Hammer Black Widow Tour V1 Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

Layout: 60 degrees x 5" x 40 degrees

RG: 2.51"

Differential: .034"

M/b: .016"

Surface: 3000 grit sanded

Core shape: Asymmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: The most iconic name in bowling has done something it’s never done before: introducing the Black Widow Tour V1, a revolutionary new version of the most dominant line in the game. For the first time in the Black Widow line, we’ve reengineered the iconic Gas Mask core by removing the flip block and reducing the differential by over 20 points to create an entirely new motion in the Widow lineup. This innovation delivers more controlled motion while still offering the unmistakable power and continuation that bowlers expect from a Widow. Paired with the best cover in the game, HK22 – Aggression Hybrid, and a smooth 3000 grit finish, the Tour V1 produces a ball motion that excels on virtually any condition, just like its predecessors.

Hammer's newest Black Widow reduces track flare by removing the pancake from the top of the Gas Mask core. The end result is a far smoother and more predictable motion in the newest spider. I wanted to make sure I saw a decent amount of track flare, so I used a slightly stronger 5" pin to positive axis point distance on the Tour V1, but kept the angles the same as usual. The standout attribute to this new Hammer launch is the predictability throughout the ball motion. Black Widow Tour V1 is what you're looking for in a controllable option. This tour edition will be exceptional on flatter/tougher lane patterns. But it still hooks enough to be in play on your everyday league shots. With a 5" pin distance, I saw near 3" of track flare out of the Widow Tour V1.

I left the surface on this one alone for now, as it actually matches up pretty well at Olathe Lanes East. They've been a bit drier this year than last, so smoother surfaces like the 3000 on the Widow Tour V1 are in play. I prefer this ball when I can play a little more direct than usual. It's not that it won't go around the lane, but I just feel like there are better options in the Hammer line to do that (Widow 2.0 Hybrid, Effect). Black Widow Tour V1 has been at its best when I can play tighter angles, regardless of where I'm playing on the lane.

I am curious what one of these might do with some polish on it. There may be an option to find a very mild reacting, drier lane option in the Widow Tour V1 if you apply some polish to the 3000-grit finish. I don't see much point in dulling it much further than 3000, as the core isn't going to be strong enough for heavier volume patterns. I'll probably work on some of these smoother finishes moving forward to see what happens.

Hammer's new Black Widow Tour V1 is in-stock in 12#-15# at Total Bowling Gear now!