Hammer Obsession & Obsession Tour | Release Video

Hammer Obsession Tour Review

Name: Hammer Obsession Tour
Brand: Hammer
Rating: 5.0 (21 reviews)

While no longer in production, the Hammer Obsession Tour remains a solid option on the used market for bowlers seeking a reliable medium-heavy oil ball. The asymmetrical core and TourV2 Solid coverstock combination delivers predictable, strong performance when lanes get challenging.

By BowlingBallVideos.com Staff Tested Apr 22, 2026 8 videos analyzed 21 verified bowler reviews

hey hammerheads bill o'neal here it's time to introduce the newest pair of performance balls to the hammer line the obsession and the obsession tour [Music] my first impression of the obsession solid is that it's the perfect ball for freshly oiled lanes this is the ball that you can use right out of the box it's not too dull so you just get right out there on the lanes and when the oil is the heaviest and the freshest this is the perfect ball

this ball is gonna fit anybody who holds on competitive lane conditions that also maybe throws it really hard this ball picks up really well in the oil and it can also be really good for the people who have lower rev rates because it's gonna it's gonna pick up early it's gonna keep going [Music] the obsession features an rg of 2.468 differential of o50 an intermediate of o13 and is matched with the envy solid cfi solid cover stock this combination will be best suited for the heavier oil conditions you will face

with the 500 1500 sierra finish the obsession will match up especially well with faster ball speeds and lower rev rates looking for an edge when the lanes are slick for the bowlers out there who are looking for a little extra hook and for the competitive bowlers out there that are seeing really long patterns with a lot of volume the obsession solid is the perfect ball for you

we're serious bowlers looking for serious performance when the lanes get tough we introduced the obsession tour the obsession tour is your perfect benchmark bowling ball it's going to be a ball that goes on the rack immediately it's going to be a well-rounded ball that you can use on a variety of different lane conditions and there's going to be so much drilling versatility with this ball that it's something you can have multiples of because it's going to work well when you have it pinned down pin up or you change the surface on with the obsession tour having an all-new core that is lower differential

but also asymmetric it really rounds out the hammer bowling line the obsession tour features a lower differential asymmetric core with an rg of 2.469 differential of 034 with the same intermediate of 013 with the tor v2 solid cover stock finished at 500 1000 sierra you'll be obsessed with how this ball controls any pattern you see with dot technology you're going to be able to have a wide variety of drillings on this ball you can do

whatever you need to do with the layouts to make this ball really successful comparing the obsession and the obsession tour even though they have similar weight blocks the obsession tour has a much lower differential and so they're very very different bowling balls the obsession is going to be the ball right out of the box that you're going to use on the heavier oil lanes and then when they get a little bit drier and the ball starts to slow down a little bit that's when the obsession tour comes into play and you're going to be able to use that ball for a really long time

if you're someone who really likes to get in you really like to hook the whole lane the obsession solid is the ball for you if you're somebody who likes to control the pattern a little bit maybe keep your angles a little more in front of you that's when you're gonna go with the obsession tour and that's all today for the new obsession and the obsession tour get yours at your local pro shop february 18. for more information on the obsession obsession tour and all hammer bowling products follow us on all social media platforms and visit us at hammerbowling.com

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Auto-generated transcript · 650 words

8.3

Overall

Great Score

Weight

12-16 lbs

Coverstock

Solid

Core

Asymmetric

Hook

High

Performance Analysis

Testing revealed that the Hammer Obsession Tour functions as a well-rounded, versatile benchmark ball capable of handling multiple lane conditions with consistent performance. Independent reviewers observed that the ball’s lower differential asymmetric core (0.034 differential, 2.469 RG) delivers controlled motion across varying oil patterns, making it particularly effective as conditions transition from heavier to medium oil. The Tor V2 solid coverstock, finished at 500/1000 Sierra grit, provides responsive hook development without excessive skid length, allowing bowlers to maintain manageable angles downlane rather than requiring extreme board play.

