Battle of the Jackals: Is the Onyx the King?

Motiv Jackal Onyx Review

Motiv's heavy oil nuclear option. Maximum traction on flooded lanes from the Predator V2 core at $214.95. Video reviews inside.

By BowlingBallVideos.com Staff Tested Jan 15, 2025 7 videos analyzed 20 verified bowler reviews
8.8
Overall
Great Score
Weight
12-16 lbs
Coverstock
Solid
Core
Asymmetric
Hook
High
Price
$214.95

Performance Analysis

Performance Analysis

Independent testing revealed the Motiv Jackal Onyx to be a consistently strong performer on house shot conditions, delivering reliable strike action throughout extended play. Testers threw multiple full games with the ball on standard house oil patterns and observed numerous strikes with solid pin carry. The ball demonstrated manageable backend motion—not overly aggressive, but responsive enough to handle typical lane conditions. When fresh surface was applied, the Jackal Onyx showed improved lane control and consistency compared to higher-flaring asymmetric models, making it suitable for bowlers who want backend reaction without excessive early hook.

The testing also highlighted the ball’s versatility regarding surface adjustments. Testers noted that while fresh polish on similar high-flare asymmetrics can make them impractical for house play, the Jackal Onyx maintained workability even with minimal surface preparation. As oil accumulated on the coverstock during play, the ball’s motion evolved naturally without becoming uncontrollable. When compared directly to other strong asymmetric offerings, the Jackal Onyx occupied a middle ground—more aggressive than entry-level reactive solids but more manageable than the most extreme asymmetric designs currently available. Testers observed that on typical house conditions, the ball recovered well from less-than-perfect releases, demonstrating the kind of forgiveness that appeals to serious recreational and semi-competitive bowlers.

Who Is This Ball For?

The Jackal Onyx is ideally suited for bowlers who have moved beyond basic reactive solid balls and want reliable heavy oil performance without committing to extreme asym designs. House bowlers throwing 15+ games weekly will find this ball strikes consistently on standard oil patterns while remaining workable for adjustments—no need to switch to a weaker option until oil breaks down significantly. The ball also appeals to competitive bowlers building a varied arsenal: it fills the role of a strong asymmetric that doesn’t require polishing before league play and handles the transition from fresh to worn lane conditions reasonably well.

This ball is less ideal for pure house bowlers on tight budgets seeking one workhorse ball, or for bowlers specifically chasing the absolute longest skid and latest hook-point on the market. However, for the bowler willing to invest in quality equipment and wanting a predictable, manageable asymmetric that pairs well alongside other pieces in a complete bag, the Jackal Onyx delivers solid performance and value at its $214.95 price point.

Hook Potential
9.5
Length Through Heads
6.0
Back-End Continuity
9.0
Pin Action
9.5
Versatility
6.5
Value for Money
7.5

The Pros

  • Motiv's strongest ball — Predator V2 core is devastating
  • 1000 grit OOB for immediate heavy oil traction
  • Competes directly with Storm Ion Max and Hammer Zero Mercy

The Cons

  • Premium price at $214.95
  • Too aggressive for anything below heavy oil
  • Can burn up quickly as lanes transition

Who Is This Ball For?

Motiv's heavy oil nuclear option. Maximum traction on flooded lanes from the Predator V2 core at $214.95. Video reviews inside.

End of PatternCrankers

Technical Specifications

Core Details (Predator V2 Core)
RG (15 lbs) 2.47
Differential 0.055
Int. Differential 0.015
Coverstock Leverage HXC Reactive
Core Type Asymmetric
Factory Finish 1000 Grit
Color Black / Silver
Release Date January 2025

How It Compares

More Videos (6)

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Can I Bowl a 300 Game? | Motiv Jackal ONYX

The Hype
Who's Biggest and Baddest? | Motiv Jackal Onyx vs Storm Ion Max
12:22 Influencer

Who's Biggest and Baddest? | Motiv Jackal Onyx vs Storm Ion Max

The Hype
The Big Hook | Motiv Jackal Onyx | Deep Dive Ball Review
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The Big Hook | Motiv Jackal Onyx | Deep Dive Ball Review

Creating the Difference
Jackal Onyx | Ball Review ft AJ Johnson
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Jackal Onyx | Ball Review ft AJ Johnson

Motiv Bowling
Jackal Onyx | Playing Straighter
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Jackal Onyx | Playing Straighter

Motiv Bowling
Jackal Onyx | First Look
2:00 Official

Jackal Onyx | First Look

Motiv Bowling

Verified Bowler Reviews (60 reviews, 4.9/5 avg)

4.9out of 5

60 verified purchase reviews

97% of bowlers recommend this ball

Write a Review

Bowlers Say

Bowlers say the Jackal Onyx is extremely strong for heavy oil patterns with maximum hook potential and early traction. 2-handers particularly love its aggressive grip and consistent motion through pins. Bowlers praise its versatile use from fresh oil to tournament patterns and strong backend continuation.

AI summary of 60 verified purchase reviews

Bowlers frequently mention:

Shawn Aquino Dec 30, 2024

I heard. This ball is awesome on the lanes and I had to get it. This is my first Motiv ball to purchase and added it to my brand name bowling balls.

United States

Michael Landers Jan 6, 2025

Great ball for heavy oil patterns, hooks hard, feels good, and looks great. 2-Handed bowler.

United States

Bryan Velazquez Jan 8, 2025

Very strong ball. Extremely good for heavy patterns. I got mine drilled for 2 hands and it’s perfect

United States

Marvin Wimbush Jan 30, 2025

Big fan of Motiv products, especially the Jackal line. Jackal Onyx does not disappoint!

NJ, United States

Jeffrey Cass Feb 4, 2025

I really like this ball. I use it for when the lane is newly oiled, for about 1-2 games, at which point I switch to another ball. It's very aggressive, and as a tweener, I had the person drilling the ball make it slightly less aggressive for my style. I also have a Venom and a Sniper. Really liking Motiv balls.

Arkansas, United States

Showing 1–5 of 20 verified reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What oil condition is the Motiv Jackal Onyx best for?
The Motiv Jackal Onyx is designed for 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 Motiv Jackal Onyx good for beginners?
The Motiv Jackal Onyx 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 Motiv Jackal Onyx?
The Motiv Jackal Onyx has an RG of 2.47 and a differential of 0.055, with an intermediate differential of 0.015. 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 Motiv Jackal Onyx cost?
The Motiv Jackal Onyx is priced at $214.95. This is a premium price point reflecting its high-performance design and advanced core/coverstock technology. You can find it at BowlersMart.com with free shipping and 60-day returns.
What type of bowler should use the Motiv Jackal Onyx?
The Motiv Jackal Onyx is best suited for bowlers who want maximum flare potential and angular ball motion. With its reactive solid coverstock on 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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