The HCP is a great compliment to the original Hard Core.  The HCP even though it is particle gets down the lane very well.  It also creates quite a bit of angle on the backend for a particle coverstock.  I have thrown the HCP dull and shiny, there is a place in my arsenal for both surfaces.  People who are looking for a ball with a lot of versatility form heavy oil to medium oil will find the HCP performance a great value.

I haven't thrown the gear myself, but since I have seen several people throwing Circle stuff since they've agreed to sponsor the PBA Senior event at my local house. Anyhow, here goes:

Of the Circle balls that I've seen in action, the HCP is probably the most impressive. It revs up nice and quick, sort of like the polished Ultimate Inferno I used to have, but it retains a nice amount of energy to give some strong pop on the backend. In terms of overall movement, it reminds me a lot of my Real Deal (which I love). The ball digs in nicely and gives a strong but controllable move on the backend. The only caveat is that I don't really think the ball is meant for heavy oil. Unless you have zero speed, my assessment is that this ball will not handle anything more than medium heavy. For those conditions, however, it is a very impressive ball with a strong, predictable motion and very good carry. If you've been looking for a particle ball that still gives some movement on the back, this one may be just what you're looking for.
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I can't bowl 300, but I can bench 345 : )
 I provide the muscle for the Fellowship of the Saws