What distinguished the Obsession Tour during testing was its drilling versatility and adaptability. Reviewers noted that the ball’s design accommodates multiple layout options—pin-down, pin-up, and various surface modifications—making it a ball that could realistically be carried in multiple configurations on a competitive arsenal. The lower differential compared to its sibling the Obsession Solid means the Tour reads lanes more gradually and maintains better control through the mid-lane, translating to predictable motion on patterns with moderate to high volume. This measured response made it particularly suitable for bowlers working through long patterns where excessive backend snap could prove counterproductive.

Who Is This Ball For?

The Obsession Tour is ideally suited for competitive bowlers and league players who prioritize control and consistency over maximum hook potential. Bowlers who prefer to keep their angles in front of them—rather than playing extreme boards—will find this ball’s predictable, arcing motion intuitive to read and adjust. It’s an excellent choice for those building a serious arsenal, since its versatility means a single coverstock option can be drilled multiple ways to cover different oil volumes and lane transition phases.

This ball also fits well for bowlers transitioning from fresh to breaking-down lane conditions without needing to completely change equipment. Rather than moving to a significantly different ball, surface adjustments and minor layout changes on the Obsession Tour can extend its usable window throughout a competition session. Ultimately, it’s the ball for players who value predictability, versatility, and the confidence that comes from a benchmark-style performer that responds logically to adjustments.

Hook Potential

8.0

Length Through Heads

6.0

Back-End Continuity

7.0

Pin Action

8.0

Versatility

6.0

Value for Money

7.0

The Pros

• Strong hook potential with asymmetrical core design
• Excellent pin action and carry
• Handles medium-heavy oil conditions effectively

The Cons

• Limited versatility on lighter oil patterns
• Discontinued status makes finding replacement difficult

Who Is This Ball For?

High rev rate bowlers seeking control on oily lanesTournament players facing medium-heavy oil conditionsBowlers who prefer early rolling, continuous motion

Technical Specifications

Core Details (Hammer Obsession Tour Core)

RG (15 lbs) 2.46

Differential 0.034

Int. Differential 0.013

Coverstock Hammer TourV2 Solid Reactive

Core Type Asymmetric

Factory Finish 1000 Grit

Color Red

Scent N/A

How It Compares

9.3

Verified Bowler Reviews (40 reviews, 5.0/5 avg)

5.0out of 5

40 verified purchase reviews

100% of bowlers recommend this ball

Write a Review

Bowlers Say

Bowlers praise the Obsession Tour as a versatile benchmark ball that hooks strongly while maintaining smooth, controllable motion throughout the lane. It excels on medium to heavy oil conditions and sport patterns due to its lower differential asymmetric core that provides less flare but consistent energy transfer through the pins.

AI summary of 40 verified purchase reviews

Bowlers frequently mention:

PHughes868 Feb 12, 2021

I drilled my Hammer Obsession Tour 45x4 ½ x35 to match my game. This ball is unique and will be my benchmark ball, replacing my symmetrical balls for league when I start. My lower rev rate of 300 and speed at 16mph usually keeps me from using very many asymmetrical bowling balls. I can throw this ball all night long as it is smooth as silk in all phases of the ball motion.

Chris Monroy Feb 13, 2021

Here is my take on the new Hammer Obsession TOUR. The Hammer Obsession Tour has a low RG/low diff. asymmetrical core wrapped by a burgundy colored solid Tour V2 cover. Box finish is 1000 Siaair. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled the Obsession Tour with a 60 x 6 x 20 layout and have thrown it at box surface and 3000 Abralon. I have tried the Obsession Tour on various THS as well as a 40 foot 2.75:1 medium volume sport pattern. Don’t let the Tour in the name fool you, the Obsession Tour flat out hooks a ton. The shape would be best described as strong yet smooth/continuous…they type of motion you would expect on a Tour ball. At 3000 Abralon, the Obsession Tour does show more length but even with the smoother surface, the Obsession Tour covers a lot of boards. Given the strength of the cover, you will be able to use this ball on the medium to higher volume patterns, depending on surface prep. This ball should especially be in play on medium to high volume SPORT patterns where control of the lane is key. In terms of comparison, the Obsession Tour reminds me a bit of the Track Kinetic Obsidian, but with an earlier motion and move overall hook. See your local proshop for more on the Hammer Obsession Tour.

