The Messenger PowerCOR Pearl uses the same weight block design as the Messenger PowerCOR Solid, with both balls featuring the Messenger PowerCOR nugget, an RG of 2.515″, and a total differential of 0.040″. The differences between the two balls are their box finishes and coverstock materials. While the Messenger Solid is a sanded solid, the Messenger Pearl uses the Reflex Pearl shell that comes out of the box finished with Crown Factory Compound. These changes increase the length and the response to the friction while providing less overall hook to create a one-two punch of complementary ball reaction. The Messenger Pearl was best in our testing when there was more hook available from the oil pattern and in transition when we needed a ball that could get farther down the lane before hooking.

Tweener’s best look to the pocket on the fresh was on the medium oil pattern with the Messenger Pearl at its box finish. As good as his reaction was with the Messenger Solid, it was hard for the Pearl to live up to those expectations. He really liked the complementary motion this ball offered compared to the Messenger Solid. He could start straighter through the front and straighter with his angles with the polished pearl cover. The ball hit as hard at the pins as the Messenger Solid, but he needed to be patient on this pattern and not try to get inside earlier than he needed to. The ball over-skidded when he moved left too early, but he had no such problem as the pattern dried out a little more. With the same surface as the Messenger Solid, the Pearl was still a bit longer and sharper, but his best option was to leave both balls with their factory surface preparations. Tweener saw more hook than he expected on the fresh dry pattern with the Messenger Pearl. He needed to start farther left with his feet than he thought he would and make...

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