What is the String King Mark 2A Lacrosse Head?
The String King Mark 2A is one of the most popular lacrosse heads on the market today. First released in 2015, the Mark 2A quickly became a top choice for players at all levels due to its unique mix of performance, durability, and affordability.
String King designed the Mark 2A as an elite-level head with many of the same technologies found in their premium lineups. However, by utilizing innovative manufacturing techniques, they managed to offer it at a more budget-friendly price point compared to other top-tier heads.
Top Features and Benefits
Some of the standout features that make the Mark 2A such a versatile and effective head include:
- Strung with String King’s signature Type 3F mesh for excellent ball control and quick release
- Stiff Scoop and Midrail for added durability and improved ground ball pickup
- Strategic Flex Points allow for customized pocket placement and improved ball control
- Lightweight yet robust construction from high-grade materials
Stiffness and Flex Profile
The Mark 2A has a medium-high stiffness level overall, with strategic flex points along the sidewalls and scoop area. This creates a rigid feel for added ball control, while still allowing some customization of pocket placement.
The scoop itself retains its shape well and has minimal flex, making it ideal for scooping up ground balls. The lower sidewalls offer a bit more give to allow pocket formation, while the upper sidewalls remain stiff.
Shooting and Ball Control
With its light weight, balanced feel, and mid-high stiffness, the Mark 2A gives players excellent control over the ball in all facets of the game. The head provides crisp, accurate passes and shots with impressive ball velocity thanks to its quick release.
The scoop and midrail also retain their structure well on shots, contributing to the head’s consistently high performance even after prolonged use.
Face Shape and Scoop
The Mark 2A has a medium-wide face shape with a rounded contour along the entire head. This gives players enhanced visibility and field awareness for dodging defenders or looking for cutters.
The scoop itself has an elongated, tapered design. Combined with the head’s stiff scoop and minimal flex, this allows for very reliable ground ball pickup on low or high throws.
Ideal Stringing and Pocket Setups
The Mark 2A’s flex profile lends itself well to a variety of pocket styles to fit individual preference. A medium or semi-deep pocket typically maximizes hold and control with this head.
For middies, a mid-low pocket improves ground ball abilities. Attackmen may opt for a higher pocket for added whip on shots. The Mark 2A handles any pocket style well thanks to its custom flex points and sidewall design.
Durability and Weather Resistance
With its fused joints and robust construction, the Mark 2A maintains its structure and performance even after heavy usage. The head holds up well during rain or snow games thanks to materials designed to resist warping.
Many players report the Mark 2A lasting seasons before needing to be restrung or replaced. This durability makes it a great value at its affordable price point.
Weight
The Mark 2A has a balanced, lightweight feel at around 5 ounces strung. This minimizes fatigue for players during intense, back-and-forth games when every ounce counts.
Despite its light weight, the head still retains a rigid feel. String King optimized the design to remove unnecessary mass while maintaining stiffness.
Position Suitability
The Mark 2A is a great choice for players at any position. Attackmen will appreciate the accurate shot performance and hold. Middies benefit from the ground ball and face shape design.
Since String King designed it as a versatile high-performance head, any player style or position can maximize their abilities with the Mark 2A.
Value and Cost
With an MSRP around $80-$100, the Mark 2A costs significantly less than most elite heads which can run $150+. This makes it very appealing for players on a budget looking for high quality.
Due to its durability and well-rounded performance, it maintains value extremely well. The Mark 2A delivers professional caliber play at an affordable price point.
Style and Looks
The Mark 2A features a sleek, low-profile design available in a variety of colorways. The tapered scoop and curved sidewall contours give it an eye-catching style.
For players concerned with aesthetics, the Mark 2A has a modern, minimalist appeal compared to busier head designs. It’s sure to look great on the field in any color option.
Top Features and Benefits
The Mark 2A stands out from other heads thanks to several key features that improve its versatility, durability, and performance:
- Fusion Technology – String King’s innovative manufacturing process interlocks the top rail, sidewalls, and scoop together into a single, seamless piece. This enhances stiffness and weather resistance compared to traditional screw or glue assemblies.
- EnduraRail – The flared rail design retains its structure even after heavy abuse. It provides a rigid shooting platform while protecting the scoop and sidewalls from checks.
- Ergonomic Scoop – The scoop boasts an elongated, tapered shape optimized for quick ground ball pickup. Its angular profile also enhances stiffness.
- Strategic Flex Points – Calculated flex zones in the sidewalls allow pocket customization while retaining a rigid overall feel.
