- Nirvana

First Impressions
The Columbia 300 Swerve draws plenty of attention with its aggressive red, white and blue solid design. At its center works the proven asymmetric Swerve core, which carries a 2.470 RG, a strong 0.052 differential and a 0.007 intermediate differential. This core is wrapped in the Reflex Solid coverstock, finished with a dull 500 and 2000 Abralon surface. The low RG lets the core rotate very defined, which in combination with the tacky surface should have the ball dominating the heads and producing a steady, asymmetric motion.
Comparison
Compared directly to the Columbia 300 Swerve FX with its polished pearl cover, the original Swerve shows a drastically earlier and far rounder, more controlled reaction. Against the Storm Phaze II the Swerve behaves similarly, but the slightly asymmetric core often generates an even more consistent change of direction at the breakpoint. Once transition sets in during the block and friction builds on the outside boards, the solid surface only stores a limited amount of energy. It needs a solid oil base in the heads.
On the Lanes
The Columbia 300 Swerve was developed for use on medium to heavy lane conditions. It lets you generate the hook needed to cross the boards effectively and safely even on fresh oil. The asymmetric core should optimize carry through a steady, heavy and consistent entry angle into the pocket. For extremely dry conditions, however, this ball is not suitable; it uses up its energy too early and hits flat into the pins.