I have had, what I would say "good" success with rattling. I NEVER rattle when I can see something though, I am too scared to screw it up!

I have found that I get better results, in open fields. I have a theory that deer do not like to come to rattling in the woods, because they cannot see very well. In the fields, they can see a ways, and feel more secure.

But, who really knows?