- Freakshow

First Impressions
The DV8 Freakshow shows up in a striking Blue and Silver Pearl color scheme. The heart of this model is the symmetric Freakshow core, which carries a 2.481 RG and a moderate 0.030 differential. The cover is the Class 6 Reactive Pearl coverstock, which shines out of the box with a 500 Siaair and Royal Compound finish. The low RG gets the core revving up very quickly, but the smooth cover should keep the ball gliding effortlessly through the heads. The design is primarily focused on delivering a clean motion with a surprisingly sharp reaction at the breakpoint.
Comparison
Compared to the DV8 Vandal Smash, the Freakshow grabs noticeably later thanks to its pearl surface and offers zero traction in the early part of the lane. Against a symmetric pearl ball like the Storm Hy-Road Pearl, the Freakshow's quick-revving core produces a somewhat more flowing yet still pronounced hook. Once the transition sets in and more friction develops, the Freakshow is in its element. It preserves its energy exceptionally well on dry boards and delivers a sharp motion in the backend.
On the Lanes
The DV8 Freakshow was built for dried-up to medium lane conditions. It lets you play steep angles across the boards on heavily played patterns without the ball burning up prematurely. The quick-revving core should keep enough backend reaction in the ball to produce excellent carry and drive reliably into the pocket. On extremely heavy oil patterns, though, the polished surface simply lacks the bite.