win a ball from Bowling.com

Author Topic: Ion Pro  (Read 8428 times)

BallReviews-scodaddy21

  • Administrator
  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 957
Ion Pro
« on: July 05, 2024, 09:57:11 AM »
Ball NPS Score: 100.00
bowling.com has the largest selection of bowling balls
Click here to shop.

Storm has introduced a groundbreaking innovation following the success of revered models like the !Q Tour and Phaze II. Enter the Storm Ion Pro, Storm Bowling's inaugural asymmetric benchmark ball. It sets a new standard for reliability, offering balanced performance across various lane conditions. Versatile and adaptable, it empowers bowlers to fine-tune their game without the need for multiple balls. With its inclusive design catering to every style and approach, the Ion Pro is a must-have addition to any bowler's arsenal. The Element Tour A.I. Core showcases a unique stacked ellipse design, positioning smaller ellipses at the ends of the X-axis and the widest ellipse at the central point of the Y-axis. Diverging from the cavity designs seen in the Crux™ and Absolute™, this configuration amplifies the dynamic shifts between different layouts. By centralizing mass with a focus on the largest ellipse at the ball's geographic center, the Element Tour A.I. Core achieves a lower RG, making it one of Storm's most strikingly low RG asymmetrical designs to date. In contrast to typical asymmetric weight blocks, where the thinnest portion generating asymmetry lies close to the Y-Axis, the Element employs a stairstep asymmetry approach. Despite the widest part being at the Y-Axis, each subsequent ellipse, though narrower, is offset, intensifying the asymmetry with every step. Finding a coverstock as dependable and adaptable as TX-16 is a challenge in itself. Initially introduced through the Phaze™ II, TX-16 has instilled unwavering confidence in bowlers worldwide over the years. In this hybrid rendition, it combines length and durability, offering a level of versatility that's seldom matched. The Ion Pro sets out to redefine the very essence of "benchmark" in bowling.

Color: Navy/Carbon/Steel
All colors do vary somewhat from the picture shown
Core: Element Tour A.I. Core (14-16#)
Coverstock: TX-16 Hybrid Reactive
Finish: 4000-grit Abralon
RG: 2.47 (based on 15# ball)
Differential: 0.035 (based on 15# ball)
Length: Long
Hook Potential: Medium
Recommended Lane Condition: Medium to Heavy Oil
Fragrance: Kiwi Tart

 

TBSS

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 6
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #1 on: July 05, 2024, 06:52:15 PM »
With all the hype around the debut of this ball after the success of the original IQ, who wouldn’t drill one? Mine is drilled pin down and does not disappoint. As advertised, a true controllable benchmark shape with added cornering power here. If you don’t have one now I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t have one in the future.

StormAndrew

  • Full Member
  • ***
  • Posts: 143
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #2 on: July 07, 2024, 06:38:23 AM »
The next benchmark ball is here with the Ion. Not as weak as a IQ Tour yet not as clean as a Phaze 2; the Ion fits between both those selections. When you need earlier than a Phaze 2 the Ion is a great option to go to. The Ion is versatile as you can close your angles and open them based off what the lane is giving you. This ball has become a staple in my bag and comes with me wherever I go, whether it's to league or tournament play.

Brian Eger

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 32
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #3 on: July 11, 2024, 08:58:44 AM »
Storm – Ion Pro
14-pounds
Layout 5 x 4 x 1.5
Style – stroker
Ball Speed – 14–15 mph at pins
Condition – house pattern - HPL surface
Surface – box condition
I just recently switched to 14-pound equipment after an injury. This is my first new ball at that weight and it’s everything the promotional information states. Sometimes we over-hype something or people think staffers must pump up the new products. In this case, all the hype is correct. There’s not one style of bowler that can’t benefit from this ball.
For the ultimate benchmark ball, I went with my standard layout when trying to get a read on a ball. It was easy for me to get the ball through the fronts and is the ultimate reaction shape for me as it picks up its roll. Mind you, this ball doesn’t have any trouble making a corner if you really wanted to get your hand in it.
My summer team and all of us were using the Ion Pro last night. One senior player with a very low rev rate, myself newly minted senior with still a fair amount of roll and my son, a two-handed, high rev rate player. Again, this ball fits any type of style. The Ion is very receptive to rotation changes, speed changes and the versatility to play across the lane.
When you can appeal to that wide of range of player, the team in Utah has outdone themselves. I’d be interested in polishing one up to see what type of reaction shape it gives. I no doubt will drill multiples of this piece. If you’re in the market for a new ball, I can’t recommend a ball any more highly than the Ion Pro.

