Storm Ion Max Bowling Ball

About Me: Joel Donner SPI Pro Shop Staff Member Left Handed: High Rev High Speed Player Layout: 5 X 5 X 2 Pap: - 47/8 +1 Rev Rate: +-500 Speed 17-18mph Ball Video: https://youtu.be/6Sm6aQktH-8 The ION Max has quickly become my favorite solid bowling ball. Its controllability, versatility, and predictability are outstanding. I believe the ION Max will be a go-to option for heavy oil conditions, allowing bowlers to use it for extended periods without needing to reach for another ball. The hitting power of this ball is impressive. I haven't experienced this many messengers in a long time. With the advanced AI technology, it almost feels like using a "cheater" ball. We filmed the ION Max on a 39-foot flat pattern, the ION Max performed exceptionally well, making the lane conditions look as if we were bowling on a house shot. The ION Max is a ball that is going to stay in my bag for a very long time and I will be buying a few more. The ION Max is by far and away the best solid ball that I've ever thrown. If I were you I would run and not walk to your nearest pro shop and get yours today. Joel Donner SPI Pro Shop Staff Member Cedar Rapids, IA #StormNation #StrikingWorldwide #RGSquad #Iambowling

The Storm Ion Pro Max is a true powerhouse. With its NRG Solid coverstock and upgraded AI asymmetrical core, it offers incredible traction, a strong midlane read, and continuous backend motion in heavy oil conditions. The Ion Pro Max thrives on medium to heavy oil while remaining versatile and adaptable to surface adjustments. Perfect for all styles—high-speed, high-rev, or balanced players—this ball delivers exceptional pin action and consistent control. For those seeking maximum hook potential and versatility, the Ion Pro Max stands out as a top-tier choice and is a great addition to my bag!

I was not going to get this ball because I have a lot of hand so I thought this ball was going to be too strong for me and I thought I wouldn’t be able to use it a lot. I WAS WRONG! The first game I bowled with this was a 300! I did put 1000 surface on it before I used it also. The layout I have on this ball is 75x5/8x70. This is a little different than other layouts on my ball because of this ball more strong. This ball has helped me a lot when I need to get through game 1 when the lanes are fresh. I recommend this ball, especially to low-rev bowlers. It is a great first-game ball.

Orientation: Right Handed Rev Rate: 400 RPM Speed: 16-17 MPH PAP: 4 ½ over and 1 1/8 up Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO Pattern: High Volume THS VLS Layout: Layout 1: 4 5/8 x 4 x 2 ½ (Pin above bridge) Layout 2: 4 ¼ x 4 x 4 (pin below bridge) The Ion Max is simply the biggest hooking ball on the market. The Gem USED to be. The Ion Max takes over that spot! They modded the Ion Pro core and made the Max core STRONG. And they put the NRG Solid cover on it, which makes it strong but not too early and slow. NRG is not the strongest cover, but combined with this core it out hooks any ball I’ve thrown. I drilled a pin up and a pin down one and I like them both, the pin down one is the more usable one as it flares less. With the flip block on the bottom of the weight block I saw the Max make a more defined move downlane! Some of the single density weight blocks don’t change direction hard enough for me, and the Max solves that problem. If you want a strong solid with a little pop downlane, the Max is a no brainer!

Bowlers Info: RH tweener, PAP 4-5/8 x 3/4 up, 380 RPM, 13* of Axis tilt, 60* of Axis Rotation Ball Layout: 60 x 5-1/4 x 30 VLS: 5-1/4 x 4-1/2 x 2-1/4 Finish: 3000 The new Storm Ion Max builds upon the motion that Ion Pro created with a controlled asymmetric piece to cut thru the heaviest oil patterns. Drilled my Max the same as my Ion Pro with a 5-1/4 x 4-1/2 x 2-1/4 and took it up to 3000 to have the Ion Max conserve the energy a bit more for the backend. That’s exactly what it does! Used on our sport 47’ long sport pattern and averaged 226 as I was able to use on the fresh and move left during transition. This lower RG gets the ball seeing motion earlier but doesn’t sacrifice hitting power when it hits the pins. It has gotten better and better as more oil is getting into the cover. If you’re looking to replace an older, stronger asymmetric in your arsenal, the Ion Max will not disappoint! Chris Martinez Storm Amateur Staff www.stormbowling.com

