Track: 300A

45 Hook 16.5 Length 15 Breakpoint Shape

Manufacturer’s Intent: “With the release of the 300A, we wanted to design a ball that would complement the 300C and 300T in our lower-mid performance category,” says Track Brand Manager Rich Hanson. “In order to accomplish this, we needed to use the perfect combination of core and cover. During our product development stage, we found that combining our Track Symmetric Core and Gen MA cover provided us with the right look on the lanes.”

Core Design: The simplistic symmetrical core shape is designed for minimal track flare and a later breakpoint. The RG is 2.57 and the 3-inch flaring differential is .029. The conservative core shape is consistent for the 300A, 300C and 300T balls.

Coverstock: The Gen MA (moderate angle) reactive coverstock is one of Track’s lowest friction covers. Colors are a fusion of black, yellow and purple. The factory finish is sanded with 800, 1000, 2000 and 4000 grits prior to polishing. The Ra level is very low; this encourages easy and excellent length while lessening the total hook.

Test Results: The 300A matched up quite nicely on our light to light-medium oil volume patterns as long as we stayed very near friction areas. Playing the lanes correctly rewarded us with easy transition reads and very good pin carry. If we ventured a little too deep with our feet, we saw too much length and weak hit. My high-rev tester, Ron Vokes, had the easiest time opening up the pattern thanks in part to his 18-mph speed and 420 rev rate. He was able to maintain the pocket and pin carry as deep as the sixth arrow when playing on the burn. The 300A had similar length to the 300C, but did display one to two boards more back-end hook.

When to Use: Most bowler styles will enjoy the 300A on burnt lane conditions or those where lighter oil volumes are chosen. The conservative cover and core are matched nicely to offer controlled power with a hint more backend than other light oil products. Light surface scuffing can help the 300A read the lane sooner, but it will do little to allow for uses on medium and heavier oil volumes. The 912T (reviewed next) can and will handle any heavier volume patterns with ease.