Layout: 5 x 3 1/2 x 3
Surface: Reacta Gloss
Rev Rate: 470 RPM

The new Harsh Reality Pearl brings back the Disturbance AI Core and is paired with the Reserve Blend 902 Pearl Coverstock.  The Pearl gives more length and a more angular backend compared to the Harsh Reality Solid.  Still ideal for heavier oil, the Harsh Reality Pearl will handle a wide array of oil patterns including house and sport.

For my higher rev rate, I need a lot of head oil for the Harsh Reality series to work well.  The Pearl still reads the front and midlane very strong even with its Reacta Gloss finish.  The Reserve Blend 902 Pearl coverstock is on the stronger side and can handle a lot of oil while still giving a nice back end finish.  My THS is 44ft in length but with lower volume so I can use it on the fresh due to the lower oil volume.  After game 1, it becomes a little harder to use due to the oil breakdown.  On PBA patterns, it is a different story.  Those all have significantly more oil volume so I can get much more use out of the HRP.  When my Harsh Reality Solid becomes too forward and slow down lane, I can go right to the pearl and continue to strike as it is cleaner through the front of the lane.  This ball fills a hole in the 900 Global lineup as we haven't seen an asymmetrical pearl since the Altered Reality.   

If you are a bowler with a lower rev rate but need a cleaner but strong coverstock, I would go with this ball.  Heavier oil patterns also make this ball shine as well.  The strength of this ball can make it useful for the fresh depending on the conditions.   Taking the reacta gloss off the coverstock, will make this ball earlier and slightly smoother.  If you use the Harsh reality Solid, this pearl will also be a great step down for game 2 or game 3 of league when you have to open the lanes up more.  A pin down layout for this ball will keep the ball on line a little longer making it potentially more useful on a wider variety of conditions.

Adam Chase
Storm Staff