Salomon Gun Lab and AK Rocket Lab Review
Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit the Salomon Oasis free demo tent at Heavenly. I decided to take the 188 Salomon Gun Lab and 195 AK Rocket Lab for a free ride.
Me: 5'10", 178#
My current quiver: 2006 188 Soft Bros w/ Freerides, 2005 188 Stiff Bros w/ Tyrolia Demos, 2004 188 Rossignol Scratch BC w/ Atomic 412.
The conditions at Heavenly: Mixed, including soft chalky winter snow on upper elevation north facing slopes, firm to chopped snowcone on upper elevation slopes with other exposures, along with good crud, and a variety of corn at lower elevations.
Terrain: Steeps (Killebrew and Mott) Trees (Maggies, Hogsback, etc.) Bumps (Gunbarrel, Milky Way) and a few groomed cruisers.
After clicking out of my beloved soft Bros I entered the Salomon Tent to see if they had Gun Labs available. Yes. When I requested these skis I was looked upon as having mucho grande cajones. Hmmm. :rolleyes2
My first impression of the Gun Lab was that it had a damp feeling like my Scratch BCs. After a couple of runs I could tell that they were more stable, had a stiffer tail, and responded well to a little forward pressure and being rolled on edge. They seemed to be easier to turn with every run I made. Comfortable and confidence inspiring. A versatile ski that could be taken anywhere. The more I skied them the better I liked them. However, my two hours were up. I was about to leave when I noticed the AK Rockets, oh yeah, I've heard of these. Why not. At first glance they looked a bit massive. However, once I had them on, they turned easily, even short turns. My first impression was that they felt like bigger 4x4 flame Bigs with a more drastic swallow tail. These skis like to move. I didn't notice/feel the length. Quick, stable, one-way only. You wouldn't want to ski switch on these. A fun ride. Ideal for someone who would rather straightline a narrow chute than billygoat it. Comparing the two skis, I preferred the Gun Labs versatility. Both felt much better than previous Salomon skis I have tried (Pocket Rocket, X-Scream, Crossmax, 1S.) If someone gave me $1200 and told me I had to buy a Salomon, I'd be happy with the Gun Labs. You spancered guys are very fortunate.
It did feel good to get back on my Bros for the rest of the day, so very light, quick, fun. They weren't even jealous, welcoming me back after my three-way. ;)
