- Gauntlet Fury

First Impressions
The Hammer Gauntlet Fury, released in October 2017, brings an aggressive pearl option to Hammer's high-performance class. Visually, the ball immediately catches the eye with its mix of purple, smoke and orange. Technically it is built around the asymmetric Gauntlet Core, specified with a 2.50 RG, a 0.050 differential and a 0.012 intermediate differential (at 15 lbs). Those numbers point to an early-revving core with high flare potential. The real innovation, however, is in the cover: the Semtex Pearl CFI (Carbon Fiber Infused) coverstock not only provides the durability the brand is known for, but also increased energy transfer. The factory finish of 500/1000 Abralon with Powerhouse Factory Finish Polish gives the ball a strong shine that helps it get through the heads cleanly.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Hammer Gauntlet (solid), the Fury shows a drastic change in ball reaction. Where the original Gauntlet was known for reading the oil early and creating a smooth, arcing motion, the Fury offers considerably more length and a more explosive reaction to friction at the end of the pattern. Compared to the legendary Black Widow series (e.g. the Black Widow Gold), the Gauntlet Fury offers a somewhat more stable motion through the midlane, since the Gauntlet core is less prone to overreacting than the Gas Mask core, yet it still keeps a sharp entry angle. Against a competitor like the Storm Code Red, the Gauntlet Fury often shows a slightly heavier roll and less deflection at the pins thanks to the carbon fiber infusion when it hits the pocket a little off.
On the Lanes
The Gauntlet Fury is made for medium to heavier oil conditions where length still has to be generated. It is the ideal ball when you need to move from a dull solid (like the original Gauntlet or a Rip'D Solid) to something that stores more energy for the backend without giving up overall hook. Thanks to the polished surface it glides through played-in heads, but the strong asymmetric core makes sure the ball does not simply float through the oil. It allows you to play deep inside the boards and throw the ball well out to the outside, with the confidence that the CFI technology in the coverstock will produce a powerful change of direction and maximize carry.