DV8 Notorious Review

Performance Analysis

The Notorious is an interesting build on paper because the core and cover pull in slightly different directions, and the result is more refined than the name suggests. The Antagonist asymmetric core combines a low 2.47 RG with a moderate .047 differential and a healthy .018 intermediate differential. Translated: early rev-up, balanced rather than maximum flare, and a defined asymmetric breakpoint. The Composite Fang Hybrid cover at a 3000 grit box finish leans cleaner than most heavy-oil solids, so the ball gets through the fronts respectably before the core takes over.

The ratings tell the same story. Hook potential is 8 and pin action is 8, but length is 6: the low RG and hybrid traction still make this an oil-first ball even with the smoother 3000 finish. The .018 intermediate differential is the character trait worth noticing, because it is what gives the Notorious its angular shape downlane rather than a long, lazy arc. DV8’s release footage leads with exactly that hook-and-hit identity, and the spec sheet backs it up.

At a 7 for versatility, this is a medium-heavy oil piece by design. The moderate differential keeps the flare from becoming uncontrollable, which makes it slightly more usable across conditions than a full-blown .055-plus asymmetric, but the cons are honest: on lighter patterns it will read early and spend its energy before the pins.

Who Is This Ball For?

Higher-rev players who want asymmetric angle on medium-heavy oil get the best version of this ball. The combination of early roll from the 2.47 RG and a defined breakpoint from the intermediate differential rewards bowlers who can project the ball to the right and trust it to come back, which is why the bestFor list points at tournament players who need strong backend motion. Experienced league bowlers who see fresh oil weekly can run it as the top ball in a three-ball bag and step down as the lanes transition.

Skip it if your conditions run light or your rev rate is modest; an 8-hook asymmetric on dry lanes is a recipe for over/under reaction, and the cons flag exactly that risk. Availability is the other factor: the Notorious is out of production, so per the verdict this is a used-market pickup rather than a pro shop order. If you find one priced right and you have the oil to feed it, the design still holds up as a strong, angular medium-heavy weapon.