First Impressions
The DV8 Deviant Pearl comes in a high-contrast color combination of Silver and Light Blue. At its center works the symmetrical Deviant Medium RG core, which carries a 2.562 RG and a 0.050 differential. This core is wrapped in the Composite Pearl coverstock, polished to a high gloss out of the box with a 500 Siaair Micro Pad followed by Crown Factory Compound. The higher RG combined with the smooth cover should let the ball glide through the heads with extreme ease while storing a maximum of rotational energy. The design is focused on combining a very clean motion through the front part of the lane with a sharp reaction at the breakpoint.
Comparison
Compared to the original DV8 Deviant, which is equipped with a solid cover, the Deviant Pearl delivers noticeably more length down the boards and reacts considerably more aggressively at the end of the oil pattern. Set against a symmetrical benchmark ball like the Storm IQ Tour Pearl, the Deviant Pearl generates a markedly stronger hook thanks to its higher differential. Once the transition sets in and the front part of the lane dries up, the Deviant Pearl benefits from its pearl cover, since it responds to friction less early than matte balls and therefore carries its energy more efficiently to the pocket.
On the Lanes
The DV8 Deviant Pearl finds its preferred territory on medium to dried-up lane conditions. It is the logical choice if you have to keep moving further inside after the oil pattern breaks down and need a ball that skids through the dry heads without trouble. The late but pronounced hook helps in playing steep angles while still generating enough power for optimal carry. On heavily oiled lanes or very long patterns, however, the polished surface lacks the necessary traction, so the ball runs the risk of missing the breakpoint reaction and hitting the pins too flat.