Just recently bought a Raven and I can't wait to drill it up. This will be my first time deviating from the main companies, as I've heard some pretty good things about Visionary.
Because it's not affiliated with the Big B, Storm, or Ebonite, there's not a lot of coverage on this brand, or any small brand like Seismic or Lane Masters. I was wondering how the Raven would compare to anything out there today.

I'm also curious about the nature of particle covers. The only ones that I know being used are Storm's NRG and Roto's Microbite. Any reason why they aren't being used commonly now, or if they are, why not say they are particle covers? What separates particle covers from very strong reactive covers? And what can I expect to see out of a particle Pearl like the Raven?

My pin-up Raven is a year and a half old and is still my favorite and most versatile ball in my bag. I've probably swapped a dozen balls into and out of my bag in that time but the pin up Raven stays put. I have it at 1000 w/polish so it is a bit allergic to oil, but OOB can handle much more. I also have a pin down Raven but it is much more condition sensitive to me so it doesn't get as much usage.
What I like best about this ball is how it goes through the pins. I carry so many shots that other balls wouldn't, especially half-pocket can-opener type shots.