Ball Specs: Storm Ion Max Coverstock: 2000 Grit NRG™ Solid Reactive Weight Block: Element™ Max A.I. Core (Asymmetrical) Color: Neon Pink/Indigo/White Review: It’s time to take your game to the MAX! All of our bowling balls are tested on the same fresh pattern and with out of box surface. This was the strongest ball from SPI we have ever thrown out of box. The first flare rings were insane to say the least. We drilled this ball with our normal layout: tweener, 350-375 revs, 16.5mph, layout of choice is 4x4x2 (pin is above bridge). If you like the ball to hook early and a lot overall this could be a game changer for you. We bowl mostly at a high friction center so this is a ball realistically that we can only use for a short period of time during league before we have to ball down or be forced way left with our feet but if bowl at a center with a longer pattern or less friction and are having an issue getting the ball to hook early or come off the pattern then look no further. The ball has great shelf appeal and looks pretty cool going down the lane. This is going to be special one, look out for a local matchmaker if you can to give this one a shot! Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson SPI Pro Shop Staff Members kyle@parklanes.net joel@parklanes.net dean@parklanes.net www.stormbowling.com #StormNation #GoGlobal #SquadRG

This ball is a unique and updated take on the quintessential big asym solid. This is the big, strong snow tire piece that you need on heavy oil or to blend out the cliff. As for what makes this ball unique: the NRG Solid cover is strong, and this is the first time we've seen this cover stateside since the Trend 2 (which was a hybrid). The A.I. core technology adds to the predictability that you want out of this type of ball. A.I. core technology also creates a longer continuation window, which makes this ball more continuous than other similar/previous big solid asyms. The result is a smooth, continuous, strong ball that keeps its axis longer, continues better, and hits harder. This has been my go-to ball to blend out the cliff, and it will be yours too.

HOOK IN A BOX! If your looking for a ball that doesn’t miss the midlane but is still very continuous off the spot in HEAVY volumes of oil. This is the ball for you! If you’re a high speed player, high rev player or even matched. This ball works for everyone! The ball is very versatile and takes well to surface changes.

Ion Max • Storm • Premier Series Coverstock • NRG Solid Reactive Finish •2000-grit Abralon Core • Element Max A.I. Core Weight • 15 lbs. RG • 2.47 Differential • .053 PSA • .014 Layout • 4 3/8 x 4 1/8 x 2 5/8 Tester PAP • 5” R, 5/8” D Tester Axis Tilt • 11° Tester Rev Rate • 300 Test Pattern • 42' THS (Typical House Shot) • Modified, Kegel Stone Street Storm has once again hit another striking success with the release of the Ion Max. Storm built the Ion Max from the successful benchmark design of the Ion Pro. However, Storm designed the Ion Max to be its own distinct pin-crushing weapon. Storm attached a weight block to the Element A.I. Core, producing the Element Max A.I. Core and the NRG Solid Reactive coverstock; the Ion Max is a high-flaring and hard-driving machine that delivers results. So, let's break it down to see what is behind the Ion Max's success! The Element Max A.I. core is different than the original Element A.I. Core in that Storm has added an extra weighted disk to the bottom of the Element core. And for straighter players like me, that added weighted block creates the ultimate flare or hooking potential we low-rev players lack in the modern game! I found the Element Max A.I. core is aggressive in the mid-lane as it fights to find its center. And when it stands up, I like how the Element Max A.I. core transfers that aggressive energy into a hard-driving rolling machine as it exits the pattern. Then, with the added A.I. Core technology, the Element Max A.I. core delivers a powerful striking blow through the pins. And as a straighter player, when I see an unrelenting continuation like the Element Max A.I. produces, I know my corner pins are about to fall! So, overall, I found the Element A.I. Core to be what every straighter player needs in their game. The NRG Solid Reactive coverstock for straighter players delivers predictable and adaptable motions you can trust while playing many different lane conditions. On a fresh THS, the NRG Solid reads crisply as the Ion Max migrates from the heads to the mid-lane, and in the mid-lane, it has a smooth, predictable traction that we straighter players like to see. And as the Ion Max comes off the pattern, I liked how the NRG Solid cuts a crisp line to the pocket but doesn't overreact to friction. And that smooth predictability to friction makes the NRG an excellent choice for getting through spotty and over-under conditions we see in transition and late-night conditions. And as a straighter player, if urethane is your nemesis - have no fear! The NRG Solid is an excellent choice to get through those pushed-around and scattered conditions we struggle with due to urethane being on the lanes. So, for straighter players like me, the NRG Solid reactive coverstock was a superb choice that Storm put on the Ion Max. In closing, Storm has produced a strong-rolling, hard-driving machine with the Ion Max. With the Element Max A.I. Core combined with the NRG Solid Reactive Coverstock, the Ion Max will redefine power and versatility to any straighter player's game! The Ion Max is strong, predictable, and will undoubtedly deliver results. So, stop into your local Storm VIP Pro Shop and have our Ion Max ready to roll in tonight's league! The Ion Max is well worth it! Rick Klimowicz Storm Products Pro Shop Staff Roll the Ball Pro Shop Penndel, PA

