- Hellcat

First Impressions
The DV8 Hellcat marks an aggressive return of the popular Hell Raiser core series and comes in a dark color combination of Black, Lime and Purple. At its center works the asymmetric Hell Raiser D.O.T. core, which at 15 lbs shows a 2.537 RG, a 0.053 differential and a 0.016 intermediate differential. These numbers promise strong torque and plenty of flare potential. This engine is wrapped in the Havoc Solid Reactive coverstock. Especially important is the extremely coarse factory surface: with a 500, 2000 Siaair Micro Pad finish, the ball is clearly built to dig through heavy oil. On top of that, the Hellcat features Durability Optimization Technology (DOT), which not only increases durability but also makes drilling options more flexible, since the pin does not necessarily have to sit in a specific spot.
Comparison
Compared directly to the DV8 Hell Raiser Blaze, which also used this core, the Hellcat gets going noticeably earlier and stronger in overall hook. While the Blaze, as a hybrid, offered a bit more length and reacted more quickly to friction, the Hellcat reads the lane considerably earlier and smooths out the reaction. It comes across as less jumpy at the breakpoint and provides more stability in oil. Looking across the market, the Hellcat lands in a similar category as the 900 Global Reality. Both are asymmetric "snow tires" for heavy oil, though the Hellcat often shows a touch more bite off the backend than the extremely early-rolling Reality. Compared to the Storm Nova, the Hellcat appears somewhat rounder and more continuous, while the Nova often shows a more defined, sharper move at the end of the pattern.
On the Lanes
The DV8 Hellcat is a specialist for heavy oil and long oil patterns. It's the first choice when you're playing on a "flood" of oil and looking for traction. Its coarse surface lets it cut through the heads without going into skid and build up massive energy in the midlane. It works excellently if you throw the ball fast and often have trouble with your balls skidding too far. On fresh, demanding sport patterns it also provides the security needed to control the pocket. As soon as the lane dries up or the heads lose oil, however, the Hellcat will give up energy too early and lose its punch (carry problems); at that moment you should switch to a polished ball or a weaker hybrid.