Brian Eger

chasev97

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 49
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #4 on: July 12, 2024, 09:55:54 AM »
Ion Pro is a fresh take on a must-have shape! This reinvention of the benchmark ball provides a smooth shape that is both predictable and dynamic. This ball feels like a torquier IQ Tour Solid with a slightly stronger cover. The TX-16 formula feels familiar, yet the hybrid version featured here creates a little more length and allows this ball to handle more oil than the IQ Tour without being as strong/early as the Phaze 2. This ball is exactly what I want out of a benchmark ball: early, smooth, and predictable. And like any true benchmark ball, it fits right in the middle of my bag! This ball is one-of-a-kind. Available now at your local Storm VIP Pro Shop!

-Chase Valenzuela

Michael Slatky

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 75
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #5 on: July 14, 2024, 08:28:49 PM »

Storm
Ion Pro
Coverstock: TX-16 Hybrid Reactive
Finish: 4000 Grit Abralon
Core: Element Tour A.I.
(14 pd)
RG: 2.51
Differential: 0.036
Int Diff: 0.010

Layout #1: 3 x 5 x 5 - 2LS
Layout #2: 2 x 6 x 5 - 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 Ion Pro features the newer Amplfied Inertia (A.I.) core technology. This core as you would expect will help the Ion Pro in providing a predictable shape at the end of the pattern. As A.I. core technology has been previously tested that means a few extra percentage points of carry can be anticipated.

For my review I compared my Ion Pros to the famous and long standing !Q Tour. As advertised by SPI, the Ion Pro falls between the Phaze II and !Q Tour. For me, the Ion Pros lean more toward the !Q side of the arsenal. Also, the layouts I chose for my Ion Pros allow me to keep my angles tighter and less steep for sport patterns I prefer to play on.

Both of my Ion Pros I did roll on a standard 43' house pattern to test with the !Q Tour. Ion Pro layout #1 is new for me and I was impressed with this one. Basically it is a great option for me when jumping out of urethane or need good control off the spot. It allowed me to blend the wet/dry as a rev dominant player. Ion Pro layout #2 simply transitions smoothly through all phases of ball motion. In comparison, my !Q Tour gets offline a touch quicker. I feel the Ion Pros give me more strength and reliability overall. If I could make one change I would adjust layout #2 to more of my standard 5 x 4 x 3 - 2LS. Simply to see all the versatility these Ion Pros have.

I recommend the the Storm Ion Pro for the player seeking straighter angles as lanes transition. I'm definitely excited about this ball from Storm. Please be sure to visit your favorite pro shop today or https://youtube.com/channel/UC1VA-MgFBo9mIZde-G3T11A for my occasional ball videos. Be sure to grab your Storm Ion Pro today!

Michael Slatky
900 Global Staff Member
York, PA


strikingresults-atl

  • Full Member
  • ***
  • Posts: 182
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #6 on: July 21, 2024, 08:39:25 PM »
Storm Ion Pro Ball Review Layout VLS-4.75x4.25x1.50 Dual Angle-52x4.75x23 Surface -2000 Grit Storm Ion Pro uses a brand new core with AI Technology wrapped TX-16 in a hybrid version.Storm is creating another benchmark motion to compliment their two goats. Storm Ion Pro will bridge the gap between the high end asymmetricals and their stong symmetricals. I compared the ion pro to the Phaze 2 and the IQ tour solid in my video and for me the ion pro had more shape downlane but will great control.I can definitely see the ion pro as my first ball out of the bag with great versatility. I can definitely see different layouts and surface preps on the Ion pro to create some different options. Available June 21st!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

https://youtu.be/w5uspdRMhNE?si=4EG0yQ1xkcpJ0uD4

Dannial Cohen

PD300

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 50
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #7 on: July 24, 2024, 07:27:23 AM »
Storm Ion Pro – WWRD 6/21/2024

