- Gryphon Special Edition

First Impressions
The Visionary Gryphon Special Edition comes in a striking, high-contrast solid color blend. At the heart of this model beats the proven asymmetric Gryphon core, which shows a 2.520 RG and a strong 0.052 differential. The outer layer consists of a tacky solid reactive coverstock that is heavily sanded out of the box. This combination of the powerful core and the aggressive surface should make the ball travel very safely through the heads and deliver a very strong, controlled roll phase.
Comparison
Compared to the pearl versions in the Visionary line, the Gryphon Special Edition offers noticeably more early traction and a far more arcing reaction in heavy oil. Against the Storm Alpha Crux, the Gryphon delivers similarly massive midlane control, though with somewhat less asymmetric snap at the breakpoint. When friction on the lane increases and the transition dries up the front part of the lane, this ball reacts extremely reliably and holds onto its control. It needs wet oil in the heads.
On the Lanes
The Visionary Gryphon Special Edition is best suited to lane conditions with extreme oil volume. For strokers and tweeners it offers the chance to play direct lines on freshly oiled patterns, since the surface finds immense hold in the heads. The steady drive toward the pocket should deliver convincing carry, as the ball rolls extremely heavy through the pin deck. Once the lane dries up, however, the ball can hit flat. In those moments a smoother cover is the better call.