Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball Bowling Ball

The Hammer Black Widow Viz-A-Ball is a plastic (polyester) bowling ball, not a reactive or urethane performance ball. Plastic balls roll in a straight line with low hook potential, making this one a strong choice for spare shooting or casual play rather than heavy hook shots.

Unlike the reactive resin Black Widow performance balls built for big hooks on heavy oil, this version uses a polyester coverstock. That makes it the approachable, straight-rolling option in the lineup, ideal for spares and lighter lane conditions. It shares the iconic Black Widow look and Gas Mask core, but it is built for a completely different role on the lanes.

Viz-A-Ball is Hammer's line of visually striking bowling balls that feature bold, graphic designs printed across the entire surface. The name is essentially shorthand for 'visual ball.' The style is all about making a statement at the lanes while still delivering real on-lane performance based on the ball's coverstock and core.

Yes, it is well suited for spare shooting. Plastic balls like this one travel in a straight, predictable path without curving, which makes it much easier to aim at corner pins or single-pin spares. Many league bowlers carry a plastic spare ball alongside their main hook ball for exactly this reason.

The Gas Mask core is a design element inside the ball that influences its weight distribution and roll characteristics. In a plastic ball like this, the core contributes to hitting power at impact rather than creating hook. It helps the ball stay on track and hit the pins with authority, even on a straight delivery.