- Vandal Strike

First Impressions
The DV8 Vandal Strike, released in October 2017, adds another aggressive pearl option to the very successful Vandal series. Visually, the ball comes in an appealing combination of black, copper and white. Inside works the proven Vandal Low RG Asymmetric Core, specified with a 2.499 RG, a very high 0.055 differential and a moderate 0.011 intermediate differential (at 15 lbs). These numbers give the core a quick rev-up and enormous flare potential. The core is wrapped in the Composite Flip Pearl coverstock, an aggressive chemical formulation developed for a delayed reaction and a quick change of direction. The factory finish of 500 Siaair with Crown Factory Compound gives the ball the shine it needs to get through the heads cleanly and sets it up for a violent reaction at the end of the oil pattern.
Comparison
In direct comparison to the DV8 Hitman, released at almost the same time, the Vandal Strike shows a shade more versatility. While the Hitman, with its higher intermediate differential, shows a more extreme skid-flip reaction and practically snaps off the corner, the Vandal Strike offers a slightly rounder but still very sharp arc thanks to its lower asymmetry value. That makes it feel more controllable when the breakpoint gets a bit soft. Compared to the original DV8 Vandal (Gold), the Strike delivers more overall hook and a quicker response to friction through the improved composite cover, without sacrificing the midlane stability that characterizes the Vandal series. Against a Storm Code Red, the Vandal Strike often looks a bit longer and more aggressive at the point where it changes direction, while the Code Red reads the lane slightly earlier.
On the Lanes
The Vandal Strike is an excellent choice for medium oil conditions and typical house shots, where there is a clear definition between oil and friction. Its strength lies in the transition phase: when dull balls or strong solids start to burn up energy too early and hit flat in the pocket, the Vandal Strike lets you move deeper and increase the angle. Thanks to the polished pearl cover it glides effortlessly over played-in heads and stores its rotational energy for an explosive impact into the pins. It is particularly suited to you if you like to "twist" the ball and travel a long way across the boards, but thanks to the versatile core it also offers enough safety at more moderate angles not to jump off the spot unpredictably.