- Vandal Destroy

First Impressions
The DV8 Vandal Destroy was introduced in January 2017 as an aggressive follow-up within the popular Vandal line. Visually, the ball shows up in a dark solid color scheme of black and purple, which underscores its intent for heavier oil conditions. Inside works the proven Vandal Low RG Asymmetric Core, which in the 15-pound version delivers a very low RG of 2.488, a high differential of 0.054, and an intermediate differential of 0.011. These numbers are known for combining an early revving action with a backend move that is surprisingly strong for an asymmetric core. This core is wrapped in the Composite Hook Solid coverstock. The surface comes out of the box with a 500/4000 Siaair Micro Pad finish. This setup aims to generate enough traction in oil without burning up energy too early, and it offers a more versatile surface than extremely rough "snowplow" balls.
Comparison To place the Vandal Destroy correctly, the comparison to the original DV8 Vandal (Pearl) and the DV8 Pitbull is key. While the Pitbull (also January 2017) is designed as a pure monster for maximum oil volume and the earliest rotation, the Vandal Destroy offers more length through the heads and a noticeably more explosive reaction at the breakpoint. It plays "cleaner" than a Brunswick Mastermind Strategy, which features a similar solid asymmetric setup. Compared to the Storm Phaze II, which as a symmetrical solid ball shows a very round and even motion, the Vandal Destroy delivers a sharper angle into the pocket thanks to its asymmetric core. Next to the Roto Grip Haywire, the Vandal Destroy comes across as more dynamic on the backend; where the Haywire often feels a bit sluggish ("chuggy"), the Destroy holds its rotation better for the hit into the pins.
On the Lanes The DV8 Vandal Destroy is designed for medium to heavy oil conditions. Its particular strength lies in the ability to combine traction with angle. Many solid balls for heavy oil tend to roll very early and enter the pocket flat. The Vandal Destroy uses the 4000 finish and the Vandal core to avoid that effect: it reads the midlane reliably but retains the typical backend "pop" the series is known for. That makes it a perfect choice as the first ball out on a fresh league lane, when the Pitbull would be too much but a pearl ball is still too slick. It lets you play deeper angles, since the ball creates enough friction to come back from outside while also storing enough energy to maximize carry at impact.