Roto Grip RST X-1 Bowling Ball

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Dating back to the mid-1950’s, there is a reason Roto Grip is often referred to as the “Original High-Performance Bowling Ball Specialists.” Our latest asymmetrical creation continues that tradition with the development of the RST Core which produces consistent core torque and energy transfer down lane where it is needed most. From there we formulated the most versatile MicroTrax Hybrid Coverstock to date which produces optimum responsiveness to both oil and friction. It’s ok, you can thank us later! RST – Roto Star Tour Core… Professional bowlers like to see continuous motion down lane with minimal deflection as the ball enters the pocket due to their rev rates usually being on the higher side. This logic was the basis of development by the R&D team as they looked to create a core that would maintain dynamics after drilling in order to maintain a higher level of core torque down lane. The larger mass at the base of the core does indeed create that. Especially since when drilled, the thumbhole will always end up near the bottom of the void area not to affect the bottom mass of the core all that much. Thus, making this core a “Tour Level” type core design. Behind the X-1 name… When it all began back in the early 1950’s, Roto Star (later known as Roto Grip) quickly became known as the “High Performance Bowling Ball Specialists.” Because of this industry leading mantra, and with the latest creation of the Roto Star Tour Core, it only made sense to go back in time to recapture the vibe and pay homage to those balls that set the standard for technology and development. That is how the RST X-1 was born!
ColorBlack / Dark Forest / Forest Pearl
CoverstockMicroTrax™ Hybrid Reactive
CoreRST™ Core = Roto Star Tour™ (Asymmetrical)
RG2.53
Differential0.053
Intermediate Diff0.016
Factory finish3000 grit Abralon
Weights12 thru 16lbs
Cleared USBC

48 Reviews

  • David

    Posted by David on Mar 26th 2021

    Roto Grip RST X-1 was the biggest surprise I've had in a Roto Grip ball. First I would like to say that I had the expectation that the RST would be a really strong asymmetrical ball. The very first RST that I drilled was 3 1/2x4x3 and it was a very strong early rolling ball that I have found to be great early in the set on heavy oil in the front of the lane. I have to make sure to keep a lot of surface on this layout. The 2nd RST that I drilled was 5x4x2. This payout gives me a ton of length and a completely different shape compared to the other layout. With this layout I have to have at least lane shine on the cover but I can get much deeper and let the ball go right down lane. The RST is possibly the most versatile asymmetrical ball Roto Grip has ever made. The cover takes polish and surface very well and you can lay out the ball for many different reactions. If you travel to tournaments this is a must have ball.

  • Nate Garcia (In reply to: Michael Slatky )

    Posted by Nate Garcia (In reply to: Michael Slatky ) on Mar 26th 2021

    Talk about a sleeper bowling ball packed with control and predictability. Roto Grip is introducing the RST-X1; a new asymmetrical piece in the roto grip line with a new core. This ball has a RG Value of 2.53 and a differential of .053 wrapped in the Micro Trax Hybrid coverstock. This ball fits perfectly between the UFO and Rubicon. The RST X-1 gives you a very controllable and predictable reaction. You can almost relate this ball to a asymmetrical IQ Tour but with a little more cover. This ball is best for medium to heavier oil conditions and it would be one of the first balls out of the bag to figure out if you either using that ball on the fresh or something that more aggressive or less aggressive. This is the ball we love to use out on tour on the fresh or a piece to control the break point. If you're looking for maximum control and you're more of a tournament bowler, this ball is going to strike a lot on patterns.

