- Grudge Pearl

First Impressions
The DV8 Grudge Pearl, released in November 2016, expands the feared Grudge series with a dynamic option for more length. Visually, the ball shows up in a striking tricolor mix of Black, White and Violet Pearl that catches the eye on the shelf as well as on the lane. At the center works the powerful Grudge Low RG Asymmetric Core, specified with a 2.49 RG and a massive 0.056 differential (at 15 lbs). This is rounded out by a 0.014 intermediate differential, which produces a defined asymmetry. The shell consists of the Composite Hook Pearl coverstock, finished out of the box with a 500 Siaair sanding followed by Crown Factory Compound polish. This combination of an aggressive core and a polished pearl surface promises easy skid through the heads along with explosive power in the backend.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original DV8 Grudge (Solid), which is known as a "snowplow" for the heaviest oil, the Grudge Pearl goes considerably longer and saves its energy for the back part of the lane. While the Solid and also the Grudge Hybrid read earlier and roll rounder, the Grudge Pearl creates a distinctly more angular skid/flip reaction. Compared to a Brunswick Mastermind Brainiac from the same house, the Grudge Pearl often shows an even more aggressive change of direction, since the Composite Hook coverstock is technologically more advanced and responds to friction more quickly. Against a Storm Code Black, which came out at the same time, the Grudge Pearl offers similar length, but thanks to the lower RG core (2.49 vs 2.50) it often feels a touch more stable in the midlane before it turns.
On the Lanes
The Grudge Pearl is the ideal weapon for medium oil and lanes that are in transition. Its main area of use is when the "thick" solids (like the Grudge Solid) start to hook too early and lose energy. It allows you to move inside and throw the ball well out to the right (for right-handers), because it comes back reliably off the dry outside boards. It generates a steep entry angle that produces spectacular carry. On very heavy, long oil, however, it could be too skiddy (risk of over/under), while on extremely dry lanes it may react too aggressively. It is the perfect "ball down" to open up the pocket and create angle.