Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black Review

Name: Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black
Brand: Hammer
Rating: 4.9 (22 reviews)

While no longer in production, the Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black remains an excellent entry-level option for beginners on the used market. Its mild hook potential and predictable motion make it ideal for developing fundamentals without overwhelming new bowlers.

By BowlingBallVideos.com Staff Tested Apr 22, 2026 3 videos analyzed 22 verified bowler reviews

8.5

Overall

Great Score

Weight

10-16 lbs

Coverstock

Solid

Core

Symmetric

Hook

Low

Performance Analysis

The Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black features the symmetric Raw Hammer Core paired with the Juiced Solid Reactive coverstock, creating a ball designed specifically for entry-level bowlers. With a relatively high RG of 2.53 and low differential of .038, this ball provides excellent length and a controlled backend reaction that won’t surprise newer players. The 3000-grit factory finish allows the ball to read the lane smoothly on dry to medium oil conditions without being too aggressive. The flare potential of 3-4 inches provides just enough track migration to create modest hook while maintaining predictability. This combination makes it an ideal stepping stone for bowlers moving up from plastic balls who want to learn to play angles without dealing with excessive backend movement. While more advanced players will find the hook potential limiting, the Raw Hammer Solid’s forgiving nature and controllable motion make it perfect for its intended audience of novice bowlers looking to develop their skills on lighter oil patterns.

Who Is This Ball For?

Beginning bowlers transitioning from plastic
Bowlers on dry to medium-light oil
Players seeking predictable ball motion

Hook Potential

4.0

Length Through Heads

7.0

Back-End Continuity

5.0

Pin Action

6.0

Versatility

6.0

Value for Money

7.0

The Pros

• Excellent entry-level reactive ball for beginners
• Predictable and controllable motion
• Good length through the heads
• Affordable option on used market

The Cons

• Limited hook potential for advanced players
• Struggles on heavier oil conditions

Who Is This Ball For?

Beginning bowlers transitioning from plasticBowlers on dry to medium-light oilPlayers seeking predictable ball motion

Technical Specifications

Core Details (Hammer Raw Hammer Core Core)

RG (15 lbs) 2.53

Differential 0.038

Coverstock Hammer Juiced Solid Reactive

Core Type Symmetric

Factory Finish 3000 Grit

Color Black

Scent N/A

How It Compares

8.1

Verified Bowler Reviews (79 reviews, 4.9/5 avg)

4.9out of 5

79 verified purchase reviews

96% of bowlers recommend this ball

Write a Review

Bowlers Say

Bowlers praise the Raw Hammer Solid for its smooth, consistent reaction and excellent value at its price point. The ball performs well on medium to dry conditions with predictable backend motion, making it ideal as a benchmark ball or step-down option. Many appreciate its versatility across different lane conditions and skill levels.

AI summary of 79 verified purchase reviews

Bowlers frequently mention:

Jeff Sanders / pba024156 May 3, 2021

First off, when is the last time you have seen a black solid not roll well? You haven't - That doesn't happen. That said, Take the Juiced Cover - A Proven cover from many recent Hammer Releases and put it on the Old Raw Weight Block and then Introduce it in the Lower Mid Performance, Upper Entry Level Price Point - That's Crazy!! The Black Solid is So Smooth, It's has a nice arc and go through the pins with ease on hose patterns and drier / lower volume conditions.

Mike C May 14, 2021

As soon as this was announced I was so excited! Loved the Doom series and now throw an updated cover I’m all in! And I tell you this ball so don’t disappoint! This will rival any product in this price point! Huge performance for this price point! Great all around motion and strength!!

May 14, 2021

Here is my take on the new Hammer Raw Black Solid. The Hammer Raw Series comes in 4 models-1 solid, 1 hybrid and 2 pearls. This review will focus on the Raw Black Solid. This Raw features a medium RG/lower diff. symmetrical core wrapped by a Juiced Solid cover. The factory finish is 3000 Siaair. My “vitals” are a 405 rev rate with a PAP of 5 9/16 over and 1/8 up. I drilled mine with a standard 40 x 6 x 25 layout and have thrown it at box surface on THS and modified THS. The new Raw series adds a much needed drier lane option within the Hammer line of equipment. In terms of ball motion, the new Raw Black Solid reminds me of the Hammer Ruthless. Indeed they have the same coverstock and similar symmetrical core numbers. The Raw Black shows medium length down the lane with a smoother more gradual down lane motion. This piece is definitely best used on medium volume patterns and on patterns that are medium to shorter in length. Compared to the Pearl Raw, this puts the bowler several boards to the left. This is not a ball for heavier volumes of oil. However, this again gives the bowler a nice option in the Hammer line to get on top of the dry and not see early ball reaction. This ball might be particularly effective for certain THS where the bowler with stronger equipment is forced too far to the left. This may be an effective benchmark ball on some wet/dry patterns as well. See your local proshop for more on the new Raw series from Hammer.

Jkaseehammer May 29, 2021

I used a 65 x 4 1/4 x 25 layout, which put the pin above my ring finger. I’ve tried this ball on our house pattern, cheetah, and Atlanta oil patterns and the ball gives me a consistent and smooth reaction off the break point. I would say it’s about 3 boards weaker than my Web Tour. I have found this ball to be a great step down ball from my Obsession Tour and an amazing deal at the price point!

Mike R Jul 27, 2021

My Hammer Raw Solid is drilled 55 x 4.5 x 30 and this baby is a monster! I have yet to try this ball on a sport pattern, but this ball is now my first ball / go-to immediately on a house shot or league. I kept the surface as OOB and this ball allows me to keep my angles in front of me on a fresh house pattern! I can't wait to try this ball with some more surface and see more versatility.

United States

Showing 1–5 of 22 verified reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What oil condition is the Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black best for?

The Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black is designed for medium-light oil conditions. It features a reactive solid coverstock with a 3000 Grit finish, which gives it the length and control needed on lighter oil patterns where stronger balls would overreact.

Is the Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black good for beginners?

The Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black 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 Raw Hammer Solid Black?

The Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black has an RG of 2.53 and a differential of 0.038. The higher RG means it stores energy longer, pushing further down the lane before transitioning. The moderate differential provides a balanced combination of flare and predictability.

How much does the Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black cost?

The Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black 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 Raw Hammer Solid Black?

The Hammer Raw Hammer Solid Black is best suited for bowlers looking for a predictable, smooth ball motion. With its reactive solid coverstock on medium-light conditions, it works well for speed-dominant players and straighter bowlers who need control without over-hooking.