  • Michael Slatky

    Posted by Michael Slatky on Mar 25th 2021

    Roto Star Tour X-1 Coverstock: MicroTrax Reactive Hybrid Finish: 3000 Grit Abralon Core: RST (Roto Star Tour) RG: 2.53 Differential: 0.053 Int Diff: 0.016 Layout: 65 x 5 x 70 Tester: PAP 5 1/2 R, 1 1/2 D Review: The RST X-1 provides a good amount of traction in the fronts with the OOB hybrid finish. Matched up with a new Core Design the RST X-1 has been very popular during its introduction period. You will see this ball excel on heavy to heavy/medium patterns. I recommend the RST X-1 for longer patterns and for situations where the player is bowling on harder surfaces. For league play on the fresh, the OOB 3000 Abralon finish will do the trick. However, if you see a look that appears early, surface up to 4K on a spinner. Personally, I like the OOB look of this offering by Roto Grip. I will use the RST X-1 as nice complement to the 900 Global Reality for various patterns. Compared to a previous offering by 900 Global, the Extreme Solid, the RST X-1 has a little bit more downlane motion, which provides more miss room outside and good potential for recovery. Again, I recommend this one for the player looking for an edge on the fresh. Grab an RST X-1 today! Michael Slatky 900 Global Staff Member York, PA

  • jordan richard

    Posted by jordan richard on Mar 18th 2021

    I am a player that matches well with his rev rate (380) and speed (17mph) Sport average : 190 House shot : 220 Layout : 55 x 5 x 35 Bowlers who don't understand who those numbers please don't get discouraged. Please ask your local pro shop for some help. The Roto Grip RST really surprised me, because I typically have trouble throwing a High Performance ball on all 3 games in league or tournaments in that face. I can legit play everywhere on the lane with this ball with the correct surface. Heavy oil - bump a little right and can play little straighter Ligher oil - bump a little left and can play the big hook - sorta speak. My experience with bowling balls, I don't really see a ball that works out for the high rev player, high speed player or for every bowler in that speak. This ball will match almost everyone ! Give this ball a shot

  • jordan richard

    Posted by jordan richard on Mar 18th 2021

    I am a player that matches well with his rev rate (380) and speed (17mph) Sport average : 190 House shot : 220 Layout : 55 x 5 x 35 Bowlers who don't understand who those numbers please don't get discouraged. Please ask your local pro shop for some help. The Roto Grip RST really surprised me, because I typically have trouble throwing a High Performance ball on all 3 games in league or tournaments in that face. I can legit play everywhere on the lane with this ball with the correct surface. Heavy oil - bump a little right and can play little straighter Ligher oil - bump a little left and can play the big hook - sorta speak. My experience with bowling balls, I don't really see a ball that works out for the high rev player, high speed player or for every bowler in that speak. This ball will match almost everyone ! Give this ball a shot

  • William Tefft

    Posted by William Tefft on Mar 18th 2021

    Ball Specs: Roto Grip RST X-1 Cover: 3000 MicroTrax™ Hybrid Reactive Weight Block: RST™ Core (Asymmetrical) Color: Black/Dark Forest/Forest Pearl The first thing that caught my eye about this ball was the name. It really stands out as a unique name when it comes to a bowling ball name. Now on to the performance of the bowling ball. This has to be one of the best balls I've thrown recently. It does a great job of getting down the lane while maintaining energy for when it hits the pins. I've done a little surface experimenting with this ball and have managed to still keep the same result. I would consider this a step down from some of the other high end asymmetric bowling balls that Storm/Roto Grip/ 900 Global offer, but I still found a good place in my bag for this ball. Overall I see this ball great for both the house bowler and the tournament bowler a like. It's versatility allows for a wide range of bowlers to enjoy this bowling ball and take their game to the next level. Will Tefft Roto Grip Staff Member will@parklane.net www.rotogrip.com #SquadRG

  • Chase Roloson

    Posted by Chase Roloson on Mar 17th 2021

    The Roto Grip RST X-1 is a ball that fills a Niche Spot in the current lineup. This Balls Falls Nicely Below say a Reality or Proton, but Above the Parallax Effect and Regular Parallax. This Ball reminds me of a iQ Tour but quite a bit Stronger. Silky Smooth and controllable. This is my control ball for heavier oil patterns and comes into play regularly when conditions are tough. If you are looking for a silky smooth and controllable ball motion for heavier oil patterns look no further! Chase Roloson Roto Grip Proshop Staff