Cover: TX-16 Hybrid Reactive Core: Element Tour A.I. RG: 2.47 RG. Diff.: 0.035 Finish: 4000-Grit Abralon Fragrance: Kiwi Tart Storm’s new Ion Pro is a Hybrid Asymmetric Piece. This piece is good for Heavy-Medium Volume Patterns. 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, CG kicked out 1” from the palm, and Mass Bias 1 1/2” Right of the Thumb. I threw this on a burned up 43’ house pattern. Out of Box ball motion was clean through the fronts with a strong continuous motion in the backend. I compared this piece to the Phaze II (3-3 Right) starts earlier in the mids wth a smooth motion on the backend and IQ Tour (4-4 Right) was more of a smooth rolling piece. This piece fits between the Phaze II and IQ Tour. This is a Versatile piece that fits all styles of bowlers. Check out the Ball motion Video on my YouTube Page: https://youtu.be/a8rq3_4_8PM

ZackNewman300

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 45
  • We ain't ever getting older.
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #8 on: July 28, 2024, 03:16:44 PM »
The highly anticipated Storm Ion Pro brings the next evolution in cover technology with the TX-16 hybrid cover, a variation of the TX-16 solid cover found on the Phaze 2. What is unique about this ball, in addition to A.I. outer core technology, is an asymmetric core in the "benchmark" category. Upon first throwing it, my initial impression was a stronger, "torque-ier" IQ Tour. Definitely earlier and smoother, but still able to handle 4th arrow without any issues. Flattening my hand, the ball had no trouble rolling off of friction going up 8 board and having a controlled reaction. I personally love equipment in the .025-.040 diff. range so this one was at the top of my list to get drilled up. It can absolutely be the first ball out of your bag for league if you have any kind of friction to use. Probably not the ideal choice for something super heavy, but for most typical league conditions I can see this being ball #1 80% of the time. Comparing directly to the IQ Tour Solid on the same lane, the IQ was longer and sharper down the lane compared to the Ion. Those two could possibly make a good 1-2 combo, though I think the Ion and IQ Tour Pearl would have more separation.
Zack Newman
900 Global Amateur Staff
TikTok: Zackbowlsandsellshomes

sportshot

  • Full Member
  • ***
  • Posts: 140
Ion Pro
« Reply #9 on: July 28, 2024, 06:22:55 PM »
Ball Specs:
Storm Ion Pro
TX-16 Hybrid Reactive
A.I. Asymmetric Core
Finish 4000 Abralon
Layout 4.5 x4 with 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:
I have never really been able to do well with the I.Q. Tour Navy, I know weird right? But then I totally love the Phase Two and completely trust it. So not knowing what to expect from the Ion Pro we drilled it up and went to the lanes. It only took a few shots to know I was going to be very happy with this ball. The 4000 grit surface helps the ball go long enough and the Mass Bias does not pull the ball down too soon. The A.I. Core hit is noticeable on this ball and the pins seem to bounce around quite a bit upon impact. Sometimes the A.I. hit seems to be enhanced with certain balls for me. The roll is stable and predictable, with just the right amount of motion on the back end. This ball creates a unique and better angle for me than the Tour Navy. I hear the term benchmark a lot but feel Storm nailed that reaction on this one. In my opinion benchmark balls have more motion today than we expected on them a few years back. I put this ball between my Gem and Tour Dynamix in total hook.This ball should work well for many styles of play. I did most my testing with the Ion Pro on a house shot and this ball blended out the pattern without skidding on the wet or jerking on the dry, this ball is a keeper!

Summary:
The Ion Pro has a great benchmark motion.
The hit and carry are excellent on the Ion Pro.
This ball could be essential in a lot of player’s bags.

