- Magnitude 055

First Impressions
The Brunswick Magnitude 055, released in October 2017, positions itself as the powerful counterpart to the previously released Magnitude 035. Visually, the ball comes in a combative combination of black, orange and red, underscoring its aggressive character. Inside works the namesake Magnitude 055 High Diff Core. This symmetrical core is specified with an extremely low RG of 2.499 and a very high differential of 0.055 (at 15 lbs). Those numbers reveal the goal right away: maximum flare potential and an early revving up. To transfer that dynamic to the lane, Brunswick uses the Relativity Traction Solid coverstock. The rough out-of-the-box finish of 500 and 1500 Siaair Micro Pad signals unmistakably that this ball was built for traction in oil. It is designed to read the heads aggressively rather than skid over the oil, which makes it a classic "snow tire" for heavy conditions.
Comparison
Compared directly to the Brunswick Magnitude 035 (Pearl), which was designed more for length and backend reaction, the 055 behaves completely differently. Where the 035 glides through the heads and snaps at the breakpoint, the 055 digs into the surface immediately and starts its roll phase much earlier. It is noticeably stronger in overall hook, and that strength is generated primarily in the front and middle part of the lane. Set against the asymmetrical heavyweight Brunswick Kingpin, the Magnitude 055 offers a smoother, rounder motion. The Kingpin reacts more sharply to transition and provides more torque at the breakpoint, while the symmetrical Magnitude 055 runs more predictably and more continuously through the pins. Against a market standard for symmetrical solids like the Storm Phaze II, the Magnitude 055 shows a similar philosophy of early control, but the dull 1500 finish often makes it feel a tick earlier and more aggressive in picking up rotation over the first few feet of the lane.
On the Lanes
The Magnitude 055 is the definitive choice for heavy oil conditions and long oil patterns where traction is the top priority. It is the ideal first ball out of the bag on fresh oil, to read the lane and smooth out the edges. Its dull surface eliminates overreaction on wet/dry lanes by making the transition to friction extremely smooth. It works excellently if you throw the ball fast and often struggle to get the ball rolling in time, as well as for players who have to deal with a "flood" of oil. As soon as the heads dry up and the transition sets in, though, the ball will start losing energy too early and hit flat in the pocket; that is the signal to switch to a polished ball like the Magnitude 035. The 055 offers maximum control and a heavy, rolling hit that forces carry through sheer mass and rotation.