QUOTE(Lefty44 @ Oct 8 2007, 11:35 AM)

QUOTE
5-1/4 Status of an ‘X-out’ Ball
Q. ‘ X-out’ is the common name used for a golf ball which a manufacturer considers to be imperfect and has, therefore, crossed out the brand name on the golf ball. What is the status of an ‘X-out’ ball?
A. The vast majority of ‘X-out’ balls are rejected for aesthetic reasons only, i.e., paint or printing errors. In the absence of strong evidence to suggest that an ‘X-out’ ball does not conform to the Rules, it is permissible for such a ball to be used. However, in a competition where the Committee has adopted the condition that the ball the player uses must be named on the List of Conforming Golf Balls (see Note to Rule 5-1), an ‘X-out’ ball may not be used, even if the ball in question (without the X’s) does appear on the List.
Well, there it is. The Florida State Golf Association has never allowed X-outs or practice balls because they go strictly off the USGA conforming ball list.
There were two different times I had to get on OK to use a specific ball. When the Maxfli A10 came out years ago, I had some prototypes that had just been put on the list. Same thing with the HX Tour 56 a couple of years ago. They weren't in stores, but were on the USGA list.
If in doubt, check with a tournament official.