- Hell Raiser Blaze

First Impressions
The DV8 Hell Raiser Blaze comes in a striking orange/yellow/black look and was released on August 20, 2021. Technically, the ball is built on the asymmetric Hell Raiser DOT core already used in the Hell Raiser Return, combined with the Inciter Max Traction coverstock. At 15 pounds, the core numbers show a 2.537 RG, a 0.053 differential and an asymmetric bias of 0.016. The solid reactive cover comes out of the box with a very coarse 500/1000 SiaAir finish, which should provide immediate traction on the lane. The ball also features Durability Optimization Technology (DOT) as well as DynamiCore technology, which according to the manufacturer should deliver improved durability and stronger pin carry.
Comparison
The Hell Raiser Blaze positions itself as a sanded solid option to complement the longer-running Hell Raiser Return, but it uses the Inciter Max Traction cover already seen on the DV8 Damn Good Verge. Compared to the later DV8 Hellcat, the Blaze offers considerably more traction in oil, while the Hellcat reacts less aggressively and saves more energy for the backend. The reaction of the Hell Raiser Blaze proves to be exceptionally strong and smooth, and even on the heaviest oil conditions surface changes may still be needed to tame the aggressiveness. The combination of the asymmetric core and the coarse surface should deliver maximum flare potential and strong traction.
On the Lanes
The Hell Raiser Blaze is designed primarily for heavy oil conditions and should deliver strong hook. Strokers with lower rev rates in particular benefit from this ball, since the lower rev-rate style helps preserve energy while still providing enough hook for high oil volumes. DV8 markets the Hell Raiser Blaze as one of its strongest hooking balls with oil-destroying characteristics. The coarse factory finish makes the ball grab very early and suits players who need maximum control and friction on heavy oil patterns. Because of the extreme aggressiveness, on medium to lighter oil conditions you should consider surface adjustments or reach for less aggressive alternatives.