- Torpedo Direct Hit

First Impressions
The Radical Torpedo Direct Hit presents itself as a unique new release in the bowling world. In its striking sky blue, it pairs the familiar asymmetric Torpedo core with a newly formulated Low Friction Cover (LFC). This combination follows the concept of the successful "Spy" ball, but with reactive material for more control on dry lanes. The specs are convincing: the asymmetric Torpedo core has an RG of 2.482 (15 lb), a differential of 0.054 and an intermediate differential of 0.017. The Low Friction Reactive coverstock with a pearl surface receives a factory treatment of 500, 1000, 2000 Siaair, Factory Compound and Factory Polish. With a hardness reading of 76, this ball sits above the average of commercially available bowling balls and absorbs oil considerably more slowly. The Torpedo Direct Hit also uses Brunswick's DynamiCore technology – an innovative outer core material that offers less compression at impact, which increases hitting power and creates an unmistakable difference in sound and pinfall.

Comparison
Side by side, the Torpedo Direct Hit positions itself as a clearly weaker alternative to the original Torpedo, while keeping its core dynamics. Compared to the Storm IQ Tour AI, it shows less lane-reading ability, which comes primarily down to the difference in coverstock. Where the IQ Tour AI wants to read the lane and drive through the pins in a controlled way, the Direct Hit tends to deflect, especially when it hits the right side of the headpin. In tests against the Brunswick Melee Jab Carbon and the Hammer Axe, the differences become even clearer. The Melee Jab Carbon requires a position noticeably further left, since it wants to read the lane earlier. The Hammer Axe, much like the Direct Hit, needs friction in the early part of the lane, but offers more confidence on the strike shot. Compared to the Storm Equinox with nearly identical core numbers, the difference in coverstock stands out particularly clearly – the Equinox demands a position much further left because of its higher friction characteristics.

On the Lanes
The Torpedo Direct Hit works excellently on extremely dry lanes, where other balls would react too early and too strongly. It is the ideal choice if you play house centers with lightly or rarely oiled lanes. Beginners in particular, and advanced two-handed players with slow ball speed but high rev rates, will find a reliable partner in this ball, one that makes friction manageable. For advanced players, the Direct Hit can serve as a strategic option in the arsenal, especially during the transition to very dry conditions. It offers enough hook for strikes without overreacting to friction. Interestingly, it can also fill in as a substitute spare ball when needed, which gives it additional versatility. One important note on maintenance: because the ball absorbs oil more slowly, wiping it down regularly between shots is recommended – similar to a urethane ball – in order to preserve the coverstock characteristics and ensure consistent reaction. In summary, the Torpedo Direct Hit closes an important gap in the Radical lineup and offers a dependable option for conditions where more aggressive balls would simply generate too much hook. Its combination of the strong Torpedo core and the Low Friction coverstock makes it a unique tool for specific playing situations.