Roto Grip Perfect Gem Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

Layout: 60 degrees x 5 1/2" x 40 degrees

RG: 2.52"

Differential: .056"

M/b: .016"

Surface: 2000 grit sanded

Core shape: Asymmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: The legend has evolved. We took the undisputed heavy-hitter of the GEM™ series and pushed it through our advanced A.I. Core Technology lab to create a ball that doesn’t just hook—it strikes with surgical intent. By strategically refining the core density, we’ve unlocked a new motion profile that retains the raw strength of the original while offering a cleaner look through the front of the lane and a more aggressive finish at the pins.

I'm only bowling league at Royal Crest Lanes in Lawrence this year, and while they have been slicker in the last 2-3 weeks, I knew when I unboxed the Perfect Gem that I'd have to change it up. This Roto Grip cover is so strong, and combined with a 2000 grit sanded finish, there was simply no way I could ever throw it in my current league environment. So I started by taking this ball to 4000 grit, and adding some Storm Reacta Shine to help the Perfect Gem extend the breakpoint further down the lane. I also chose to use my regular pin up drilling on this strong asymmetric core, hoping that would also get the ball through the front of the lane a little easier.

As predicted, even with the changes I made, the Perfect Gem is an incredibly strong and early rolling ball. This ball will be at home on heavier oil lane conditions. The center I bowl at is not using the new Kegel Glide oil that many of our customers have seen more skid on, but I think this ball would be at home in some of those centers using that new oil where their other balls are struggling for friction. Perfect Gem is going to be earlier rolling than anything in your Storm/Roto-Grip bag right now, including the Hyperdrive or Alpha Crux. It's simply an incredibly strong core paired with an incredibly strong cover.

If you're game is high-speed and you need help generating hook, we'll definitely be pointing you this direction at the store. Perfect Gem is also a fairly smooth transitioning ball, so as long as you can get it through the front of the lane, you should find it to be predictable and a bit softer off of the breakpoint than some other balls in the market right now. We've had success with this piece for some of our extremely low revolution players as well. If you need help creating friction, this is your product. it's a true "first ball out of the bag" type of product on fresh/heavy oil conditions.

Roto Grip Perfect Gem is in stock now at Total Bowling Gear in 12-15#!