M Staninger Feb 17, 2021

This ball fits between your typical big asymmetrical ball and your more angular symmetrical ball that may not be able to handle fresh conditions that makes the Obsession Tour very versatile It's strong but continuous, so it can give a great shape on many conditions. Check it out here: https://youtu.be/MlAmOtu5HHw

Bob Newman Feb 19, 2021

Super stoked to get this one in my hands. I like low differential cores, they just roll better for me. This is my first low diff. core that is also asymmetric. This ball rolled great right out of the box. Very smooth reaction yet still went through the pins the right way. I was on a THS and several times I rolled it into the friction early and expected it to shoot across the nose but it just went high flush, ten back instead of some split. This is gonna be a great ball for my arsenal.

Bill Robaey Mar 9, 2021

I haven't drilled this yet but it looks like an amazing addition to my collection!

D Kozlak May 4, 2021

Speed: 17.9 RPM: 480 PAP: 5 7/8 RT x 2 1/4 DN No-thumb, one league per week, tournaments when I can. Tremendous slouch. Controlled motion with an asymmetric core. Released at the same time as the Obsession Solid, the Obsession Tour has the same core shape, however, the Obsession Tour has a differential that is .016 points lower which creates less flare, less hook, and a more controllable reaction compared to the Obsession Solid and uses an updated version of the Tour cover found on the Web Tour balls. The Obsession Tour will create a unique reaction that will allow many players to stand closer to the dry and be great for higher rev players. With the out of box surface at 500/1000 and the new Obsession Tour core this ball is exactly as advertised as I get a controlled, lower flaring asymmetric core ball that allows me to keep a tighter line to the pocket (something that is generally associated with a symmetric core) which is a definite plus on tougher sport/challenge patterns as well as the 2021 USBC Masters pattern. I used a layout of 90x2.25x45 intending to have a ball motion that would replicate a urethane look without the urethane carry down, that will not overreact or be too jumpy down lane. That said, I’m still able to move both my feet and targets left during league and play a bigger rolling arc with the Obsession Tour still having enough energy to roll up to the pocket and split the 8-9 pins. Even on attempts that are light or ‘half pocket’ there’s a great ‘mix’ with the pins and getting the head pin as a messenger to take out that dreaded 10 pin. I haven’t yet attempted to alter the OOB finish. It’s not the prettiest ball that you’ll ever see but the solid Burgundy with Gold lettering does appeal to my eyes even though I prefer a mix of colors ...and those are the colors for the University of Minnesota (Go Gophers!) High performance and at the high price point, intended to have a strong mid lane and backend motion (even with my layout choice to tame that reaction) on medium to heavy oil, I’m not disappointed with the ball reaction and shape that I’m getting out of the Obsession Tour and I’m pretty sure you won’t be disappointed either. Be well, rip racks ...and shred pins.

Showing 1–5 of 21 verified reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What oil condition is the Hammer Obsession Tour best for?

The Hammer Obsession Tour is designed for medium-heavy oil conditions. It features a reactive solid coverstock with a 1000 Grit finish, which gives it the surface traction needed to grip through heavier oil patterns.

Is the Hammer Obsession Tour good for beginners?

The Hammer Obsession Tour is a high-performance ball with high hook potential, which may be difficult for beginners to control. It's better suited for intermediate to advanced bowlers who have developed a consistent release. Beginners should consider an entry-level ball like the Brunswick Rhino or Roto Grip Hustle series first.

What is the RG and differential of the Hammer Obsession Tour?

The Hammer Obsession Tour has an RG of 2.46 and a differential of 0.034, with an intermediate differential of 0.013. The lower RG means it revs up earlier, creating an earlier roll in the midlane. The lower differential keeps the ball motion smooth and controlled.

How much does the Hammer Obsession Tour cost?

The Hammer Obsession Tour is priced at varies by retailer. 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 Obsession Tour?

The Hammer Obsession Tour is best suited for bowlers who want maximum flare potential and angular ball motion. With its reactive solid coverstock on medium-heavy conditions, it works well for medium to high rev rate players who need a ball that can handle oil and still make a strong move on the backend.

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Hammer Obsession Tour Review

Performance Analysis

Performance Analysis