- Power Gate

First Impressions
The Storm Power Gate presents itself as an aggressive ball for heavy oil conditions. Equipped with the GI-20 Hybrid Reactive cover, which offers noticeably more traction than the R2S and R3S versions of earlier Gate balls, the Power Gate is meant to provide maximum traction and hook power on the longest and heaviest oil patterns. The asymmetric Ignition Core shows a 2.49 inch RG, a total differential of 0.052 inches and an intermediate differential of 0.019 inches. The 3000-grit surface is based on a blend of one part solid and two parts pearl, which should help the ball avoid burning up early, retain energy and release its power evenly across the entire lane.
Comparison
Compared directly to the earlier Gate models with R2S and R3S covers, the Power Gate offers considerably more traction. The Ignition Core generates more than 6 inches of flare potential, which places it in the category of very aggressive asymmetric cores. While the Storm Nova with the same Ignition Core is already known for its strong midlane performance, the Power Gate goes a step further toward aggression thanks to its GI-20 Hybrid surface. Weight blocks like the Ignition Core rev up quickly and finish strong with a more aggressive move on the back half of the lane. Compared to other Storm Power variants such as the Storm Absolute Power, the Power Gate positions itself as the stronger ball for the most extreme oil conditions.
On the Lanes
The Power Gate is aimed primarily at advanced players who have to deal with very heavy oil patterns. Its construction makes it ideal for the longest and heaviest oil patterns. For power players who can generate high rev rates, the ball should deliver the aggression needed to still create enough hook even under extreme conditions. The 3000-grit surface offers a compromise between early reaction and backend power. The hybrid composition should help keep the ball from burning up too early and preserve its energy to the end of the lane. Less experienced bowlers, or those with lower ball speed, could find the Power Gate too aggressive. As an international ball it is approved for USBC league and tournament play, but possibly not for PBA competition.