- Black Widow Viz-A-Ball

First Impressions
The Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball presents itself as the first Viz-A-Ball to feature the iconic Gas Mask core from the Black Widow performance line. The polyester coverstock comes with a Crown Factory Polish surface and offers low hook potential with plenty of length. On the technical side, the ball shows a 2.480 RG at 15 pounds, a 0.058 differential and an asymmetric intermediate differential of 0.013. The combination of the Gas Mask core and the carbon fiber outer core should provide durability and power, while the characteristic Black Widow graphics with the familiar spider imagery draw plenty of attention.
Comparison
Compared to the reactive members of the Black Widow series, the Viz-A-Ball shows clearly different characteristics. While other Black Widow models offer significant hook potential, the Viz-A-Ball is designed as a spare ball with a hard polyester cover that isn't built for hook potential, though it can allow limited movement under very dry conditions. Users report that the ball works as a spare ball when there is oil present, but can be used as a main ball on dry lanes thanks to the minimal hook development and the hard hit delivered by the Gas Mask core. Compared to the Black Widow 2.0, which is designed as a longer ball with a hybrid cover, the Viz-A-Ball offers an even straighter path with noticeably reduced backend reaction.
On the Lanes
The Black Widow Viz-A-Ball works excellently as a powerful spare ball or on extremely dry lanes. Bowlers appreciate the predictable path and the powerful pin action made possible by the Gas Mask core. Under the right conditions and with appropriate surface prep, the ball can definitely show performance characteristics, especially on dry sections of the lane. The ball shows an intense backend reaction, which on lane conditions that are too light can leave pins lying flat. If you throw at lower speed with fewer revs, the ball is an interesting option, since it still generates enough power even with reduced input. Two-handed players in particular report good results when other balls hook too much, as do recreational bowlers who were able to improve their scores considerably.