- AMForce 4

First Impressions
Released in September 1997, the AMF AMForce 4 sits at the very top of the food chain within the AMForce System series. While the entire series shares a uniform look in a deep "Indigo Pearl," this powerhouse identifies itself clearly by its bright orange logo. Technically it differs massively from its smaller siblings: inside works an aggressive configuration of the VersaCore system ("Dual Core, Double Shell with One Torque Block"), which produces a low RG and a very high differential. This gives the ball an enormous flare potential of over 6 inches. The cover, a further developed form of the VersaCover reactive material, comes with an "800-grit Matte Polish" finish. This treatment takes away the typical pearl gloss and replaces it with a tacky sheen that helps the ball build traction in the oil early despite its pearl base.
Comparison
Compared directly to the AMF AMForce 3 (green logo), which is designed as a classic skid/snap ball, the AMForce 4 acts considerably more dominant and earlier. Where the AMForce 3 ignores the heads and only tips late, the AMForce 4 uses its high differential to roll heavy already in the midlane and to create a continuous, almost unstoppable move to the pocket. Compared to the market leader of the day, the Brunswick Danger Zone, the AMForce 4 often offers an even stronger "kick" in the final phase thanks to its asymmetrically influenced torque block when there is a lot of oil on the lane. It positions itself in the performance class of a Columbia 300 Primal Rage or Ebonite Werewolf, though the AMF-typical matte polish surface often makes it react somewhat more versatilely to "wet/dry" conditions than pure sanded solids.
On the Lanes
The AMF AMForce 4 is explicitly built for "maximum hook" on heavy oil conditions or lanes with heavy carrydown. It is the problem solver when weaker balls drown in the soup and no longer turn over. Thanks to the strong flare potential it literally digs its way through the oil and constantly presents fresh surface to the lane. It works excellently for strokers and for players with less hand rotation who need technical help to get the ball to hook. On dry lanes, however, it should be handled with care, since it tends to burn up energy too early there and go flat into the pins.