The Storm ION Max is the latest addition to the Storm lineup, taking everything we loved about the Storm Ion Pro and making it making it even stronger for those higher volume conditions. In this review, I will compare the features, performance, of the ION Max to the ION Pro The ION Max takes the foundation established by the Pro and amplifies it. Featuring an upgraded core design and the new NRG Solid coverstock, the Max offers even more traction on the lanes and up to 50% more flare potential than the Ion Pro. The asymmetrical AI core provides a dynamic motion that is incredibly responsive. I found the ION Max to excel on medium to heavy oil, offering a continuous motion that translates to powerful pin action. Overall, the Storm ION Max represents a significant evolution of the already popular Storm Ion Pro. With its upgraded coverstock, dynamic core, and impressive backend reaction, it caters to bowlers looking for a high-performance ball that can handle a variety of conditions with ease. While the Ion Pro remains a solid choice for reliability and predictability, the ION Max shines when it comes to performance versatility and increased hook potential. If you are in the market for a ball that will excel when there is a lot of oil, this is the one! Sean Daniels 900 Global Staff Hillsboro, Oregon

Core: Element Max A.I. Core Asymmetrical Coverstock: NRG Solid Reactive Finish: 2000-grit Abralon RG: 2.47 Diff: 0.055 Length: Early Hook Potential: High Lane Condition: Heavy Oil Fragrance: Strawberry Milkshake Layout: 4 x 4 x 4 VLS LANE CONDITION Length: 42' Volume: Medium/Heavy Type: THS COMMENTS Introducing the new Storm Ion Max. A high-performance bowling ball designed for a powerful and controllable option on medium to heavy oil conditions. The Ion Max features the Element Max A.I. Core which is modified with a flip disk to raise the flare Diff to .055 when compared to the Ion Pro. An asymmetrical, designed to provide a strong mid-lane and backend reaction combined with the added weighted disk, delivers unmatched torque and control for a strong and continuous motion through the pins. This makes it a great choice for bowlers who like to play down and in, as well as deep on the lanes. The ball is equipped with the proven NRG Solid Reactive coverstock, finished with a 2000 grit Abralon. This coverstock ensures traction through heavy oil volumes, making it ideal for sport lane conditions. Used a PIN DOWN layout for versatility which gave me that smooth and predictable roll, which is crucial for maintaining consistent control. The ball's strong coverstock and core design allow for various drilling layouts, making it adaptable to different playing styles and lane conditions. My impression of the Storm Ion Max is a powerful and reliable bowling ball that can complement your arsenal, especially on challenging oil patterns. Its combination of a strong backend reaction and consistent performance makes it a valuable addition to any bowler's bag. Visit your local VIP Proshop today! As always Bowl Up a Storm https://youtu.be/BnWwqaBeVqA?si=ITjlHJgziJjCo2tG

