- Authority

First Impressions
The Columbia 300 Authority comes in an eye-catching black/lime/silver color scheme that stands out immediately thanks to its shiny pearl look. The ball uses the brand new asymmetric Authority Core with an RG of 2.513 (16 lbs), 2.503 (15 lbs) and 2.523 (14 lbs). The differential is 0.043 (16 lbs), 0.050 (15 lbs) and 0.050 (14 lbs), while the intermediate differential sits at 0.017 (16 lbs), 0.020 (15 lbs) and 0.020 (14 lbs). The cover is the ERT 2.0 Pearl Reactive coverstock, sanded at 500/1000 Siaair and polished with Crown Factory Compound. This surface prep should allow for longer length with a strong backend reaction.
Comparison
In terms of length the Authority shows nearly identical characteristics to the Storm Web MB with its Semtex Pearl cover, but it keeps its angularity through the transition, while the Web MB takes a more arcing path. Compared to the DV8 Intimidator Pearl with the Inciter cover, the Intimidator at factory finish sits between the Authority and the Web MB at their 3000 surface. Both the Authority and the Web MB lose the 3000 surface quickly after a game and turn highly polished, which can lead to excessive length, while the Intimidator holds its reaction over many games. For rev-dominant bowlers the Authority works as a stronger option than the Columbia 300 Dynamic Swing Pearl when playing deeper parts of the lane.
On the Lanes
The new asymmetric core should allow the Authority to change direction harder when it encounters friction. The ball is very clean and controlled, gets through the heads well and behaves predictably off the backend when it hits dry areas. The ERT 2.0 cover is particularly suited to shorter oil patterns, while a pin-down layout allows for earlier rotation with a strong finish and, with a little added surface, becomes usable right at the start of a block. The polished factory finish makes the Authority an ideal choice if you're looking for more length with a controlled backend reaction on medium oil volumes. The ball shows particular strengths on longer sport patterns, while on standard house shots it convinces with its predictability and its balanced ratio of length and hook.