- Rattler NU

First Impressions
The Radical Rattler NU comes in a striking teal color and marks a significant step forward within the Rattler family in June 2024. As the second ball to feature the revolutionary Not Urethane (NU) technology, it combines the proven symmetrical Rattler core with an RG of 2.480 and a differential of 0.035 in 15-pound balls. What sets it apart is the NU coverstock chemistry, which should allow a urethane-like ball motion without bringing along the typical drawbacks of classic urethane balls. The factory surface of 500/1000 SiaAir Micro Pad gives the ball a particularly coarse texture that creates intense friction already in the heads. The construction is rounded out by Brunswick's DynamiCore technology in the outer core, which should increase durability and reduce compression at impact. With a flare potential of 3-4 inches, the Rattler NU sits in the mid performance segment and is recommended by Radical for medium oil conditions.
Comparison The Rattler NU differs clearly from its predecessor, the original Rattler from Radical, which was equipped with the S.H.A.R.P. Solid Reactive coverstock. While both balls use the identical symmetrical core, the NU coverstock formulation brings an entirely different reaction character with it. The NU technology was previously used in the NU Blue Hammer from Hammer, with the Rattler NU said to offer stronger overall performance. The ball provides more length and a more defined backend reaction than traditional urethane balls, yet stays more controlled and more predictable than aggressive reactive resin balls. Compared to the Deadly Rattler from Radical, which uses the HK22 Pearl coverstock, the Rattler NU shows an earlier and smoother reaction with less angle off the backend. The Rattler Big Bite from Radical, equipped with the S.H.A.R.P. Hybrid cover, positions itself as the stronger alternative with an earlier hook phase. Within the Radical lineup, the Rattler NU fills an important gap between pure urethane and aggressive reactive balls, similar to the role of the NU Blue Hammer from Hammer, though with somewhat more overall strength and hook potential.
On the Lanes The Rattler NU is primarily designed for medium oil conditions and shows its strengths especially on sport patterns like Stone Street and PBA Viper. The coarse factory surface of 500/1000 SiaAir allows the ball to read the lane early and should deliver a strong roll that produces consistent drive through the pin deck. The combination of the low 2.480 RG and the 0.035 differential makes the ball an ideal benchmark option if you value control and predictability. It should play to its strengths particularly on over/under conditions, when classic urethane balls hook too early or aggressive reactive balls react too unpredictably. The continuous ball motion lets bowlers keep the angles in front of them and make precise adjustments. Tweeners with medium speed and a moderate rev rate benefit especially from the balance between length and backend reaction that the ball is meant to provide. If you're looking for an alternative to classic urethane, or bowl in leagues and tournaments where urethane balls are restricted, the Rattler NU is an interesting option. The DynamiCore technology should additionally provide improved pin carry. The ball works both on house shots and on more demanding sport patterns, though surface adjustment depending on the lane conditions is likely to play an important role. With its controlled and smooth reaction, the Rattler NU positions itself as a reliable tool if you place value on consistency and precision without having to give up too much hook potential.