- Jackpot Solid

First Impressions
The Radical Jackpot Solid, released in November 2016, adds a powerful, traction-oriented option to the popular "EZ-Use" series. Visually the ball comes in a plain but functional "Black / Dark Green Solid," and the matte finish (500 and 4000 Siaair Micro Pad) catches the eye immediately and signals traction. Technically, Radical uses the same symmetrical core with "Scoop Technology" here as in the original Jackpot. At 15 lbs this core carries an RG of 2.517 and a substantial differential of 0.056. A differential that high is rather unusual for symmetrical balls in this price range and promises very strong flare potential. The combination of a matte solid coverstock and this rev-happy core points to a noticeably earlier and rounder motion than its predecessor.
Comparison
Compared directly to the original Radical Jackpot (Pearl), which was known for its length and sharp backend reaction, the Jackpot Solid plays about 3 to 5 boards stronger and reads the lane considerably earlier. Where the pearl skids across the oil, the solid digs into the midlane and produces a smooth, continuous arc. Set against a market standard like the Storm Phaze II, the Jackpot Solid offers a similar "benchmark" character, though the slightly higher RG of the core often makes it a touch more controllable through the transition, while the Phaze II plows through the oil even more aggressively. Against a Radical Primo Solid, the Jackpot Solid is usually a bit earlier into its rotation and, thanks to Scoop Technology, offers more versatility in layouts for fine-tuning the reaction.
On the Lanes
The Jackpot Solid is made for medium to heavy oil and fresh house patterns. It works ideally as the first ball out of the bag (benchmark ball) for reading the lane, since it doesn't overreact and shows the transition gently. Its strength is in the middle of the lane: it generates massive rotation there and keeps the ball from sliding too far outside. Thanks to the 4000 finish, however, it isn't as extremely coarse as pure "snowplow" balls, which allows it to still store energy for the pocket. If your pearl balls give you trouble by reacting too jumpy (over/under), the Jackpot Solid provides the calm and the confidence you need to control your line.