Radical Rattler Big Bite Ball Review by Jeff Ussery

Layout: 60 degrees x 5 1/2" x 40 degrees

RG: 2.49"

Differential: .035"

M/b: n/a

Surface: 3000 Grit Sanded

Core shape: Symmetric

Manufacturer's Intent: The S.H.A.R.P. Hybrid is the next generation to the very popular S.H.A.R.P. cover used in the Incognito line. This new chemistry reflects the advancements our chemists have made in setting new levels in coverstock performance. We found that this new formula, combined with the very popular Rattler core, delivers a strong benchmark performance. Compared to the Deadly Rattler, you can expect a stronger mid-lane motion and more overall hook.

Radical Big Bite is the weakest core shape I've drilled up for the new season, and it definitely shows some differences on the lanes against the other balls I've put holes in recently. Big Bite is a follow up to the Deadly Rattler, and with the 3000-grit surface on the cover, Radical has increased mid-lane traction for this new piece. While offering more hook than Deadly Rattler, it's not necessarily more hook than most other Radical pieces. Even with the pin up drilling, I've found Rattler Big Bite to be on the longer side for a sanded ball, and definitely less backend motion than stronger pieces in the lineup.

My best look with the Big Bite has definitely been on the fresh lanes at Olathe Lanes East. It prefers to see some friction for my game, and once the lanes blend out and carry down, I find it difficult to get a lot of motion from it. But when the backends are clean, Ratter Big Bite smooths out the motion nicely. With the lower differential on this ball, customers may want to consider drilling this ball a little stronger than normal to make sure you do experience some track flare. Once any ball rolls on top of its own oil track repeatedly, it's tough to see reliable ball motion. With an .035" diff, Ratter Big Bite will likely prefer stronger layouts.

I did try a duller surface on the Big Bite to see what would happen. While improving mid-lane traction, it really didn't increase the hook very much, so I put it back at the 3000-grit factory finish. I haven't tried polishing this piece, as I simply don't need anything that weak right now in the bag for league.

Rattler Big Bite comes in a dark colored 2-tone finish with yellow logos. They're in stock in 14#-15# at Total Bowling Gear. Stop by and see us to learn more about it!