- Edge Dark Purple Solid

First Impressions
Released in April 2017, the Brunswick Edge Dark Purple Solid positions itself as a strong benchmark ball in the mid price segment. Inside works the specially developed symmetrical Edge Low RG core. At 15 pounds, this core delivers a very low RG of 2.487 and a healthy 0.050 differential. That combination is remarkably aggressive for this price class (Advanced Performance), since it pairs an early revving core with high flare potential. Wrapped around this technology is the Relativity Solid Reactive coverstock. This chemical blend is designed to bond strongly with the oil. From the factory the ball comes with a 500/2000 Siaair Micro Pad finish. This dull, rough texture in deep dark purple signals immediately that the ball was not built for shine and skid, but for traction and control through the midlane.
Comparison Compared directly to the Brunswick Edge Blue Pearl released at the same time, the Dark Purple Solid serves as the stable foundation of the line. Where the Edge Pearl is polished and only responds to friction late, the Edge Solid reads the lane considerably earlier. It gives up the length and the angular backend kick of the pearl model in favor of a smooth, arcing motion that smooths out the oil pattern. Bring in a competitor like the Ebonite Game Breaker 2, considered a reference point for symmetrical solids, and the Brunswick Edge Solid often shows a touch more motion downlane thanks to its slightly higher differential (0.050 vs. 0.048), while retaining the same legendary controllability. Compared to the high performance Brunswick Mastermind Strategy, the Edge Solid offers somewhat less overall hook on extreme oil, but is often more versatile on typical house shots because it doesn't burn up energy as quickly.
On the Lanes The Brunswick Edge Dark Purple Solid is the classic benchmark ball for medium to heavier oil conditions. It's the ideal choice as the first ball out of the bag to read the characteristics of the lane. Thanks to the 2000 Siaair surface it doesn't "float" over fresh oil, but digs reliably through the heads without hooking uncontrollably early. Its strength is predictability: it shows you exactly where the oil ends and the friction begins. If you throw the ball fast, it's an excellent tool, since the low RG helps get the ball into a roll. If you're rev-dominant, you'll appreciate the round motion, which keeps the ball from jumping too hard through the heads on a bad shot. Once the lane goes through transition and the heads dry up, though, the ball will lose energy too early; at that point a move to the Edge Pearl or a Melee Jab is advisable to secure carry in the pocket.