The 2Fast is one of two new releases in Storm’s Hot Line for the 2010/2011 season. This one is slated to replace the Fast. The change between these two balls is in the core design. Storm has stayed with their proven R2S cover for this new release. The N.O.S. core offers a slightly lower RG and higher differential compared to the Turbine core used in the Fast and Furious. This core/cover combination allows for faster revving ball motion, which allows for more friction between the ball and the lane compared to the Fast.

During our testing, we found the 2Fast to match up best with our medium length and volume oil pattern. The 1500-grit polished factory finish gave each tester easy length, allowing for plenty of energy retention for the breakpoint. We were able to create a much stronger angle of entry into the pins than we could with the 2Furious. The factory finish of the 2Furious created a much stronger read of the midlane, thus taking away from the strength at the breakpoint. The 2Fast gave us the extra push through the midlane, thus saving a ton more energy for the breakpoint and back end.

Moving over to the shorter oil pattern, we found Stroker to have the best overall reaction, with Tweener having the second best look. Those with lower rev rates will have a better time controlling the ball off the friction. Those with higher rev rates will have to be very careful on short patterns due to the extra friction that the pattern creates. Longer pin-to-PAP layouts will be a must to help create more lope through the front with less flare to help smooth the reaction off the dry.

Longer oil patterns will limit the usefulness of this reactive pearl. Those with higher rev rates will be able to get the 2Fast to pick up the lane from a more direct line to the pocket, but the carry will be a little suspect due to the later breakpoint. Those with medium and lower rev rates will need to change to something like the 2Furious, which offers more friction with the lane due to the rougher factory finish. This ball will fare better on broken down sport patterns rather than fresh ones.

Strengths: What we liked most about the 2Fast was its easy length and aggressive move at the breakpoint and back end. Most bowlers are looking for the big move at the back end of the lane and that is what the 2Fast offers.

Weaknesses: The aggressive breakpoint and back end reaction isn’t ideal for shorter oil patterns, especially for those with higher rev rates. Those with lower rev rates will have trouble getting this pearl to pick up the lane on heavy and long patterns.

Overall Summary: Even though the 2Fast can handle a bit more oil than the Fast, it still maintains the long and strong reaction for which the Fast was known. This ball will be ideal for most league shots were there is oil in the middle and dry to the outside.