  • Haley Lundy

    Posted by Haley Lundy on Mar 15th 2021

    Roto Grip RST1 is definitely a ball that goes everywhere with me! At first glance I thought because of the big core I would see this ball roll out a lot for me but actually the total opposite... I like my UFO but we have a love hate relationship as it would tend to start rolling out for me in some situations. With the RST this thing does not stop when it hits the pins. Such great entry angles with this ball allowing me to move left without getting the usual roll out from the big cores. The RST is also very controllable I always know what it's going to do. Never over hooks just a nice round shape. Kinda like a stronger IQ for me to be honest. This one is going to be a hit that's for sure. !!

  • Roto Grip RST X-1 review by Brian Watson

    Posted by Roto Grip RST X-1 review by Brian Watson on Mar 15th 2021

    The Roto Grip RST X-1 is the recent addition to the HP4 line. The X-1 is an asymmetrical ball but it not as strong as say a Storm Proton Phyisx or RG UFO. I drilled mine 5 x 4.5 x 2.5 which is a pin above middle finger for me. I can say the ball roll is unique especially how the X-1 goes through the pins. Its just different but in a good way. It kind of just keeps pins low and sucks them off the deck. Catch some of Stu Williams YouTube videos on the X-1, its his favorite ball right now. The hybird Microtrax cover is very versatile and takes polish and abralon changes real well. I have the X-1 above the Rubicon and below a Proton. The X-1 has been a big hit at our Storm Matchmaker events. Brian Watson Storm Pro Shop Staff PAP - 4 up 1 1/8 RPM - 400 MPH - 16-17 Tilt - 17 Modify message

  • Mike LeViner

    Posted by Mike LeViner on Mar 12th 2021

    Layout: 50 x 4 7/8" x 35 The RST X-1 is a unique medium-heavy oil beast that is cleaner through the fronts than your normal high end ball, and due to this, it has a quicker backend reaction as well. I was not sure exactly what to expect when I drilled it, but what I got was a ball that is a small step down from balls like the Proton Physix, but could still be used on heavier oil. The quickness that it shows down lane lends to it being very useful on all medium oil conditions, and therefore also contributes to it's versatility. It fits absolute perfectly between the Proton Physix or Reality, and balls like the Rubicon UC2 or the Idol Synergy.

  • Jason Hollingsworth

    Posted by Jason Hollingsworth on Mar 8th 2021

    RST X-1. This is a wonderful benchmark type ball. Has a very even reaction and performs well in the oil as well as in the dry areas of the lane. This ball does a great job of blending out an oil pattern. Just strong enough for the heavier oil, and just clean enough to not overreact from the dry boards. This will be a great ball on all medium conditions. Very versatile ball. Will be a good step down from a high end ball, such as a Proton Physix. I see this as a ball used in the middle of tournament blocks, bridging the gap between the high-end hook monsters and your Hyroads. Also, a great ball for typical house shot conditions. Jason Hollingsworth #StormNation

  • Roto Grip RST X-1 Ball Review by PJ Haggerty

    Posted by Roto Grip RST X-1 Ball Review by PJ Haggerty on Mar 5th 2021

    The Roto Grip RST X-1 is the newest addition to the HP4 line and it's special. With an RG of 2.53 and a differential of .053, that tells me this ball will be a bit cleaner than the UFO and Proton, but would be a nice compliment to those as well. I've had success on multiple surfaces and patterns with the RST and I think it fills a nice spot in my bag. Also, with the MicroTrax (hybrid) coverstock, this provides a bit more length and a quicker response time than a traditional asymmetrical ball. I've drilled two RST's so far and really like both. My favorite one is mapped out as 5 ¼ x 4 x 50. I've had the most success when the bigger asymmetrical balls slow down too much and I need a cleaner ball with a relatively quick response time. Also, my angles have been further open when I've struck the most with the RST. I've had a tougher time playing straight due to it being almost too clean. Overall, I love the motion the RST provides and it compliments so much of the lineup so well. If you need a ball to use when your UFO or Proton Physix start to bog down, the RST X-1 could be a great ball to drill!