Glenn Wendel
Storm Pro Shop Staff
gwendel@comcast.net
www.stormbowling.com

Video Link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ke717aOMGd0&error=0
Sportshot64@comcast.net
www.stormbowling.com

PBA Member
Storm Staff Member
Turbo Staff Member

9orbetter

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 883
Ion Pro by K. Cordy
« Reply #10 on: August 04, 2024, 06:19:55 PM »
LANE CONDITION

Length: 41'
Volume: Medium-Heavy
Pattern: THS
Layout: 4 3/4 x 3 1/4 x 1

COMMENTS

The Storm Ion Pro has been generating quite a buzz among bowlers for its impressive performance, balance and versatility. The Benchmark Asymmetrical a first for Storm.

Features the TX-16 Hybrid Reactive coverstock and the Element Tour AI core. This combination provides a unique blend of control and power, making it a great benchmark ball for many bowlers.

The TX-16 Hybrid coverstock is finished at 4000 Abralon, offering a good balance between traction and smoothness, while the Element Tour AI core is a low RG, low differential asymmetrical design, which helps the ball rev up quickly and provides strong midlane traction, a strong move at the breakpoint with a surprising amount of angularity, providing a consistent and reliable reaction.

Compared to my Roto Grip X-Cell, the Ion Pro has a bit more total hook and a stronger move at the breakpoint. It is also more angular off the spot compared to the Storm Phaze ll and IQ Tour, making it a versatile option.

For Tweeners and Strokers like myself the ball's versatility makes it suitable for different styles, with users appreciating its ability to handle various conditions without losing its effectiveness. I can stay in my comfort zones longer which boost the confidence in game usage

The Storm Ion Pro is a solid choice for bowlers looking for a reliable benchmark ball. Its combination of the TX-16 Hybrid Reactive coverstock and Element Tour AI core provides a versatile and powerful reaction that can adapt to different lane conditions. Whether you're a cranker, tweener, or stroker, the Ion Pro offers a consistent and strong performance that can help elevate your game
Keith Cordy
900 Global Staff Ambassador
#GoGlobal
#SquadRG
#stormnation
#12InARowProShop
#CustomThumbzProshop
#JoPoGrips

rotogrip_rick

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 704
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #11 on: August 06, 2024, 03:12:44 PM »
Storm Ion Pro
Core and cover: Element Tour core with A.I. technology with TX-16 HYBRID coverstock
Box finish: 4000 grit abralon --- Tested: at box condition and with Storm Rough Edge finishing product
Layout: 5 ½ x 5 x 5 – tested on 44ft house pattern and a 50ft USBC Junior Gold pattern
What I liked and found about the all new Ion Pro is the ball was very STABLE on both patterns I bowled on, may it have been the house pattern or the tougher 50ft USBC Junior Gold pattern. On the house pattern, the Ion Pro reacted similar to my Roto Grip Tour Dynam-X with a little extra “kick” on the back part of the pattern and onto the dry part of the lane. Adding Storm’s Rough Edge finishing product to the coverstock calmed the backend down to where it was not over reacting on the dry part of the lane. It basically promoted the surface to looking like “lane shine” condition without wearing down the peaks and valleys on the TX-16 HYBRID coverstock. Which brings me to the next topic: TX-16 has been a major player in the coverstock game for years, and NOW, for the first time ever Storm made it into a HYBRID coverstock, which is ESSENTIAL for today’s playing conditions and having TX-16 Hybrid on an asymmetrical core is UNIQUE for a “benchmark” ball. My SPI arsenal has changed a little bit this summer with SPI adding the Ion Pro and Roto Grip X-Cell to the line-up. My current arsenal is from weaker to stronger is: Roto Grip X-Ray at box finish with a super smooth 5” pin to pap layout, Roto Grip X-Ray with Rough Edge on it with a strong 4” pin to pap layout, Storm Lighting Blackout, Storm Ion Pro, Roto Grip Attention Star, Roto Grip X-Cell. That is one of the BEST summer arsenals I can remember having in the past 5 years at least. The Ion Pro is readily available at your local pro shops and watch for more SPI Matchmaker Live! Events coming to a bowling center near you. Check out my YouTube channel for my Ion Pro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISymRjy-IW0.
Thanks to my sponsors and partners:
Roto Grip, Storm and 900 Global, Vise Inserts, Coolwick, Bowlers’ Supply and ABC North Lanes and Lounge.