Ball Specs: Storm Ion Max NRG Solid Reactive Cover 2000 Abralon Sanded Asymetric Element Max A.I. Core Layout 3-3/4 x 5 with 1-1/2” Pin Buffer Bowler Specs: Right Hand. PAP 5” Over 1/2 up Rev Rate 300. Tilt 20. Rotation 50. Speed at release 17 Review: If you are looking for a heavy oil ball the new Ion Max would be a great choice. I had heard this was a big hooking ball and I had seen a couple go down the lane before I drilled mine. Having some Intel, I thought it would be best to put a later rolling drill pattern on mine and give it a test. I put my Mass Bias pretty much in my thumb and pin up in an increased back end position. This ball still hooks early and covers a lot of boards. I left the Ion Max at the box finish. On our regular house shot I had to make sure I started the ball in the oil and get to the breakpoint farther down the lane. If the ball saw the friction too soon it was definitely going to cross too many boards. The only time the ball rolled too early and lacked power was when I tried to slow hook it. The Ion Max will need oil or speed to perform its best. The hit on this ball was better than expected on the flush or high hits. Lighter pocket hits did not seem to carry as well due to the lack of entry angle. This is common for such a strong cover. The Ion Max can be polished for more length and backend but the Max is still pretty smooth polished. A buddy of mine has an Ion Max and his speed is slow and he plays the dry so the ball burns up too quick for him. This being said, I would not recommend the Ion Max for slower speed bowlers who like to play the friction. For bowlers on a fresh or heavier pattern this ball will work very well. The Ion Max would also be a great choice for the speed dominate player. Summary: The color and strawberry scent of this ball are very appealing. The Ion Max is definitely a big hooking oil ball. If you bowl on heavy oil, or are speed dominate the Ion Max is a very good choice.. Glenn Wendel Storm Pro Shop Staff gwendel@comcast.net www.stormbowling.com Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf9k4ZMkagM&error=0

Ball Specs: Storm Ion Max NRG Solid Reactive Cover 2000 Abralon Sanded Asymetric Element Max A.I. Core Layout 3-3/4 x 5 with 1-1/2” Pin Buffer Bowler Specs: Right Hand. PAP 5” Over 1/2 up Rev Rate 300. Tilt 20. Rotation 50. Speed at release 17 Review: If you are looking for a heavy oil ball the new Ion Max would be a great choice. I had heard this was a big hooking ball and I had seen a couple go down the lane before I drilled mine. Having some Intel, I thought it would be best to put a later rolling drill pattern on mine and give it a test. I put my Mass Bias pretty much in my thumb and pin up in an increased back end position. This ball still hooks early and covers a lot of boards. I left the Ion Max at the box finish. On our regular house shot I had to make sure I started the ball in the oil and get to the breakpoint farther down the lane. If the ball saw the friction too soon it was definitely going to cross too many boards. The only time the ball rolled too early and lacked power was when I tried to slow hook it. The Ion Max will need oil or speed to perform its best. The hit on this ball was better than expected on the flush or high hits. Lighter pocket hits did not seem to carry as well due to the lack of entry angle. This is common for such a strong cover. The Ion Max can be polished for more length and backend but the Max is still pretty smooth polished. A buddy of mine has an Ion Max and his speed is slow and he plays the dry so the ball burns up too quick for him. This being said, I would not recommend the Ion Max for slower speed bowlers who like to play the friction. For bowlers on a fresh or heavier pattern this ball will work very well. The Ion Max would also be a great choice for the speed dominate player. Summary: The color and strawberry scent of this ball are very appealing. The Ion Max is definitely a big hooking oil ball. If you bowl on heavy oil, or are speed dominate the Ion Max is a very good choice.. Glenn Wendel Storm Pro Shop Staff gwendel@comcast.net www.stormbowling.com Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nf9k4ZMkagM&error=0

Ball Reviews: Ion Max: Asymmetric, strong and designed for heavy oil conditions. The Ion Max with its strong engine will combat the heaviest of oil. Built for the fresh to play on top of it early and slowly migrating in as the transition begins, the Ion Max will be the strongest ball out the bag. This ball can be used with a lot of volume, tighter oil conditions and/or longer oil patterns. Sublime Focus: Symmetric and strong. What I like about this ball is the ability to keep my angles tight and up the lane when there is more oil or they are tighter and the stronger asymmetric's are too much ball. For comparison purposes against the other symmetric solids, this will be earlier than a Phaze 2 and provide a heavier roll smoother roll. Phaze AI: The Phaze AI is a throwback to those cleaner angular Storm bowling balls. This ball reminds me of what the UC2 provided with discernible backend motion. This ball will be usable for when the lanes begin to transition, open up and left to right (for righties/reverse for lefties) is needed without losing angle and continuation down lane. This is a great option to have when the solids become too smooth. Video Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwBg2kS4_vg