  • Anthony Wiegand

    Posted by Anthony Wiegand on Mar 2nd 2021

    The new RST-X1 is the newest HP4 ball introduced to the roto grip line. I'd put this ball in between the ufo and the rubicon. To me this ball for being a big asymmetric hybrid gets through the fronts reads the mids and had a lot of pop off the spot. It kind of reminds me of an Original Physix from storm. If you're looking for a dull asymmetrical bowling ball that is great left to right this is the ball for you! Go to your local pro shop and get one of these you won't be sorry!

  • Chris Freeland

    Posted by Chris Freeland on Feb 21st 2021

    Roto Grip RST X-1 Cover: MicroTrax Hybrid Reactive Core: RST (Roto Star Tour) Core Layout: 70 x 5 1/4 x 30 Roto Grip has made some great balls of late. The Rubicon and Rubicon UC2 are two of my favorites. Both the Rubicon and UC2 are really responsive downlane especially for asymmetrical balls. With the RST X-1, I wasn't sure exactly where it would fit in but I was hopeful that if I put the same layout on it as I have on my Rubicon and UC2, I would get a nice compliment. Bingo. For me, the RST X-1 has a lot more control than either Rubicon. The cover seems to bleed a bit of the energy going down the lane and I get a very controlled "tour" type breakpoint. I wouldn't consider the RST X-1 angular in any way for me. In fact, I kind of see a trick layout type reaction with a standard pin up drill, which makes its window of use much longer. I have thrown the RST X-1 on sport patterns and house and it has a place in both worlds. Video Review: https://youtu.be/EgfpTDkS2LI Chris Freeland Storm Amateur Staff Bowler Info: PAP 5 over, 3/4 up, Speed 16-17, Rev Rate 400

  • Bradley Paynter

    Posted by Bradley Paynter on Feb 8th 2021

    The RST X-1 is a ball that really suits my game. Being a medium rev, medium speed player, I often struggle finding balls that have enough length and backend to complete with higher rev players. However, with the RST X-1, I find it is the perfect combination of length & backend. I've used this on fresh house shots, and all types of sports patterns. This ball is the epitome of versatile. This ball gets my highest of recommendations.

  • RST X-1 review by Lonnie Pemberton

    Posted by RST X-1 review by Lonnie Pemberton on Feb 3rd 2021

    Cover: MicroTrax (Micro Nanoparticle Traction) Hybrid Core: Roto Star Tour Core (RST™ Core) Finish: 3000 RG: 2.53 Differential: 0.053 ME: Right-Handed Tweener Speed: 12-13 mph Rev Rate: 315 PAP: 4 7/8 Right 3/8 Up Ball Layout: Pin over bridge/ring 55 X 5 1/4 X 35 The New RST X-1 is a throw back motion ball updated for todays conditions. Compared to other HP4 releases it is cleaner than the solid versions you've seen released in recent years. Compared to the Pearl HP 4 line balls it is much smoother. Compared to the other hybrid releases, it is both. It's a ball that accentuates the best characteristics of strong balls with Hybrid covers. It's mid-lane read is great, down-lane motions super predictable, and is incredibly continuous without a drastic change of direction. My favorite thing about the RST-X1 is how many different conditions it is useful on. Even the extreme ends of the spectrum are in play. The RST X-1 is smooth enough that with hand positions you can control downlane reaction on both short and long oil. In league it has been exceptional for me on conditions that are a little more blended. The adaptability of this ball to every condition makes it a good match up for most everyone.