Scoop99

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 20
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #12 on: August 14, 2024, 10:03:50 AM »
Sam Cooper. Roto Grip Amateur Staffer. The ION Pro impressed me right from the start. The newest benchmark reaction from Storm is a different combination than we have seen in the past. We have the TX-16 hybrid cover stock. Paired with the new Element Tour A.I. Core which gives this ball a differential of .035 and intermediate differential of .014(15lbs). This combination gives you the confidence that this ball will consistently read the lanes and tell you what the lane is doing. In terms of my bag it is a step down from a Summit or a Optimum Idol, but stronger than a IQ Tour solid. I would like Storm to give us another ball with a similar combination already.

The first night I tested this ball was on the 37’ Viper pattern. I was impressed the first game I threw the ION.  This was after 3 games of qualifying I decided to try it out. I hit the ball with a 2000 abralon pad. This surface also seems to be where it works best for me if I am going to throw it on fresh (4000 can be too over under for me). A lot of urethane was being used and the ION Pro ignored the urethane carry down on the lanes and gave me a consistent reaction to get to the pocket. Next night was on 42’ Mark Roth pattern. There was a lot of friction to the right and a puddle in the middle of the lane. I could throw the ION to the friction, and it would do the right thing every time (as long as the operator threw it correctly). It just gives you a smooth reaction that you can use on a variety of patterns. Any tournament bowler should have this ball in the bag no matter what condition you are bowling on. This ball would also be good for anyone that likes to see a smooth consistent reaction.

Bigmike

  • Hero Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1068
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #13 on: August 16, 2024, 06:55:27 AM »
I drilled up my ION PRO with my standard 4.5 x 4 x 2 layout that I use on lower diff balls. I have tweaked the surface at 1500 to 3000.

The ION PRO is a good piece for the center that I bowl at with their 20+ year old synthetic panels. With the 1500 surface, the ION PRO is just under my THE ROAD & it might have just a little more pick up than my IQ TOUR RUBY. The ION PRO is one that I can keep in front of me and still get good roll off the medium/dryer patterns when they get a little wet/dry. I can also ball up to THE ROAD when I get pushed left or ball down to the IQ RUBY when I need to open up the lane to the right.

Put this one in your bag if you are bowling on worn surfaces and your IQ Ruby is still not enough off the spot to carry with. This is also a good one to put in between your PHAZE II and IQ TOUR.
"Tell me Cup, how does a great ball striker like you shoot an 83? Well I lipped out this putt on 18......"

Mike Craig - Storm Bowling Amateur Staff - Westerville, OH

william.tefft

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 80
Re: Ion Pro
« Reply #14 on: August 20, 2024, 01:03:26 PM »
Ball Specs: ION Pro
Color: Navy/Carbon/Steel
Coverstock: TX-16 Hybrid
Core: Element Tour AI Core
Factory Finish: 4000 Grit
Fragrance: Kiwi Tart

Review:
The Storm Ion Pro is highly versatile, performing well on a variety of lane conditions, from medium to heavy oil. It is particularly effective for bowlers who prefer a strong mid-lane reaction with a smooth, controlled backend. The ball's hybrid coverstock allows it to adjust well to different surface preparations, making it easy to fine-tune its reaction to match specific lane conditions or a bowler's unique style. The Ion Pro is also a great option for bowlers who need a reliable benchmark ball. Its predictable motion and strong backend make it a solid choice for getting a read on the lanes and determining the best line to play. Whether you’re a competitive bowler looking for a reliable option to tackle challenging oil patterns or a league player in need of a versatile ball for different conditions, the Ion Pro offers a great balance of power, control, and versatility. Its striking appearance and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any bowler’s arsenal, giving you the confidence to perform at your best in any situation.

Will Tefft
Storm Staff Member
will@parklanes.net
www.strombowling.com
#Stromnation