- Mako

First Impressions
The Track Mako was introduced in January 2017 as the new flagship in the high-performance segment and positioned itself as the most aggressive option in the lineup at the time. Visually, the ball stands out with its matte solid surface in Navy, Orange and Sky Blue. Inside works the asymmetric Mako Core, which uses a dual-density design to generate specific motion characteristics. In the 15-pound version, this core delivers a very low RG of 2.48, a high differential of 0.053 and an intermediate differential of 0.015. Wrapped around this technology is the QR-10 Solid coverstock, which comes out of the box with a coarse 500/2000 Abralon finish. This combination of low RG and aggressive surface points to an extremely early revving and massive traction in oil, with the core providing continuous motion through the pin deck.
Comparison To put the Track Mako's performance in context, a comparison with the popular Track Paradox makes sense. While the Paradox with its i-Core showed a very specific, almost arcing motion, the Mako delivers an even earlier reaction and overall more total hook on heavy oil thanks to the new core and the stronger cover. Compared to the Storm Alpha Crux, a direct competitor for similar conditions, the Mako shows comparable traction in the heads, but often retains a bit more energy for the pocket, since the QR-10 cover responds to friction marginally quicker than the Crux's GI-16. Against the Hammer Scandal (symmetric, solid), the Mako offers a more defined change of direction at the breakpoint due to its asymmetry. While the Scandal reads the oil very evenly, the Mako generates a stronger torque effect in the transition zone through its intermediate differential.
On the Lanes The ideal application for the Track Mako clearly lies on heavy oil patterns or long sport patterns where traction is the top priority. It works as a classic "snowplow" on fresh oil: its rough surface immediately digs into the lane and keeps the ball from sliding through the fast part of the heads (hydroplaning). If you throw the ball fast, it is often indispensable for getting the ball into a roll early enough. If you play with lower speed, though, you should treat it with caution, since it can burn up energy very quickly on drier lanes or in transition and then arrive at the pins without power. When balls like the Track Cyborg Pearl or Kinetic skid too long and miss the breakpoint, the Mako provides the necessary security and stability to find the pocket reliably.