The Strongest Plastic Bowling Ball Ever!? Black Widow Vis-A-Ball Review

Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball Review

The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball wraps a Gas Mask asymmetric core in plastic, creating the strongest-hooking spare ball on the market. Watch the review.

By BowlingBallVideos.com Staff Tested Apr 12, 2026 3 videos analyzed 21 verified bowler reviews
8.4
Overall
Great Score
Weight
12-16 lbs
Coverstock
Polyester
Core
Asymmetric
Hook
Low
Price
$129.95

Performance Analysis

Performance Analysis

Testing of the Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball revealed a straightforward, predictable ball motion well-suited to dry oil conditions. On the test pattern, independent reviewers observed that the polyester coverstock produced minimal hook, allowing the ball to travel cleanly down the boards with controllable backend motion. The asymmetric core provided enough differential to generate pin action without excessive angle changes, making it an uncomplicated option for bowlers seeking reliability over complexity.

The ball demonstrated consistency across multiple frames, producing multiple strikes when thrown with proper mechanics from similar starting positions (approximately the 17 board, targeting up the 5 board). Reviewers noted that while the Black Widow Viz-a-Ball did not always carry the 7 and 10 pins cleanly, it produced solid pocket hits and pin carry on full hits. The plastic coverstock proved durable through an extended game session, and the ball’s straightforward motion—described as a “point-and-shoot” approach—eliminated guesswork from the approach. At this price point, the performance delivery was consistent with expectations for a no-frills spare or practice ball.

Who Is This Ball For?

The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball is ideal for bowlers who want an affordable, low-maintenance option for dry lane conditions without overthinking shot selection. This ball suits players who prefer simplicity and predictability—those who benefit from standing in a set position and targeting a specific board without worrying about reactive motion or surface changes. It’s also a practical choice for bowlers working on fundamentals and mechanics, since the ball’s forgiving nature rewards solid technique rather than compensating for poor form.

This ball is particularly valuable for competitive bowlers as a spare ball, given its controllable motion and reliable pocket entry. Recreational players frustrated with complex equipment will appreciate the straightforward performance, and practice sessions benefit from having a ball that delivers consistent results without requiring extensive adjustments. At $129.95, it offers budget-conscious bowlers genuine performance without premium pricing.

Hook Potential
4.0
Length Through Heads
9.0
Back-End Continuity
3.0
Pin Action
6.5
Versatility
6.0
Value for Money
7.5

The Pros

  • Gas Mask core in a plastic shell — hooks more than any typical spare ball
  • Iconic Black Widow design makes it a collector's piece
  • Dual purpose: spare ball that can hook when needed

The Cons

  • Too much hook for a pure spare ball — not ideal for straight shooters
  • Plastic cover won't hold up to heavy use like reactive
  • More expensive than standard spare balls

Who Is This Ball For?

The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball wraps a Gas Mask asymmetric core in plastic, creating the strongest-hooking spare ball on the market. Watch the review.

Bowlers who want a spare ball with hook potentialBlack Widow collectorsDry lane conditions

Technical Specifications

Core Details (Gas Mask Core)
RG (15 lbs) 2.48
Differential 0.058
Int. Differential 0.013
Coverstock Plastic
Core Type Asymmetric
Factory Finish Polished
Color Grey / White
Release Date 2022

How It Compares

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Black Widow Viz-a-ball vs White Dot: The Ultimate Comparison
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Black Widow Viz-a-ball vs White Dot: The Ultimate Comparison

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Black Widow Viz a Ball
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Black Widow Viz a Ball

Keith Brown

Verified Bowler Reviews (65 reviews, 4.7/5 avg)

4.7out of 5

65 verified purchase reviews

94% of bowlers recommend this ball

Write a Review

Bowlers Say

Bowlers say the Black Widow Viz-a-Ball is an eye-catching spare ball that also performs well as a strike ball on dry conditions. They praise its hard-hitting pin action and versatility, with many using it beyond spares when lanes break down. Common criticism is that the actual color differs from promotional photos.

AI summary of 65 verified purchase reviews

Bowlers frequently mention:

Spool43 Nov 27, 2021

The first week the ball was on my wall it got attention from everyone that walked in the shop. Everyone commented on how great it looked. Within the first 72 hours it was sold. Awesome job on creating this ball.

United States

Chris Monroy Nov 30, 2021

2 very quick thoughts on the new Hammer Widow Viz-A-Ball. First, it is an extremely cool looking plastic ball that will draw alot of attention. Second, if you are looking for performance, the Widow Viz-A-Ball under the right conditions and proper surface preparation, will give performance. I drilled one primarily for spares and as I always do for any spare ball, I knock the shine off with a Siaair pad. The layout I used on mine was 40x4x20. On leftover THS, was able to get right on top of the dry to the right and where the Widow Viz-A-Ball has the Gas Mask core, was able to get the ball to tip and go through the pins effectively.

United States

Brooke Newhart May 10, 2022

Just received it in the mail today. Needs drilled but looks fantastic. Can’t wait to use it!

United States

philbid May 14, 2022

Just got the ball yesterday and drilled it. I'm a tweener and throw around 17 mph. No problems picking up 10 pins using normal release. The ball bounces off 3/10 split allowing me to pick it up off inside of the 3 and moves into the 10. I also used it as the lanes dried up and was able to slow the speed to 15 and throw over second arrow and into the pocket. It clears the deck unlike other spare balls I've owned. This ball hits hard and sends pins flying when I cranked it up to 19 mph and tried some wider splits. I'd recommend this for anyone and it already has helped my average go up. Great for recreational bowling.

United States

Charles Foster Jun 18, 2022

I love it! I was a little surprised to see that it is actually a darker gray than pictured, but, that turned out to be a plus.

AR, United States

Showing 1–5 of 21 verified reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What oil condition is the Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball best for?
The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball is designed for dry oil conditions. It features a polyester coverstock with a Polished finish, which gives it the length and control needed on lighter oil patterns where stronger balls would overreact.
Is the Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball good for beginners?
The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball has low hook potential, making it a forgiving option that newer bowlers can control. Its predictable motion helps build confidence while still providing enough reaction to develop technique.
What is the RG and differential of the Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball?
The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball has an RG of 2.48 and a differential of 0.058, with an intermediate differential of 0.013. The lower RG means it revs up earlier, creating an earlier roll in the midlane. The high differential creates strong flare potential and aggressive ball motion.
How much does the Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball cost?
The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball is priced at $129.95. This is a competitive price point for a ball in its performance category. You can find it at BowlersMart.com with free shipping and 60-day returns.
What type of bowler should use the Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball?
The Hammer Black Widow Viz-a-Ball is best suited for bowlers who want maximum flare potential and angular ball motion. With its polyester coverstock on dry conditions, it works well for speed-dominant players and straighter bowlers who need control without over-hooking.

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