Roto Grip Wicked Gremlin Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

Layout: 60 degrees x 4" x 40 degrees

RG: 2.54"

Differential: .058"

M/b: .008"

Surface: 2000 Grit Sanded

Core shape: Asymmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: The Wicked Gremlin features the exact same core that made the original a staple in bags everywhere. You already know the motion; you already trust the backend. Why change a legend? We kept the core's predictable, high-torque shape to ensure that when this ball makes its move, it's a move you're ready for. The Wicked Gremlin introduces the all-new G-R1™ (Grip-Response) coverstock — a nano-free formula engineered for a uniquely "tacky" adhesion that reads the mid-lane with incredible stability. Designed specifically for Medium/Heavy oil, it bites through the slick stuff to deliver strong, continuous motion without burning up too early or overreacting on the backend.

I was starting over with a completely new bag as the fall season started, and decided that I'd give the Wicked Gremlin a try for the heavier oil end of the arsenal. The Wicked comes with a pretty dusty 2000 grit finish that definitely loves lane oil. I don't often drill asymmetric balls with lower/aggressive pin positions, but I just wanted to try something different as the new season started. The layout I chose with the 4" pin created a massive flaring bowling ball that shows over 6" of track flare. Combined with the lower pin position, this ball demands that there be a fairly heavy amount of oil on the lane for me to throw it. I thought that I might see that at Royal Crest this year when I went to the league practice night, but they've been a little drier since then, and the Wicked simply isn't in play on medium to drier patterns.

With regard to the surface on the ball, I haven't tried anything different yet, as I have some polished and smoother sanded balls that roll pretty good right now (Equinox Hybrid, Hyped Up, etc.). But this ball could certainly be more in regular play for me if I took the surface up and added some polish.

The ball definitely has a unique look on the shelf. You won't find many yellow/gold colored balls on the wall when you come in to TBG. But its' actually pretty easy to read on the lane. I wondered if the color might result in one of those ugly swirling balls that the eye has trouble picking up on the lane, but that didn't end up being the case. Instead, it just makes it easier to find my ball on the return!

In the end, Wicked Gremlin is going to be in play for heavier oil league patterns, and fresh tournament shots with higher volumes of oil. Had this ball been available when I bowled Greater Ozarks in June, this ball would have seen a lot of time at Sunshine Lanes. If you're looking for just a little more in the Storm/Roto Grip/900 Global line, Wicked Gremlin is going to be a piece to look at. It should end up a little stronger than balls like Phaze 2, Rock Star, Vengeance, etc. Comparatively, at the top end of the bag I do prefer the Equinox Solid just slightly, as it seems to have just a touch more continuation down lane. But Roto Grip users will really like the result if they give the Wicked Gremlin a try.

Wicked Gremlin is available now at TBG, and in stock in 12-15# weights!