- Crucial Phaze

First Impressions
The Storm Crucial Phaze comes in an attractive black/copper/red color scheme and was designed as an overseas release specifically for the Asian market. Underneath the cover works the proven Velocity core with a 2.540 RG and a 0.041 differential at 15 pounds. The symmetrical core construction should deliver a predictable and controlled ball reaction. The cover is the R3S Pearl Reactive system, which ships from the factory polished to 1500 grit. This combination of pearl cover and polished surface points to a ball built for longer length through the heads.
Comparison
Compared to the Storm Phaze II, the Crucial Phaze is noticeably tamer in its overall reaction. Where the Phaze II with its TX-16 solid cover and 3000 Abralon surface grabs earlier and offers more hook potential, the Crucial Phaze with its pearl formulation and more polished surface is set up for less aggressive lane conditions. The higher RG of the Crucial Phaze results in later rotation and less traction through the transition. The comparison to the original Storm Phaze is also interesting, as it likewise used a pearl cover but came with different technical specifications. The lower differential of the Crucial Phaze points to less flare potential and therefore a more moderate hook motion.
On the Lanes
The Storm Crucial Phaze is designed for medium oil volumes and suits you particularly well if you're looking for a controlled ball reaction without excessive aggressiveness. The pearl reactive surface lets the ball develop length before it starts its hook motion. Strokers and rev/speed-matched bowlers benefit from the predictable character of the Velocity core, while the polished surface should still work on slightly drier conditions. The ball is especially suited to situations where aggressive solid reactive balls grab too early or react too strongly. As an overseas release it offers an interesting alternative to the standard US releases and can serve as a stepping ball between pearl and solid coverstock options.