I’ve been looking for a really strong ball in the Storm brands offerings. I have found it with the Ion Max. The Ion Pro is a great ball and Storm souped it up. The NRG Solid Reactive cover has plenty of teeth to not overskid the front part of the lane, even on high volume oil patterns. The lower RG helps the ball rev in the midlane. Typically, I find balls with strong coverstocks have higher RG cores, so the ball still lopes off my hand and can still miss the midlane. That is not a problem with the Ion Max. The Element Max A.I. Core takes the core from the Ion Pro and adds a weighted disk significantly increasing the differential. That added flare potential results in a continuous ball motion downlane. Bottom line, the Ion Max has the perfect combination to grab the lane off your hand and still have a strong back end to knock all 10 down. If you are looking for a strong ball to add to your bag, the Ion Max is my recommendation. I drilled mine pin up, 4 ½" from my PAP and with PSA 4" from my PAP.

Storm Ion Max Layout: 5.0 x 4.0 x 2.0 Storm Pin Buffer Layout Rev Rate: 325 rpm, 7 degree of axis tilt, 40 degree of axis rotation Testing information: 41 foot THS (medium to light volume) Bowling Center: Fulton Bowling Center IKON Kegel Machine – Brunswick Anvilane The Storm Ion Max utilizes the NRG Solid reactive cover along with the Element weight block plus AI Core technology. Who doesn’t love a strawberry milkshake? The Ion Max smells great. The color scheme of the coverstock is pretty sharp as well. I had a chance to test it on the PBA Salvino oil pattern at a recent PBA50 regional. The Storm Ion Max looked very good. I threw it all seven games of qualifying. I also threw it on the same pattern during my ball review. The ball looked phenomenal. I see the Ion Max in the same category as the Eternity PI. The Ion Max is a touch longer than your Gem or Harsh Reality, with more backend motion. Visit your local Storm VIP Pro Shop! #Stormnation #SquadRG

I’ve been looking for a really strong ball in the Storm brands offerings. I have found it with the Ion Max. The Ion Pro is a great ball and Storm souped it up. The NRG Solid Reactive cover has plenty of teeth to not overskid the front part of the lane, even on high volume oil patterns. The lower RG helps the ball rev in the midlane. Typically, I find balls with strong coverstocks have higher RG cores, so the ball still lopes off my hand and can still miss the midlane. That is not a problem with the Ion Max. The Element Max A.I. Core takes the core from the Ion Pro and adds a weighted disk significantly increasing the differential. That added flare potential results in a continuous ball motion downlane. Bottom line, the Ion Max has the perfect combination to grab the lane off your hand and still have a strong back end to knock all 10 down. If you are looking for a strong ball to add to your bag, the Ion Max is my recommendation. I drilled mine pin up, 4 ½" from my PAP and with PSA 4" from my PAP.

The Ion Pro was Storm's first asymmetrical benchmark ball and was a big success on the lanes. With the advent of the Element Tour A.I. core, Storm was able to utilize and increase flare potential and come out with its newest design, a 2000 solid reactive, the Ion Max. I decided to go with the same layout as my Ion Pro (45 x 4.5 x 30). Testing it at my home center's 42ft league house shot, and comparing it to my Harsh Reality Solid, I found the Max to be a little stronger in shape with similar down lane motion. Both balls have a strong continuation as it recovers in the oil, creating that smooth down lane motion to the pins. The Ion Pro would be a level below the Max, as it's more cleaner and smoother, with more shape down lane. I would find the Ion Max to be more versatile on higher volume patterns as well as on your typical league house shot depending on surface and mLs. It's colors and strawberry milkshake scent also makes the ball amazing! Be sure to stop by your local pro shop and drill an Ion Max today. You won't be disappointed. Thomas Coco (storm staffer)

The Ion Max enhances the performance that is already available with the Ion Pro. The Ion Max features asymmetrical Element Max A.I. core and a strong NRG Solid coverstock. One thing for sure - this bowling ball is powerful but very controllable. Knowing that the core of the Ion Max has a lot of flare potential, I drilled mine with my usual pin-down layout that I normally use on strong asymmetrical bowling balls: 55 x 5 x 75. Out of the box, the Ion Max comes very dull, so as anticipated, the first 15 or 20 shots reacted very early and strong. Once the coverstock “lane-shined” and stabilized a little bit, I saw a very smooth and controllable ball motion. The bowling ball gets into the roll phase early and is very “forward” at the end of the lane. I was, however, surprised that the Ion Max responded to my release adjustment quite well, which will allow me to use this bowling ball for a longer time frame – something I couldn’t do with similar bowling balls like Gem or Harsh Reality. I think a lot of people will find success with the Ion Max as, in my opinion, its range of use is a little wider than let’s say a Gem. I am almost certain that it will become my go to strong, dull asymmetrical bowling ball in my arsenal. I believe the Ion Max matches up great with fresh medium to shorter oil patterns where bowlers need more controlled, slower ball motion down the lane. This ball also looks great on wet/dry conditions as it blends the wet/dry motion very well. Those who are looking for a strong asymmetrical bowling ball should definitely consider the Ion Max. Watch myself and Verity Crawley throw the Ion Max on “The Bowling Passport” YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/qSan0jw3tmw?si=7uCddpGD7KAy2nqn