- workout Weight – By leveraging advanced polymers and manufacturing techniques, the head offers exceptional strength at only 5 ounces strung.
Together, these technologies give players an unparalleled blend of ball control, shooting performance, and durability that competes with heads costing much more. The Mark 2A delivers pro-level play at an affordable price point.
Stiffness and Flex Profile
One of the Mark 2A’s defining characteristics is its optimized stiffness profile that enhances ball control and pocket placement.
The overall head has a medium-high stiffness level, with the scoop and sidewalls retaining maximum rigidity. String King strategically mapped the flex points to key areas like the throat and lower sidewall to allow some customized pocket formation.
This profile keeps the ball firmly in the pocket, even on errant passes. The rigid scoop also provides impressive ball velocity on passes and shots. Players notice crisp, accurate performance regardless of weather conditions or use.
Despite the stiffness, the head still has a well-balanced feel and flex. The throat area allows just enough give for comfort, without compromising ball control. For a high-end head costing much less, the Mark 2A’s flex profile is exceptional.
Shooting and Ball Control
The Mark 2A really shines when it comes to shooting and overall ball control.
Its lightweight yet rigid construction gives players impressive command over the ball. The head moves fluidly to cradle and adjust angles on the fly. However, it snaps back instantly when passing or shooting thanks to the fused joints.
Shots feel crisp and accurate with the Mark 2A. The ball releases cleanly off the pocket, even in wet or muddy conditions. Many midfielders notice their outside shooting becoming more consistent after switching to this head.
On catches, the head gives just enough to absorb impact, while retaining the ball securely. Combined with the hold of a mid-deep pocket, players gain confidence going into traffic for tough catches.
For a head south of $100, the Mark 2A’s shooting, passing, and ball control competes with elite heads costing far more. It’s an easy choice for players focused on elevating their offensive game.
Face Shape and Scoop
The Mark 2A utilizes an elongated head shape with rounded contours optimized for field vision and ball control.
The head length falls in the medium-wide range at 6 inches. This gives players a balanced sweet spot for crisp passing and shooting, without sacrificing handling.
Since the sidewalls curve smoothly outward, midfielders gain a wider field of view for spotting cutters or oncoming defenders. The rounded edges also let attackers subtly adjust angles on the crease.
The scoop itself tapers to a narrow point. Combined with the fused plastic construction, it penetrates turf easily for quick ground ball pickup. The scoop’s angular shape also retains its structure better than curved designs.
For players needing to command the field or own ground balls, the Mark 2A’s face shape and scoop deliver an advantage in any situation.
Ideal Stringing and Pocket Setups
One benefit of the Mark 2A is its ability to accommodate several pocket configurations well.
The head’s mid-high stiffness gives stringers flexibility while retaining a rigid feel. As a result, players can customize pocket placement based on position or preference.
For middies focused on transition play, a mid-low pocket improves ball retention on pokes and outlet passes. The low pocket and curved sidewalls also increase ground ball abilities.
Attackmen may opt for a mid-high pocket placement to add some extra hold and whip for ripping shots on the crease. The head’s quick release still provides accuracy.
Regardless of stringing, the Mark 2A’s well-designed flex points and EnduraRail allow great pocket function. Stiff sidewalls também prevent premature bagging. Any style Works well thanks to String King’s engineering.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Players consistently praise the Mark 2A for its durability and reliability in all conditions.
The head holds up well over time thanks to StringKing’s proprietary Fusion manufacturing process. Instead of screws or epoxies, joints get directly fused together for seamless construction.
This integral bonding prevents the notorious loosening or rattling that can plague heads over time. The rigid scoop and EnduraRail also resist warping from checks.
In rainy games, the head retains its crispness and shape despite moisture absorption. The materials resist swelling or bagging out. Snow games pose no problems either thanks to the weatherized polymers.
For those wanting a head that withstands abuse and performs consistently, regardless of weather, the Mark 2A delivers lasting quality and playability.
Weight
One of the Mark 2A’s standout qualities is its lightweight yet robust construction.
The engineers optimized the design to remove any unnecessary mass from the head. Advanced polymers and manufacturing techniques let them trim excess material without sacrificing stiffness.
As a result, the head tips the scales at only 5 ounces strung. This reduced weight makes a noticeable difference during intense games and repetitive drills.
Despite being so lightweight, the head still retains a rigid, supportive feel. There’s no flimsy or hollow sensations thanks to the calculated material distribution and fusion process.
