- Messenger 2019

First Impressions
The Columbia 300 Messenger (2019 release) marks the return of one of the best-known names in bowling. In May 2019 this line was reissued in several color combinations (including Red/Black, Black/Gold, Pink/Purple). Technically, the ball sits in the "entry level performance" segment. At its heart is the updated Messenger Symmetric core, which with a high 2.57 RG and a low 0.021 differential (at 15 lbs) is extremely rev-friendly and lets the ball travel straight for a long time. The big change from the historic original is the cover: here the Super Flex Pearl Reactive coverstock is used, additionally enhanced with the patented HyperShock technology. This technology, previously found only in high-performance balls, should improve energy transfer to the pins. Out of the box the ball is sanded with 500/2000 Abralon and then polished to a high gloss with Powerhouse Factory Finish Polish.
Comparison
Compared with the Columbia 300 Beast available at the same time, the Messenger (2019) comes across as a touch more dynamic at the pin deck. While the Beast is aimed primarily at maximum length, the Messenger offers what feels like more "hit" thanks to the HyperShock technology and deflects less when it meets the pins. Compared with the Storm Tropical Surge, the Messenger shows a similarly late reaction, but tends to be somewhat smoother and more controlled at the breakpoint instead of jumping abruptly. Next to a Brunswick Rhino, the Super Flex cover often gives the Messenger a slightly cleaner skid through the heads, which makes it even more resistant to burning up early on extremely dry heads.
On the Lanes
The Columbia 300 Messenger is the ultimate answer for dry lanes and burned-up house shots. It is designed to create maximum length when stronger balls are already hooking at the arrows. For beginners it is an excellent first ball, offering a controllable curve without being overwhelming. Advanced and tournament players use it as a "burner ball": late in a tournament, when the heads are completely dried out ("fried heads"), the Messenger lets you stand farther right (for right-handers) and play straight up the oil line without the ball overreacting. It absolutely needs friction on the backend (dry) to work effectively; in oil it will show almost no direction change due to its lack of flare potential.