- Master Son!Q

First Impressions
Released in August 2018, the Storm Master Son!Q adds a technically fascinating variant to the highly successful Son!Q line. Where the original was known for its quick reaction, the Master Son!Q takes a different route. Inside works the extremely low-RG Centripetal HD core, which with a 2.47 RG and a 0.047 differential (at 15 lbs) delivers very early revving and stable rotation. The decisive change is in the cover: Storm uses the NRG-2 Pearl Reactive coverstock here. What makes it special is that this pearl cover isn't polished, but comes out of the box with a 3000 grit Abralon finish. This combination of nanotechnology cover (NRG), pearl additives and a matte surface gives the gold/bronze-colored ball a unique character: it offers the chemical aggressiveness of a high-end ball, but the pearl component keeps it from burning up too early.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Storm Son!Q (Gold/Blue), the Master Son!Q reads earlier and rolls considerably rounder. While the original Son!Q skids through the heads and snaps almost aggressively at the breakpoint, the Master Son!Q uses the 3000 finish and the nano cover to read the midlane much more strongly and make the transition smoother. It essentially acts as the link between the Storm Phaze II and the original Son!Q. It's cleaner through the heads than a Phaze II, but thanks to the NRG-2 chemistry it offers nearly as much traction in oil. Set against a Roto Grip Idol Pearl, the Master Son!Q comes across as more stable and less touchy on oil lines, since the matte surface controls the skid where shiny pearls often lose their hold.
On the Lanes
The Storm Master Son!Q is the definition of a benchmark ball for medium to heavier oil patterns. It solves the problem many bowlers have when pure solids hook too early but shiny pearls still skid too far. The matte pearl surface lets it glide safely through the heads, but it builds friction reliably without jumping off the spot uncontrollably. It's ideal for controlling the pocket and works excellently as the first ball out of the bag on fresh sport patterns or demanding house shots. It smooths out the reaction at the end of the pattern and provides solid carry, since it rolls heavy through the pins. It also responds very well to surface adjustments: with polish it gets longer, but keeps the strong pull of the Centripetal core.