Think "Baby Reality." For me the HB Intensity offers similar strength to the Reality. The only difference is where that strength is on the lane. The Reality is early and forward where the HB Intensity clears the fronts better and retains more energy downlane. The HB comes out of the box really dull. I encourage you to let it lane shine before making a determination if you like it or not. I was surprised at how much better it rolled when I got 10-15 games on the cover. I bowl in a center that hooks quite a bit so I went in the shop and hit it with a 4000 pad on the ball spinner. It really came alive downlane after doing this. I think for players who want strength but may not be able to throw the stronger balls or afford them, the HB Intensity is a much better option!

https://youtu.be/RJd-imPr0Z4

I bowl in a center that hooks quite a bit so I went in the shop and hit it with a 4000 pad on the ball spinner. It really came alive downlane after doing this.

Did the abralon pad you used new or worn?  While I agree factory surfaces are very hard to mimic and sometimes need to be adjusted to meet your needs.  I am unsure of the need to hit the ball with the same grit it came out of the box with.  Did this smooth the reaction down for you? Or, did this add more texture to the surface?

Personally, I think this ball looks strong because of your layout!

20x5x40 is a strong flaring layout for the backend. I don't know the volume you were throwing it on, but I would have gone more like 45x3x50.

This cover is strong and dusty. I'd have drilled it much weaker because of that shell.

Just my take on it!