First Impressions
The Brunswick Quantum Classic Black was released in July 2017 as part of the revived Quantum series and is aimed at purists looking for maximum hitting power. Visually, the ball comes in a deep, classic black that leaves no doubt about how serious it is. Its technical distinguishing feature is the construction: unlike conventional three-piece balls, this ball consists of only two pieces – the core and an extremely thick shell. No filler material (outer core) is used, which makes the coverstock roughly 3.5 times thicker than usual. Inside works the symmetrical Quantum Mushroom High RG Core. At 15 pounds this core delivers a very high RG of 2.568 and a high differential of 0.052. It is wrapped in the Relativity Hook Solid Reactive coverstock, finished at the factory with a coarse 500 and 1000 Siaair Micro Pad surface. This combination of a core that favors length (high RG) and a surface that seeks traction (matte solid) is physically especially interesting.
Comparison
In comparison, the Quantum Classic Black differs clearly from its sister model released at the same time, the Quantum Forest Green Solid. While the Forest Green gets into a roll very early with its low 2.46 RG and dominates the midlane, the high RG of the Classic Black lets it get through the front part of the lane and the heads much more easily before it starts a strong but controlled move to the pocket. Compared to the Storm Phaze II, another popular solid ball, the Quantum Classic Black offers more length due to the higher RG and stores more energy for impact, while the Phaze II is rounder and earlier. Compared to the Brunswick True Motion (urethane), the Quantum Classic Black offers similar controllability on difficult patterns, but produces considerably better carry thanks to the reactive material and the high coefficient of restitution of the thick shell, and mixes the pins more aggressively.
On the Lanes
The ideal range of use for the Brunswick Quantum Classic Black is medium to heavy oil patterns where control and pin action are equally in demand. The unique two-piece construction provides extremely efficient energy transfer to the pins, which often causes them to fly flatter and reduces the likelihood of splits. Thanks to the high RG, the ball is excellent if you have trouble getting matte solid balls through the heads without them "burning up." It naturally delays the hook point without giving up the traction of a solid cover. That makes it an excellent choice on sport patterns where the breakpoint has to be defined but not overly harsh. In transition, when the oil in the heads thins out, the Quantum Classic Black holds its line better than balls with lower RG, which then often start too early. It is a workhorse for bowlers who value durability and consistent carry.