Welcome back as we have a great one for you from STORM! If you're a fan of these reviews I want to thank you for watching and reading these reviews and hope it gives you some information to take back when looking to get your next bowling ball. TESTING ENVIRONMENT Length:42 Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc): House Shot BALL: Storm ION Max Coverstock: NRG Solid Coverstock Core: : Element Max A.I. Core Finish: 2000 Grit RG: 2.49 (14 Pounds) Differential: 0.053 (14 Pounds) MB/PSA: 0.010 (14 Pounds) ME: Right-Handed Tweener Speed: 14-15 mph Rev Rate: 210 PAP: 4 7/8 right 5/8 up Ball Layout: 5x4x2 The ION MAX is that for sure. For those of you that have thrown the ION Pro you have seen it to be a no thrills ball in which most of the “PRO’ balls are made for a certain place and do not do more than it was built for. The ION MAX is the daddy to the PRO in the regards that this ball for lower rev players with surface to higher rev players with box to polish can all throw this ball. I see this ball a step down from a 900 Global Sublime Focus but can also be the first ball out of your bag on a THS. In this video I start right and slowly move left and this ball keeps on coming. For a bigger ball I saw where it did well in the midlanes without trying to dig too much into the lane. I did get to a point where the lane wouldn't let me get it right from a much bigger angle and at that point you will want to ball down to a cleaner piece. Thanks for watching and if you like this or any of the jerseys in my videos just head over to www.IAmBowling.com and use HIRSCH at checkout for 20% off. This ball is available today at Bowlers Choice Pro Shop inside Castle Lanes in Racine, WI or your local STORM VIP Pro Shop #Storm #SquadRG #GoGlobal #VISE #viseinserts #BowlersChoiceProShop #3GShoes #stormbowling #iambowling #sheridanlanes #Castlelanes #900global #MasenHirschBowling #teamshimmy #USBC #kenoshaYouthBowling #MatchMaker Check out my full ball reaction video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SOtuoptaJc4?si=vQIh9MRsyBl3HM5I

Dual Angle Layout One: 55 x 1 ½ x 40 Storm Vector Layout One: 1 ½ x 5 7/8 x 1 Dual Angle Layout Two: 50 x 3 ¾ x 40 Storm Vector Layout Two: 3 ¾ x 4 ½ x 2 1/4 The New Storm Ion Max features the Storm NRG Solid Reactive cover stock wrapped around the Storm Element Max AI Asymmetrical Core. I drilled 2 of these balls because it is so good. I drilled one with a short pin to pap layout to allow myself to combat over/under reaction at my primary league house. This layout provided me a smooth but controlled reaction which allows me to play straighter on a dry league condition. The 2nd Ion Max I put a much stronger layout which allows me to play in the oil on heavier conditions. The Ion Max gives me a good amount of length for a solid but plenty of backend to kick out the corners. If your looking for a heavy oil ball this is the ball for you.

The Ion Max’s added weighted disc and extra flare potential made this ball very forgiving for myself. I have been recovering from an injury so my approach is much shorter and everything is down. This ball has rolled phenomenally and it just drives through the pins, even when I do not throw it the best. I love solid coverstocks and this ball is working its way up to being my all time favorite. Oh yea and the strawberry milkshake scent is so good, it definitely makes you want one.