  • Rodney Gilmore

    Posted by Rodney Gilmore on Feb 2nd 2021

    Ball Review RST-X1 Cover: New MicroTrax Hybrid Cover Stock 3000 unpolished RG: 2.53 Dif:0.053 PSA: 0.016 What can I say but WOW! Asymmetrical balls and I have a hard time matching up, but I can stay this one is a winner for me. I drilled this OOB 45 x 3 ½ x 40. I left the cover OOB. The RST is smooth through the front for me and reads the mid lane very well and is continuous with a strong backend. I have a hard time getting Asymmetrical to get through the pins without burning up and getting the right shape. I have experimented with different layouts on several balls. This one is dead on. I shot 723 with my first series right out of the box. I found that I can move and trust the ball will turn the corner which is very difficulty for me since I am a speed dominant lower rev player. I can see myself using this right out to the bag on the fresh. This ball has a lot of versatility another home run for Roto Grip!!

  • StormMan300

    Posted by StormMan300 on Jan 19th 2021

    The Roto Grip RST X-1 is very strong HP4 ball. I drilled it with a favorite layout of mine 5.5x4x2 It reads the lane very well and just continues on the backend. No quit in this ball. You better have oil if you keep the 3000 grit factory finish. I personally shined mine for the house shot and it is my go to ball from the start. This ball is so good, it stores so much energy and drives through the pin, strong controllable finish on the backend Hitting Power is as great as every Roto Grip Ball I've thrown. I can play pretty much any line left of 3rd arrow and the ball will recover from anywhere. My PAP is 5-1/8 and 1/8 up. Usually around 15-16mph, I'd probably be classified between a tweener and a cranker. See my ball review video on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IV7JQj0VdYo

  • Chicago972

    Posted by Chicago972 on Jan 13th 2021

    The Roto Grip RST X-1 has a low RG value of 2.53 a high differential of 0.053 and a low intermediate differential of 0.016. Roto Grip came out with a new combination of the RST or Roto Star Tour Core and MicroTrax Hybrid Cover. The core cover combination will help produce an optimum balance of traction through the midlane while providing responsiveness to the friction and consistent core torque and energy transfer downlane. A little tidbit about the core, when you drill the thumb, you will always end up in that void space on either side of the core which in turn helps the ball maintain its dynamics after drilling which in turn helps maintain a high level of core torque downlane. I have the RST X-1 drilled pin up with the layout of 40 x 3 5/8 by 25 to give me a smooth reaction through the midlane and continuation off the breakpoint. I did a ball comparison with the Storm Parallax up first, as you can see the Parallax leaves the flat ten showing the strength of the RST X-1 compared to the Parallax which is also a Hybrid cover. Second comparison is to the Roto Grip Rubicon which is drilled pin down, the Rubicon has more of a bench mark reaction very smooth through the midlane and continuation off the spot but again leaves the flat 10. Third comparison is the Storm Proton Physix, the Proton Physix here I was able to create more angle to the pocket downlane and open up the lane more than the RST X-1. The RST X-1 will sit in my bag in between the Storm Proton Physix and Rubicon.

  • Kyle.Johnson88

    Posted by Kyle.Johnson88 on Jan 6th 2021

    Ball Specs: Roto Grip RST X-1 Cover: 3000 MicroTrax™ Hybrid Reactive Weight Block: RST™ Core (Asymmetrical) Color: Black/Dark Forest/Forest Pearl Review: Do not let the name confuse or distract you. We have had a few customers think the name is "too technical" and therefore overlook this piece. Because of this, and the awesome color, we have nicknamed this ball the dark horse. You will find similar characteristics in the RST X-1 to the Physix. This ball has great continuous motion down lane and maintains tons of energy to the pins. One thing that really stands out with this ball is the response to cover changes! We have had a lot of customers fine tune their covers. Everything from taking it to 1000, to putting some shine on the cover... all seem to work great which proves the versatility and hold this ball has for many conditions. Compared to a new asymmetrical release with no out of box changes you could expect this ball to be a step down from the Proton Physix with much more length down the lane. Overall, this ball will be great for house conditions and spectacular for tournament players who need a versatile cover in their bag for changes during sets. Kyle & Joel Johnson Roto Grip Pro Shop Staff Members joel@parklanes.net kyle@parklanes.net www.rotogrip.com #SquadRG

