Hammer
Taboo Deep Purple
PatternStTwCr
Oily:999.5
Medium:887
Dry:655
Sport:777

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

Coverstock Info
Name:
Grand Theft Reactive IV Pearl
Type:
Reactive Pearl
Box Finish:
800 Abranet / 1000 / 2000 / 2000 Abralon
Color:
Deep Purple
Core Info
Name:
NA
Type:Asymmetrical
RG:2.50
Total Diff:0.060
Int. Diff:0.016

Hammer told us the Jet Black was the last of the Taboo line, but then we were given these new Deep Purple Taboos. A selected few will have gotten to throw these early, as Hammer released a few as a “Made in the USA” version with no logos. The Deep Purple uses the same legendary Gas Mask core as the previous Taboos with a new pearlized coverstock.

The 2000 Abralon box finish matched up best with our heavy test pattern. Cranker had the best reaction and loved the traction the ball created in the midlane while...

To read the full review, please visit:
https://www.bowlingthismonth.com/bowling-ball-review/hammer-taboo-deep-purple/

Performance Ratings

NameValueComments
Torque
(1-10)
7
While it is not as angular as the Jet Black, the Deep Purple is strong at the breakpoint. The box finish does not allow this one to be as strong at the spot as the Jet Black.
Length
(1-25)
12
Even though this is a pearlized cover, it is still finished at 2000 Abralon. That is what keeps the length down. Raising the finish to a higher grit or polishing it will increase the length.
Back End
(1-20)
17
The back end is strong out of the Deep Purple. The rougher cover starts it up a little quicker and keeps the back end from being what it could at a higher finish.
Total Hook
(1-100)
54
The Deep Purple offers as much hook as any of the previous Taboos. The coverstock allows it to create traction in the oil, while keeping enough energy for a movement at the back end.

Strengths: The combination of a strong midlane and back end impressed us the most. There will be very few bowlers who will not be able to get this one to turn over down lane.

Weaknesses: Early friction will cause a less than desirable reaction for most bowlers. Polishing the cover will help for those stuck bowling on these type of conditions.

Overall Summary: Just when we thought we would not see another Taboo, out rolls the Deep Purple. This one combines the back end motion of the Jet Black with the midlane read of the Electric Blue.