TESTING ENVIRONMENT Length:43 Volume:Med-High Type (THS, Sport Pattern etc):THS 12:1 Ratio COMMENTS Core: Element Max A.I. Core Asymmetrical (14-16#) Coverstock: NRG Solid Reactive Finish: 2000 RG: 2.47 Differential: 0.055 ME: Right-Handed Tweener Speed: 12-13 mph Rev Rate: 315 Axis Tilt: 14° Axis Rotation: 74° PAP: 5 1/8 R 7/8 Up Ball Layout: Pin In Middle Finger 5 1/2 X 4 3/4 X 3 3/4 VLS Storm's New Hook Monster is the Premier line release called Ion Max. The Ion Pro took benchmark to a new place in the industry and Ion Max is doing the same for High Performance. Adding a weighted disk to the element core featured in the Ion pro substantially raises the differential creating a crazy amount of flare. The paired this new core with the early rolling NRG Solid cover that had been featured on some previous releases like the Vivid. The result of more core and more cover adds up to more ball, and this thing will handle oil with the best of them. I tested the Ion Max on our house pattern in league. I was impressed with the mid-lane dig in practice, and threw the Ion Max game 1. I noticed by about the middle of the first game that the fronts were already starting to go and as soon as I had to cover more boards, the Ion Max wanted to roll out going into the pins. I played with angles and releases trying to get it back before deciding that it was simply too much ball for the worn out front panels here. Before the next week I had resolved to try polishing the ball to see if it would retain energy a bit better. I had essentially the same look game one, with a bit better carry for almost the entire game. Again I noticed that moving left made it difficult to carry. I had noticed that the bigger scores in league seemed to be by the guys who could stay further right. On a whim I moved back a bit right and just tried to jam the ball into the friction with as much speed and as little hand as I could. I immediately saw an improvement in my ball reaction and I managed to stay in the ball all 3 games. I would definitely say this ball will skew to high speed and lower rev bowlers. It is very like the Roto Grip Gem for me. That ball had so much for success for many people but I never felt like I ran into enough volume to warrant keeping it in my bag. That being said I've already seen the Ion Max working exceptionally well for some of the lower rev bowlers in our league and if I bowled on sport conditions more I'd definitely see it being of use more often. It could be useful and a stronger control ball in places where the back-ends are too quick as well.

The Ion Pro was Storm's first asymmetrical benchmark ball and was a big success on the lanes. With the advent of the Element Tour A.I. core, Storm was able to utilize and increase flare potential and come out with its newest design, a 2000 solid reactive, the Ion Max. I decided to go with the same layout as my Ion Pro (45 x 4.5 x 30). Testing it at my home center's 42ft league house shot, and comparing it to my Harsh Reality Solid, I found the Max to be a little stronger in shape with similar down lane motion. Both balls have a strong continuation as it recovers in the oil, creating that smooth down lane motion to the pins. The Ion Pro would be a level below the Max, as it's more cleaner and smoother, with more shape down lane. I would find the Ion Max to be more versatile on higher volume patterns as well as on your typical league house shot depending on surface and mLs. It's colors and strawberry milkshake scent also makes the ball amazing! Be sure to stop by your local pro shop and drill an Ion Max today. You won't be disappointed. Thomas Coco (storm staffer)

Storm Ion Max - Premier Line Coverstock: NRG Solid - 2000 Grit Core: Element Max A.I. RG: 2.47 Differential: .055 PSA: .014 (15 lbs) Fragrance: Strawberry Milkshake Layout: 5.5 x 5 x 3 PAP: 6" Right, 1 3/8" Up Axis Tilt: 16° Rotation: 51° Rev Rate: 450-500 Speed: 17-18 mph Location: Vista Lanes - Yorkville, NY Pattern: Kegel Carbon Lane Surface: HPL The Ion Max was created to generate unprecedented power while maintaining adaptability and consistency on heavy oil patterns. The Max features the NRG solid coverstock with the Element Max A.I. core, which will produce 50% more flare potential than the Ion Pro. The Ion Max was designed to complement and be a step up from the Ion Pro. The Ion Max gave me a great look sliding on 30, looking 18 at the arrows with my breakpoint around 7-8, but if I wanted to play straighter I could get softer with my hand and stay more up the back of the ball. It also looked great further left with more tilt and slower ball speed. When compared to the Ion Pro, the Max was 3-4 boards stronger, a couple feet sooner, and more forward off the end of the pattern. The Ion Max will be my big solid asymmetric that comes out on heavy or long tournament patterns. For bowlers on higher volume league patterns, the Max could be an excellent choice and when you need something cleaner, a switch the Pro will be the way to go. Stop by your local Storm VIP pro shop to check it out!