  • Moneymarriott300

    Posted by Moneymarriott300 on Jan 4th 2021

    The RST X-1 features the new Roto Star Core wrapped in MicroTrax Hybrid. For me, I am able to use this ball on a variety of patterns. I am able to use this in league and not have to worry about what it will do. It is a great benchmark shape for an asymmetrical ball. I can see myself bringing this ball everywhere I go whether that be tournaments or league. I also see this ball as a stronger and more versatile PhysiX. If you liked that ball you will not be disappointed with the RST X-1!!

  • bigmikecraig

    Posted by bigmikecraig on Dec 30th 2020

    Layout 45 x 5 x 40. I left this one box finish which is 3000 abr and have been touching this up with the 3000 pad. My intent was to drill this and see what it looked like before adding a 2nd or 3rd one to the bag. So far it has been hard to describe where it fits and not in a bad way. It is not a PROTON PHYSIX, but is has more motion than my RUBICON. It is very readable and predictable and I have been using it on mostly medium/long-long patterns in the 40-44 foot range. If I am on the slicker side of the spectrum, I touch it with the 3000 pad and close my angles down. It also works for me when I need to open up my angles slightly more. If I have to really open them up, then I work in my NUCLEAR CELL and ball down from that to a AXIOM PEARL. The RST X-1 looks like a great shape that anyone who isn't afraid to drill a 2nd or 3rd companion ball would want to do it with this release. The cover looks like it might be more on the solid side vs pearl and that may be what is dictating the motion which is a strong arc type reaction.

  • Tony Marino

    Posted by Tony Marino on Dec 30th 2020

    RST X1 The RST X1 features the MicroTrax™ Hybrid cover along with the all new RST™ core (RG=2.53, Diff=.053 int diff=.016). I drilled my X1 5x4x3 because I wanted to be able to use it when the front part of the lanes were hooking a bit but they weren't quite ready for a skid snap shape yet. For me the X1 fits this spot perfectly! When balls like the UFO or Proton Physix ready too quickly, the X1 rolls great. What I really love about the X1 is the float through the front without sacrificing the quick revving asymmetrical shape that I love. If you are looking for a ball for medium to heavy oil but don't want something that hooks in our backswing, the RST X1 is it!

  • JoeZibrin

    Posted by JoeZibrin on Dec 29th 2020

    PAP 3 ¾ over 1" up ball speed 17 rev rate 475 Drilling-45x5 1/2x35 Immediately after throwing I knew this ball and I were going to be friends, right off my hand I see complete control and predictability. We don't see a lot of big cores that bring both strength and predictability, this one takes the cake for me. I can play left in the oil or move right and keep it in front of me around the track. I never feel like I'm lost with this one in my hands. Will for sure be going with me to all tournaments, 100% my arsenal building piece.

  • stormstarSLZ

    Posted by stormstarSLZ on Dec 29th 2020

    PAP 4 ½ over and 1 up ball speed 15 rev rate 275 Drilling-75x5 ½x25 So at first I didn't think I was going to drill this one, with all the asymmetrical releases and friction I bowl on, I just kinda overlooked it. Then, after drilling a couple for my customers I was intrigued and decided to go with a recommendation from my husband. I see a unique motion we haven't seen much lately, the RST-X1 is strong but not like other balls. Usually when a strong ball comes out we see a lot of hook up front which on high friction surfaces can be just to much and calls for a weaker ball to see the lanes the right way. But, with this gem, you don't have to worry about this, if you have a slower ball speed and have trouble using stronger stuff. Go out and get the RST-x1 you will not be disappointed!!