I don't think it is fair to right off the equipment just because they are good bowlers throwing them. Yes, Norm Duke and Pete Weber are amazing, and would probably be successful with any company. If you look at the young guys making a name for themselves, most of the guys making the show are throwing Storm or Roto. Maybe the best bowlers are throwing Storm because it is the best to throw. I think Chris Barnes is one of the best talents on the PBA, but I really think Columbia equipment lets him down. If he threw Storm, Ebonite, or Track I think he would win twice as often.
To the average joe, any ball drilled well will work. Lots of people think that whatever they throw is the best ball for them. As a person who drills balls from all companies, and sees them thrown in league and tournaments, I think it is easy to see which balls are better. Or look at the Sales report of the distributors. My February 2012 report from Complete Bowling Service shows the 5 balls that sold the most out of their warehouse. Ready for this? 1. Defiant (ROTO GRIP) 2. Frantic (STORM) 3. Taboo (HAMMER) 4. Crossroad (STORM) 5. Modern Marvel (STORM) I think that says a lot! I know not everyone will agree, and every company makes good balls sometimes. Storm makes the best balls and is the most consistent.
Also, just as a side note, Brunswick makes their balls in Mexico. So I recommend Storm/Roto Grip/Ebonite/Track/Hammer/Columbia/900 Global/Lane #1 who all make their balls in the United States.
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