Ball Review: Reality

Data Table

All data is quoted from 900 Global Reality Tech Sheet

Overview

The Reality is the first ball from 900 Global which uses the solid version of the S84 Response coverstock. The pearlised version of this coverstock was previously used in the Volatility Torque, and made use of new technology which promoted up to 20% larger pore sizes that allows for better traction in the oil.

It also introduces the Disturbance Core, that utilises a ‘modified scutoid geometric shape’ which has a base of 6 sides and an apex of 5 sides, thus creating asymmetry and the required RG and Differential values. Interestingly, this shape was first described mathematically in 2018 by Gómez-Gálvez et al. in a paper entitled ‘Scutoids are a geometrical solution to three-dimensional packing of epithelia’, and named after a part of a beetle which it resembles. Whether or not it works, it does demonstrate 900 Global’s commitment to innovation. The Reality is often compared to Storm’s Proton Physix because they were both released at a similar time with quite similar tech specs as well. I don’t have a Proton Physix myself, but anecdotally it seems the Reality does go a little longer. Do let me know if you have experience using both!

How does it perform?

Speed-Dominant Bowlers

The Reality cuts through the heads much cleaner than you would expect from a dull surface ball, especially for speed-dominant bowlers. Its motion is strong and continuous with a really strong backend. On fresh patterns, it gets through the oil smoothly, but when it touches friction, it responds strongly through the backend without losing energy as it drives through the pins. The Reality can function as a benchmark ball due to its versatility as it reads the lane like a solid ball, but not too early such that it conserves energy at the backend as well without rolling outrolling outPhenomenon when a ball completes its acceleration and reaches a stable roll, but has not hit the pins yet, most often resulting in a weak shot. However, even if you start with something else, the Reality allows you to move deeper inside when the lanes break down without losing carry, which is something speed-dominant bowlers should appreciate.

Rev-Dominant Bowlers

For rev-dominant bowlers, the Reality is ideal for high volumevolumeThe amount of oil that is applied to a lane, usually measured in millilitres sport shots as it allows you to open up the lanes and play bigger angles than you normally would on these patterns, while still retaining pin action. It also functions well during transition due to its strong surface. Its strong motion allows you to maintain a consistent reaction through carry-downcarry-downPhenomenon during lane transition where the ball tends to skid more. This happens because balls pick up oil from the oilier, front part of the lane, and leave them on the drier, back part of the lane or when the lanes get a little patchypatchyInformal term used to describe the lane having uneven regions of high and low volume of oil, causing inconsistent ball reaction, all without getting too ‘jumpy’. In fact, the Reality is also a popular choice on house shots as well especially if you want to prioritise pin carry over a controllable motion.