I drilled three mars the first one i drilled 4 X 4 with three to four pin. the second i drilled with a rico drilling and the third i drilled with thr pin in my track. The Mars is the most ball driller friendly ball you could ask for, drill the ball strong it is a very srong ball ,when drilled weak its dosnt hook much.The mars is a great price ball for your money.
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Rich Mueller
 Roto Grip Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Mr Scary on June 03, 2009, 01:43:56 PM
Drilling  Rico, pin in the palm with CG at 45 deg angle.

This ball is very smooth throughout.  Easy through the heads, good read through the mids, and does not jump when it hits dry.  The pin action is good.  I have had very good luck with the entry level Roto Grip balls, and this ball is no different.  Great addition with the hybrid coverstock.  


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Chris Slagter
Roto Grip Amatuer Staff
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: 12inarowProShop on June 04, 2009, 04:09:30 PM
Roto Grip does it again!  The planet series never fails to deliver!  I've had every single planet series ball and the Mars is by far my favorite.  For one thing, the ball just looks awesome! They could have used this color pattern for a $200 ball and it would have been a homerun, so at an entry level price, this ball is a steal.  The coverstock is probably the strongest of any of the planet series.  It gets cleanly thru the heads and finishes really strong.  I drilled mine with the pin next to my ring finger and kicked out the CG a bit to be more of an even reaction.  Thank goodness i did because if it were any stronger, i doubt i'd be able to control it.  I use it on our house shot, which is pretty much a typical house shot.  I score so well with it that people often thing that its a high performance ball.  Thats just how good of a ball this is.  I'm sad to hear that the planet series is done, i was hoping to have the Jupiter to complete my collection.  Way to go Roto Grip!, this ball is awesome!

Marlon Enriquez
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Roto-Mat on June 05, 2009, 12:36:39 AM
My bowling stats:
PAP: 5.75” Over .25” Up
Average Speed: 18.5 MPH
RPM’s: 400+
Ball(s) Stats:

“Early” Mars
Drilled out: “4x4
Weight Hole: On VAL Drilled on a line through CG
Personal Favorite Surface Condition: OOB

“Semi-Label Drilled” Mars
Pin Location: 5.5" from PAP Directly above Ring Finger
CG Located in Grip Center
Weight Hole: N/A
Personal Favorite Surface Condition: OOB

Review:
Conditions I Would Consider Using The Ball On:
Light Oil
Short Oil
Beat Up/Chewed Up Lanes (Wood or Synthetic)

The Mars is probably one of the weakest balls that Roto-Grip has come out with since the Mercury (although the Mars is slightly stronger). I found that the Mars is definitely allergic to oil, but knows hows to read friction down the lane with a vengeance. The Mars has allowed me to play parts of the lane that I otherwise would not have been able to when they are severely broken down.

“Early” Mars

I labeled this ball with the term “Early” because that is what it is compared to my other Mars. This particular ball is very smooth and does not know how to read early hook. I found this ball to play “Top Hat” type house shots very well near the oil line. I have no fear of missing a board or two right and having it over react and jerking too hard on the back end. However, if I manage to miss a board or two left on a “Top Hat” house shot, I hope I missed enough left to go high flush and kick out the 10. On a broken down sports/PBA shot, this ball does really well navigating the broken down pattern.

“Semi-Label Drilled” Mars
This ball rolls just like the “Early” Mars does, except it takes another 3-5 games for it to shine. This ball is very straight though the heads (and even part way into the midlane!), with a mild arc in the backend. This is one of the best control balls for dry lanes I have ever thrown.

 If you are a player that is not comfortable moving left and out of your comfort zone, I would not hesitate drilling 2 Mars for you like these for late blocks in a tournament.

Conditions that I would not consider using these balls on:

Any heavy or long pattern.

Roto-Grip Balls Up or Down:
Ball Up In Reaction: Neptune
Ball Down In Reaction: Mercury

Thank you for your time in reading this review. I hope that you have found it to be helpful. If you have any questions please feel free to PM me and I will try to help you as much as I can.
Thanks!

Mat Henning
Roto-Grip Staffer
Champions Bowling Services
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Mat Henning
Roto-Grip Staffer
Turbo 2·N·1 Staffer
Owner/Operator of
Champions Bowling Services
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: pbacanuck on June 05, 2009, 04:56:10 PM
Mars

When I drilled my Mars I was looking for a ball that I could use on a typical wet/dry fresh house shot.  I took one with the pin out as far as I could get, which in this case was a little over 3 inches, and with as low a top as I could find, which in this case was still 2 1/2 ozs. I put the pin right on my axis and tilted the CG towards the middle of my grip.  What I got was a ball with no flare and a really heavy roll.  It works jthe way I hoped it would. Nice even arc and suprising little deflection. It didn't over-react on the dry but had trouble recovering if I tugged it in on the oil a bit.  A quick spin with a 2000 abralon pad to take the polish off of it did the trick and gave me more room both ways.

Title: Re: Mars
Post by: rotomike on June 07, 2009, 04:04:19 PM
I laid out my Mars pin high  4 1/4 “ to pap cg 4” to pap with an extra hole on my VAL at midline. I bowl on a THS that is blatantly wet dry but carry also is an issue.

I was surprised at how smooth this ball is. Even though I have it drilled strong I do not have to worry about it jumping too hard off of the spot and I do not have to throw it to get it down the lane.

