- Gate

First Impressions
Released in March 2017, the Storm Gate is a significant model, since it was primarily an international release (especially popular in Asia) that quickly achieved worldwide cult status thanks to its enormous performance. The highlight of this ball is the introduction of the asymmetric Ignition core. At 15 pounds, this powerhouse delivers a low RG of 2.49, a high differential of 0.052 and an intermediate differential of 0.019. These numbers guarantee quick revving up and a strong change of direction. This innovative core is combined with the proven R3S Hybrid Reactive coverstock. Out of the box, the ball comes with a 1500-grit polished finish. Visually, the Gate often shows up in a classy combination of navy, platinum and gold. The technical concept aims to close the gap between extremely tacky solid balls and jumpy pearl balls by pairing the stability of a hybrid with the aggressiveness of a large asymmetric core.
Comparison Compared directly to the Storm Lock or Snap Lock, which use the RAD-X core, the Gate with its Ignition core offers a somewhat different character. While the Lock series is known for its extreme "snap" at the breakpoint, the Gate delivers a somewhat more continuous and "heavier" motion through the pin deck without giving up backend reaction. Compared with the Storm Code Red (also a hybrid with an asymmetric core), the Gate comes across as stronger overall and revs up a bit earlier. The Code Red (with the RAD4 core) is longer and more angular, while the Gate shows more midlane presence. Next to a symmetric hybrid like the Storm Hy-Road, the Gate offers a completely different caliber of total hook thanks to its massive asymmetry, and it is able to handle considerably more oil and play steeper angles.
On the Lanes The Storm Gate is an excellent choice for medium to heavier oil conditions. Its specialty is the transition phase, when pure solid balls (like an NRG Solid on a nano) start to burn up but pearl balls still react too sensitively to carrydown. The polished hybrid surface helps the ball get through the heads cleanly, while the strong Ignition core makes sure it doesn't "float" in the midlane but slows down reliably and turns toward the pocket. It works very well if you like to play the ball deep from the inside, because the core stores enough energy to clear the corner pins with phenomenal carry. The Gate is known for its exceptional "hit" in the pins, since it transfers energy very efficiently. On dry lanes, however, it is often too strong and hard to control.