48.5 Hook 15.5 Length 15.5 Breakpoint Shape
Manufacturer’s Intent: “The intent of the pearl Raptor Attack is to provide a ball that bowlers could switch to when the original Raptor P7 [August 2011] started to burn up a heavy oil pattern,” says Scott Wilbur of Motiv. “As the shot breaks down and the lanes transition to a medium-heavy shot, the Raptor Attack strikes with a vengeance. It utilizes the same Predator core as the original Raptor P7, but features a longer and cleaner pearl Atomix SFP Reactive shell to retain energy.”
Coverstock: The Atomix SPF pearlized reactive coverstock creates unbridled easy length due to its polished 2000 finish. The black and purple pearlized colors blend well with the Neo Marks engraved logo. This cover formula responds moderately quickly off friction areas, while its oil traction is limited. The Ra level comes in at 1.95 on average.
Core Design: The Predator asymmetric core boasts some very strong numbers. Its RG is low at 2.46, its .060 differential is at the USBC maximum, and the intermediate differential is .015. This design will allow you to easily alter the motion shape downlane, so choose your layout wisely. We saw nearly 6.5 inches of track flare with strong layouts and lower quadrant weight holes.
Test Results: The original Raptor P7 proved to be a great performer on heavier volumes when an angular breakpoint was warranted. The pearl Raptor Attack complements it perfectly. We saw about 2 feet of added length with three to four boards less hook off the breakpoint on similar oil patterns. Once a defined hook spot was developed, the Raptor Attack was in its element. We noticed that it struggled some through lighter carrydown for all but our high-rev tester. A simple fix was a light surface scuffing with a burgundy pad or similar. Our favorite THS layouts used pin distances between 4 and 5 inches, positioned above the fingers.
When to Use: The Raptor Attack will provide a great look on beaten-down THS or Sport patterns. In fact, the more friction, the better. Since the ball supplies very easy length, rev-dominant players also will enjoy its overall ease of use. Patterns with oil carrydown or those with heavier down-lane oil concentrations will be better served with the Raptor P7 for most styles. On Sport conditions, we preferred pin positions below the fingers to better control the motion when leaving the oil pattern.
