Brunswick Knock Out • Hammer Black Widow 2.0 • Hammer Web M.B. Comparison

Ball used for comparison – Hammer Web T.E. Hybrid as the base reaction and has been drilled with a layout of 4-1/4×30. All balls when tested were used with their box finish. 

Brunswick Knock Out
(Layout: 4-3/4”x30)

For a solid, this ball will clear the heads (at least on a fresh house pattern) and has a smooth, continuous move at the end of the pattern. From a rolling hand position to a release that creates more axis rotation the Knockout had different change in direction but still very versatile.

Comparing it to a Hammer Web Tour Hybrid (drilled close, 1/2″ pin closer to PAP) the Knock Out was 2/2 left and had more miss room to the right down lane. It also handled more volume than the Web T.E. Hybrid. Slower speed bowlers or bowlers that bowl on a lot of friction may need to adjust the cover or choose a ball designed for lighter volumes.

Hammer Black Widow 2.0 (Layout: 45×5”x25)

The Black Widow 2.0 gives the familiar shape as the original released in 2006. With an updated coverstock to handle today’s slicker conditioners, the R&D team hit this on the nose. Comparing it to the Web T.E. Hybrid, the BW 2.0 was 4/4 left and had a stronger back end reaction. Designed for medium to heavy volumes, it fits the bill. The cover might pick up lane shine quickly, but can be touched up with a pad or left as is to calm it down if that is needed in the environment you bowl on. The box finish seems too much for me on fresh (cliffed), but as the pattern developed I was able to use it with more confidence.

Hammer Web M.B (Layout: 45×5”x25)

Drilled the same as the BW 2.0, with the Web M.B. I could play in the same zone as the Web T.E. Hybrid but with a longer launch path and a more angular motion off the pattern. The combination of both Asym balls would make a good 1-2 punch. There’s enough difference in lengths, shapes and versatility to last a 3 and maybe 4 game league sessions. I could see straighter players using a Solid or Hybrid Sym then switch to the Web M.B. when the lanes transition or adjust the surface to get the ball to pick up motion earlier

These are my views and your results may vary. Please go to the FTF Ball Comparison Info post to see how I was able to get the above information. You can also download a PDF of the information in this post to read at your convenience.

It’s important to know your personal specs to help you make the proper choices for your game and increase your scoring. I believe bowling balls are tools and using the ones that work against your specs, skill set and environment will cause issues.

You can always contact me with any questions or schedule a consultation session on your current equipment. Visit the Coaching & Services page on our website, email us at www.info@filltheframes.com or you call and text messages to (310) 784-1901.

Thanks, be well & safe!
Juan Fonseca
Fill The Frames Bowling Services