Storm IQ Tour Sapphire Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

Layout: 60 degrees x 4" x 40 degrees

RG: 2.54"

Differential: .034"

M/b: n/a

Surface: 1500 Grit Power Edge Polished

Core shape: Symmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: Powered by the iconic C³™ Centripetal Control Core, the !Q Tour Sapphire delivers the smooth, predictable benchmark motion bowlers have trusted for years. This time, however, the proven R2S™ Pearl Reactive coverstock and Power Edge™ finish provide added length through the front of the lane, creating a cleaner look without sacrificing the control that defines the series. When you need a benchmark reaction that gets farther down the lane before making its move, the !Q Tour Sapphire is ready. It offers the familiar feel that made the !Q Tour a favorite, now with the extra length needed to stay ahead as conditions begin to transition.

Storm's newest IQ series bowling ball has garnered the attention of dozens of buyers in the store already, and the overall design of the product will match up to a fairly wide range of styles on local league conditions. I drilled my IQ Tour Sapphire with a slightly stronger pin position than normal (4"), and used the same angles as my typical pin down balls that you'll find in previous reviews. I was looking for a little more track flare than usual, since the C3 core in the IQ series is so low in differential. I wanted to make sure the Sapphire had plenty of track flare to help it create some friction.

This particular ball for me was exceptionally long down the lane, and will be in play on many of the high friction league environments you can find in our area. The 1500 grit polished cover is a pearl, and it takes the ball very long through the front part of the lane before it sees any friction at all. This will really help out our slower speed customers who need more length in the ball reaction.

The IQ Tour Sapphire has the familiar shape off of the end of the pattern, with a smooth and continuous shape generated by the low rg, symmetric core shape. You'll never see this ball skid/snap when throwing it. Smooth, and at times almost gradual hook is what you should be expecting if you drill one of these Storm pieces. We would also recommend making sure that you're keeping it in a truly dry to medium/dry environment. The Sapphire can skid a lot when it's on top of the oil. If you drill one of these and find it it to be a touch weaker than expected, a quick skuff of the surface will liven it up.

Overall, the Storm IQ Tour Sapphire will be a great piece to add to the drier lane potion of the bag. We expect this one to sell extremely well based on the popularity of the IQ series. They're in stock now in 12-15# at Total Bowling Gear!