57 Hook   14.5 Length   16 Breakpoint Shape

Core Design: The Nucleus II asymmetric core delivers a medium RG rating of 2.54. The 5” flaring Diff of .047 has an intermediate mass bias of .021. This is one fast-revving powerhouse of a core. The first three Cells’ core numbers are 2.52 RG, .056 Diff and .018 mass bias.

Coverstock: The colorful red, black and yellow solid reactive coverstock is made from a Cytoplasmic base. It incorporates a special additive to increase its overall friction with the lane. This Cytoplasmic XL cover is sanded with 2000 Abralon. Response time is quick off friction and very good in oil.

Manufacturer’s Intent: “With the mass strategically removed around the core’s axis, we increased the mass bias strength,” says Hank Boomershine. “This translates into quicker rev motion and increased motion potential downlane. Also, the second-generation Cytoplasmic XL reactive cover has a higher RA value, which enhances its friction with the lane surface.”

Test Results: The previous three Cells all have their own unique ball motion characteristics. The Mutant Cell follows this mantra. We saw more back-end hook potential when compared to the original Cell Solid and Cell Rogue. We also saw more total hook, especially through oil carrydown. When matched up against a Pearl Cell with a similar layout, the Mutant was an average five boards stronger, a foot and a half sooner and possessed a similar angular breakpoint shape. This could be the best Cell to date due to its total hook, breakpoint motion and ability to overcome carrydown.

When to Use: The Mutant will be a good choice on longer and heavier volumes of oil thanks to its strong reactive cover and powerful core design, an environment which yielded our best carry percentage. Polish the surface to reduce its friction in oil and increase its response off friction. Most of my testers preferred the Mutant with a dull finish. We were able to open up the lane with stronger layouts of 3.5 to 5” pins and mass bias distances of 4.5 to 6”. When squaring up, we liked longer pins near 6” and positioned below the fingers.

-- Joe Cerar Jr.