Columbia 300
Benchmark
PatternStTwCr
Oily:788
Medium:999.5
Dry:776
Sport:888

(1-10 in order of Stroker (ST), Tweener (TW), Cranker (CR))

Coverstock Info
Name:
New Standard Reactive Hybrid
Type:
Reactive Hybrid
Box Finish:
800 Abranet / 1000 / 2000 / 4000 Abralon
Color:
Purple / Silver / Orange / Plum
Core Info
Name:
Tri-Rib
Type:Symmetrical
RG:2.51
Total Diff:0.052
Int. Diff:NA

The Columbia 300 Benchmark takes the proven core of the Power Swing and surrounds it with the first marketed Columbia 300 hybrid reactive cover. The cover is three parts solid to one part pearl, giving the Benchmark added length over a traditional fully solid cover, but a smoother downlane motion than a purely pearl veneer. This ball at the box finish matched up with nearly everything we threw it on.

The best reaction the testers had was on the medium test pattern. The Benchmark glides through the front of the lane and starts using its energy in the midlane. The ball has enough hook downlane to avoid flat hits in the pocket, but is far from an angular...

To read the full review, please visit:
https://www.bowlingthismonth.com/bowling-ball-review/columbia-300-benchmark/

Performance Ratings

NameValueComments
Torque
(1-10)
5.5
This cover and core combination uses its energy in the middle section of the lane. This ball is smooth and predictable.
Length
(1-25)
12
This new coverstock gives this ball enough bite for oily lanes and just enough skid on drier lanes. This is right up there with the Ransom Demand in terms of versatility.
Back End
(1-20)
15
As expected from a ball with a medium RG and hybrid coverstock, the back end on the Benchmark is a controlled motion. If you’re looking for more angle, look into the Eruption.
Total Hook
(1-100)
49
The Benchmark will be a fine choice for bowlers to start with. This ball should be right in the middle of Columbia 300’s lineup in relation to overall hook.

Strengths: The strength is in its name. The Benchmark lives up to its calling as a ball that combines power and predictability.

Weaknesses: The only conditions that will keep the Benchmark from being thrown are a flood of oil or not oiling the lanes every day. Surface changes can be made to help with these patterns, but there are better ball options.

Overall Summary: The Benchmark will be the ball for Columbia 300 fans to start with. If you want to see more hook, pick up an Encounter or Ransom Demand. If you need a little less, try an Eruption or Freeze.