Recovery is great and the continuation through the pins is awesome. I am surprised how well this entry performance ball works.  

It is very versatile I have seen Mars used on the shorter PBAX patterns with great success.

In the shop the shelf appeal has novice bowlers commenting on how they like the colors.

A great benchmark ball for all styles of bowler.

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Mike Sinek
Roto Grip Staff Manager
Kingdom member for life
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: ajensen on June 07, 2009, 11:01:50 PM
This ball is a great add on to the Roto line.

The price is even better.

Unbelievable hitting power.

5x3 drill pattern works great with out of box finish.
With this, it works well for drier conditions.

Same drill pattern with cover scuffed to 2000 or 1000,you'll be able to use on the medium house patterns from start to finish.
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(AJ) Andrew Jensen
 Roto Grip Staffer
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Pask8r17 on July 22, 2009, 01:38:25 PM
15lbs ball, 3" pin kicked out from the ring finger about 2"

First thing I have to say is WOW!  I love this ball.  I throw the ball with mid to high revs, 16mph, and with mid track line on my ball.

This ball is so smooth and very predictable.  I've always had a problem of balls over reacting on me, but this one is perfect.  It gives me length and a very nice smoooooth reaction.  It is also very versitile.  I can use it on a number of shots.  The only thing it didn't like was shark on my pbax league.  But other than that, it is awesome.  I have shot a couple 700 series and even shot my first 300 with this ball.  I think what I like about it the most is that I can really let the ball work and not have to worry about having to muscle it through shots.  Just let it go and let it work its magic.  Not to mention it's pretty too.  Nice color pattern.

Overall - I love it.  It is now my go to ball whenever I run into trouble.  Thanks Roto-Grip!!
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Representing VICE

G-Money Drake

Desert Strike Lanes
Ft Bliss, TX
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Bigmike on March 06, 2010, 02:00:19 PM
See profile for stats.

Lay Out: 4.5" from PAP at 75* PAP angle and 35* VAL angle. The pin ended up above my bridge. No weight hole, this is to be my burn ball.

Surface: I have taken it down by hand to 2000/4000abr.

Purpose: I really didn't have anything in my bag for real burn or shorter patterns.

Lane condition observations: I have mainly thrown this on our house pattern both on the fresh and on broken down second shift conditions. I did get to throw it on the US Open pattern on a wood/guardian imagemaker overlay. On our house pattern, I have to cut my head angle down to get consistant carry. If I leak it too much, it just doesn't get back with my medium rev rate. On the US Open pattern, I was able to actually create slight hold with it. When I miss it is more inside than out and I got away with it a couple of times bowling a qualifier on this pattern.

Final thoughts: This is a great add to the bag for more short and burnt patterns. Heavy handed players will love that they can saw on it and not have this ball turn sideways at the breakpoint. Straighter players will like that the ball doesn't check at there feet and can let them stay right longer than the strong stuff will allow.
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"Why don''t you call me sometime.....when you have no class" ~~Rodney Dangerfield to Sally Kellerman, his college professor in Back to School ~~1986

Mike Craig - Storm Products Pro Shop staff -Columbus, OH
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: n_adams on April 24, 2010, 01:20:34 PM
RH
Rev Rate 450-475
Speed 16.5 by qubica

Ball 3-3.5 pin, 2.5 top weight
Drill 6x4 or there abouts and almost stacked
Cover OOB
Lane Brunswick Gaurdian fresh ths but light and short

Much stronger than anticipated. Really extremely good length but my goodness is the backend angular. Wasn't expecting that from the .018 diff. but ok I'll take it. Going to try another house on Monday and see if plays there. If not I'm going to take and scuff it with a grey or white scotch brite to make it a little sooner and smoother and try again.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: rwagner76 on September 13, 2010, 04:20:08 PM
Mars is drilled 4" pin to pap, ring finger drilled into pin.

This ball does exactly what I hoped for when I bought it. Allows me to play a nice relaxed down and in line (down 2nd arrow at the house I'm rolling it at) and comes in for a crushing hit at the backend. Very controllable hook with a strong finish. Buries the pins just right.

This works out very nicely at this house where my Horizon is too strong most of the time. (my Horizon is my baby, 1st ball out)
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: browncow7 on October 05, 2010, 10:31:11 PM
I got this ball for burnt up shorter patterns. The first time I threw it I knew I made a great choice.
Title: Re: Mars
Post by: 900DJ on January 02, 2011, 05:47:29 PM
LANE CONDITION






Length: 40

 

Volume:


Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS


 



COMMENTS





Likes: Very predictable movement, works great on medium/light volumes.  Covers more boards than expected with very little flare


Dislikes:  Will wiggle on carrydown


 


PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS

 

 

 


Title: Re: Mars
Post by: Midnighter on March 06, 2011, 08:11:50 PM
LANE CONDITION

Length: 40
 
Volume: Medium  

Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): THS

 
COMMENTS

Likes: I like the length and ability to play up the track. Works well in Med - Light oil. Hybrid coverstock is stronger than expected. Orbiter II core creates a great roll and hits hard. Clears corner pins. 

Dislikes: Carry down and heavy oil are kryptonite for the Mars. 

 
PICTURES AND/OR VIDEOS
 
 
 


Midnighter (BKY)
Visionary Bowling