For players concerned about fatigue or speed, the Mark 2A delivers high-end performance in an easy-handling lightweight package.
Position Suitability
One benefit of the Mark 2A is how well it suits players at every position.
For attackmen, the head’s light weight and quick release improve dodging speed around the crease. The rigid scoop also makes sinking low skips easier.
Middies appreciate the ground ball and face shape design that aids in transition play. The weatherproof materials retain ball control even in rough conditions.
FOGOs can utilize the Mark 2A for facing off or offensive sets after draws. Its versatility shines in scrappy situations.
Since StringKing designed the head to balance precision with durability, any player style or position can gain an edge with the Mark 2A.
Value and Cost
Considering its quality and performance, the Mark 2A provides exceptional value in the current lacrosse head market.
With an MSRP of $80-$100, it costs noticeably less than most elite-level heads which can run $140 and up. Yet the Mark 2A competes directly with those heads in terms of features and playability.
The head also retains its value well over time. Thanks to the durable Fusion construction, it maintains its “out-of-the-box” feel longer than most heads.
For players seeking the best balance of cost and performance, the Mark 2A delivers pro-caliber play at an affordable price point. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular heads out there.
Style and Looks
In addition to performance, the Mark 2A also impresses with its sleek, minimalist styling.
The head features a low-profile design with smoothly contoured sidewalls. This gives it a more streamlined, integrated look compared to boxier heads.
By tapering the scoop and minimizing protrusions, StringKing created a head with cleaner lines and less visual clutter. It forgoes intricategeometric cutouts in favor of an understated modern aesthetic.
The Mark 2A also comes in a variety of eye-catching colorways to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer flashy neon accents or a subdued matte finish, the styling looks great on the field.
For players who value aesthetics along with playability, the Mark 2A delivers on both fronts. Its sleek styling matches its elite-level performance.
Sizing Guide
The Mark 2A comes in a range of sizes to accommodate players of different ages and positions.
For youth players, the head is available in junior sizes down to a 10″ model. The smaller size is optimized for younger middies and attackers still developing stick skills.
In men’s sizes, it ranges from 10″ up to the maximum legal size of 6″. Those with a more defensive focus generally prefer the wider 6″ for increased checks and ball protection.
Midfielders and attackers typically opt for 10″-15″ heads depending on play style and preference. The 12″ or 13″ models offer a nice balance of control and power for most.
Regardless of size, the consistent shape and technology ensure the Mark 2A delivers the same great performance. Consider age, position, and style when choosing your head size.
Where to Buy Online
The Mark 2A is stocked by all major lacrosse retailers so you can find competitive pricing.
Lacrosse Unlimited, Lax.com, and Sideline Swap always keep the latest colors and sizes in stock. Their frequent sales and promotions can net big savings on the head.
For custom stringing options, check out StringKing’s website directly. You can build your stick to spec with preferred mesh, strings, and accessories.
Amazon also stocks the Mark 2A and offers fast shipping for Prime members. Just beware of potential counterfeits from unauthorized sellers.
For the best deals, keep an eye out for holiday sales events. The head often sees major discounts for Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekend.
Alternatives to Consider
While the Mark 2A is a top choice, competitors make comparable heads worth considering.
The Maverik Optik provides a similar blend of stiffness, control, and value. It utilizes flexion matrix technology for optimized flex points and pocket placement.
For a premium option, the Epoch Dragonfly rises to the top. Its ultra-stiff Carbon Pro material and Integrafuse construction offer next-level performance.
Warrior evokes the Mark 2A’s minimalist aesthetic with their Revo 3 lineup. The Dictator model provides stiff yet lightweight playability especially for face-off specialists.
For goalies, check out STX’s Shield lineup which incorporates rigid sidewalls and a tapered scoop design. The Surgeon model works well for field players too.
While the Mark 2A is hard to beat, trying out some of these other top-tier heads can help find your perfect match.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Stringking Mark 2A demonstrates why it remains a top seller year after year. With its elite-level performance at an affordable price point, it’s easy to see the appeal for players of all skill levels.
From its precision engineered flex profile to robust weatherized construction, every design element aims to optimize playability and durability.
Yet perhaps most impressive is the versatility the head provides. Attackmen, middies, defenders, and FOGOs alike can benefit from the Mark 2A’s lightweight precision and consistency.
If you’re looking to elevate your game without breaking the bank, few heads can compete with the Mark 2A. It raises the bar for high-end play on a budget. After using it, you may never go back to using anything else!