- Rebel Solid

First Impressions
The Hammer Rebel Solid, released in November 2016, positions itself as a strong symmetrical option in the mid price range. Visually, the ball comes in a striking navy and orange combination that looks especially rich thanks to the matte finish. Inside works the Rebel Core, originally developed to offer more dynamics than typical mid-range cores. With a low 2.48 RG and a solid 0.044 differential (at 15 lbs), this core provides an early revving action and decent flare potential. It is wrapped in the NBT Solid coverstock (Next Big Thing), which comes with a 500/2000 Abralon finish out of the box. This combination of low RG and rough surface promises very early read of the lane and a strong connection to the oil.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Hammer Rebel (Pearl), the difference is night and day: while the Pearl offers plenty of length and an angular reaction, the Solid reads the lane immediately and provides a smooth, continuous arc. Compared to a market leader like the Storm Phaze II, both balls operate in a similar niche (symmetrical solid with low RG). The Rebel Solid, however, often comes across a touch gentler in the backend and doesn't dig through the deepest oil quite as aggressively as the Phaze II, which often makes it more usable on slightly lighter house patterns. Against the Ebonite Game Breaker 2, the Rebel Solid offers more overall motion and covers more boards thanks to its higher differential, while retaining the legendary control of this class of ball.
On the Lanes
The Rebel Solid is a classic benchmark ball for medium to heavy oil. It's the first choice for reading the conditions on a fresh oil pattern, since it doesn't overreact (isn't "jumpy") and controls the pocket reliably. Its strength lies in the midlane: it builds massive rotation there, which keeps it from skidding out even with higher oil volumes. If you struggle with over/under reactions, the Rebel Solid noticeably smooths out the transition. It does need oil in the front part of the lane, though; on dry lanes it loses energy too quickly, which hurts carry.