Ball: Pin 4 1/2 from PAP 2 1/4 above my midline MB 4 inches from PAP. I left the factory finish on the ball.
Lane Conditions: 36ft buffed to 44ft heavy oil in the middle, tapers out to the gutter. Wood lanes
HOOK:
Heavy Oil- The Machine is very interesting. It can cover anything form medium to heavy conditions. With a coverstock adjustment to a lower grit I believe the Machine would cover heavy oil with ease.
Medium Oil- With the OOB finish the Machine can cover medium patterns. For a bowler with alot of hand they may need to put a coat of Magic Shine on it. With the OOB finish most bowlers are going to need to keep it in the oil as long as possible.
Light Oil- Being asymmetrical and having a MB rating as high as the Machine I believe with the proper layout and surface prep a bowler could get the Machine playable on lighter patterns.........BUT I would not suggest anyone do so. On lighter oil the Machine should stay in the bag.
Total Hook:
The Machine covers a ton of boards, even for those that don't have much hand. Without a surface adjustment you shouldn't attempt to use it on a flood unless you have MEGA REVS on a ball.
9 out of 10
Control:
The Machine helps me control O/U. In order to use the Machine as a control type ball you are going to need to have enough head oil to do so.
Expected Reaction:
I expected the Machine to be exactly what it turned out to be for me. It is the strongest ball I have for league patterns. It clears the heads well and starts a strong midlane roll at about 26-30ft and as the oil changes from heavy to buff it continues the entire way through the pin deck.
Readability:
For me the Machine is far too strong to read a pattern with.
Strengths:
Strong midlane and backend reaction. The Machine handles carrydown very well as long as there is enough head oil left to help the ball retain energy down the lane.
Weaknesses:
With the factory finish the Machine will not be able to handle a flood, but anything under a flood and it is fine. Keep the Machine in the bag whe the lanes are dry, especially if the heads are dry.
Placement:
For me the Machine fits perfectly between the Robo Rule and the Arsenal Artillery. When there is too much oil for the Machine I can grab the Robo and know it will work......and if the Machine makes too strong of a move the Artillery is perfect.
Comments:
The Machine is a special ball. It is one of those balls that comes along and every bowler should have it. It is strong, but it is extremely versatile. I have not found it unplayable on any pattern I have faced with it. Track has hit a homerun with this ball......I just hope bowlers don't miss out on it.
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C-G Pro Shop (owner/operator)
Youngstown Ohio
Track Intl.-Amateur/Pro Shop Staff
www.trackbowling.comwww.startabowlingrevolution.comTag Team Member #1