- Rule GP2

First Impressions
The Track Rule GP2, released in February 2005, represents a technological step forward in the particle ball category. Inside works the asymmetric Morpheus 1.0 core, fitted with a special Rev-Lever attachment and an additional flip block. At 15 pounds, this complex core construction shows a comparatively high RG of 2.570. The high moment of inertia should ensure that the ball stores valuable rotational energy into the final third of the lane despite heavy friction. The core is wrapped in the innovative GP2 Particle coverstock, based on the proven Goo Reactive material. Two different types of particles were precisely injected into this shell to guarantee maximum traction in the heads and the midlane. Out of the box, the ball ships with a completely matte finish. Through the combination of the high-RG core and the extremely tacky cover, the Track Rule GP2 is designed to cut through large amounts of oil without trouble and still generate a continuous, surprisingly angular move toward the pocket.
Comparison Compared to established benchmark balls, the Track Rule GP2 positions itself as an extremely aggressive option for very oily conditions. Placed directly against the Storm Phaze II, which is considered the absolute reference for controllable, symmetrical solid balls, entirely different core philosophies emerge. The Storm Phaze II has a considerably lower RG, which produces a noticeably earlier and rounder roll phase. The Track Rule GP2, on the other hand, deliberately uses its high moment of inertia to create a bit more length despite the matte particle shell, before the asymmetric dynamics of the flip block take hold in a big way. Where the Storm Phaze II always reads the lane very smoothly and predictably, the Track Rule GP2 reacts far more sharply and aggressively to the friction it finds at the breakpoint. Compared to classic particle balls from the same decade, the Rule GP2 stands out mainly in that it is less prone to burning up powerlessly at the end of the oil pattern, instead converting the stored energy more efficiently into a strong hook.
On the Lanes The Track Rule GP2 was conceptually developed primarily for heavy to very heavy oil conditions. If you throw the ball fast or have a rather low rev rate, you'll benefit immensely from the tacky particle cover, since the ball builds traction reliably even in deep puddles of oil without sliding. On fresh, long patterns it should give you the confidence to play deep, open lines across the boards. The asymmetric design makes sure the ball makes the turn at the breakpoint, which leads to powerful carry. As soon as the lanes dry up noticeably and the transition sets in, however, the heavily gripping surface reveals its physical limits. On lighter patterns or heavily played lanes, the ball tends to lose too much energy in the heads through premature friction. This inevitably leads to a flat and ineffective hit into the pins. In such situations, adjustments are absolutely necessary. You should then either move drastically inside to use the remaining oil in the middle of the lane, or switch to a ball with a smoother surface to preserve the length needed to get down to the pins.