45 Hook 16 Length 15 Breakpoint Shape

Core Design: The Karma Solid and Pearl share the same medium 2.53 RG, and Brunswick maintains the same .040 Differential rating on all cores in 12 through 16 pounds. This consistency helps players using lighter weights produce enough track flare for stronger back-end ball motion.

Coverstock: The blue and green pearlized version of the Karma is destined for use on high friction areas. The surface is finished the same as the solid version, but appears shinier due to the pearl additive. Response time also is moderate off drier boards, and oil traction is very limited.

Manufacturer’s Intent: Bill Orlikowski said this: “Our intent for the Karma Blue Green Pearl was to add an affordable performance ball that would expand the range of motion in our current product line, especially on medium to light oil.”

Test Results: When comparing like-drilled Karma balls, the pearl edition was 2-3 feet later and had 2-4 boards less overall hook compared to the solid on most test patterns. Both gave us our best looks on light to medium oils regardless of layout. Our choices were 3, 4 and 5” pin distance from the PAP, but none ever gave us great looks on heavier volumes due to the mildness of the coverstock formulation. Brunswick’s design team likes to match cover and core strength, and the Karma line marries a mild cover with a low-medium strength core. The end result is easy usability on shorter and low oil volumes where bowlers can play near the friction areas of the ball track.

When to Use: Playing near the ball track on either Sport or house shots can improve pin carry for lower rev rates by allowing the ball to retain axis rotation longer, thereby increasing one’s entry angle. Less overall ball motion often can improve scorability by increasing hold area in the oil and reducing over-hook if we miss into the dry. Higher rev rates often don’t have these entry angle issues. The Karma line provides benchmark control, which also can help many intermediate bowlers conquer lane oil transitional phases with greater ease.