These secondary tier ball companies are quite unique in their bowling ball philosophy and marketing that differs from the "mother ship". They run on a limited budget; cater and target a certain type of bowler. I really enjoy the late model Roto Grip (Storm) balls (Saturn, Venus, Oracle Vision; Epic Saga on the way), they offer extreme value and great bb technology. As stated earlier, every ball release means something. They don't just impregnate the market with bowling balls.
Track (Columbia) more recently is going this route also, and is this kind of company, limited releases, extreme technology. Hammer (Ebonite) must be mentioned also is this group. Dynothane, another storm/columbia relationship 2nd tier company, also, I hear makes wonderful equipment.
Less is more. In the case of Roto Grip has to be my favorite. Great web page, great management, great communication with the end users (Bowlers). If you send them a email or phone them with a question or problem, you will be pleased with their service level. Hank Boomershine and Roger Noordhoek know the business and do it well. In my mind Roto Grip is the best.
<small side note about Track:>Track with recent management and marketing shakeout is experiencing fallout, only time will tell, what the future has to offer for Track. My hope is for the best. Under Del Warren, the company was jump started, Phil Cardinale is running the show now. Certainly, not holding my breath, it's in their hands to keep up the good work; continuity. The Machines are all awesome; glad I found them, will continue to bowl with them, as conditions dictate ie A shot. Wait and see attitude. Business is Business; no hard feelings, just realistic about the situation.<end of small side note: sorry had to say it>
In the mean time Columbia and Storm products fit my game perfectly, and would be happy with any of the balls they offer. But smaller companies (divisions) seem to be a bit more kinder to the bowler, and more approachable, more in touch with the bowler.
Roto Grip is king of them all! Great company.
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KEG LERX
"The pins adhere to the law of the "Golden Rule"."
Old Ball Arsenal Registry (includes drilling Specs)still working on the new one @ Allbowling.comTrack to Bowl, Columbia to Throw, RG to Roll.
Edited on 11/15/2006 10:23 AM