Metal Pro Head Design and Shape
The StringKing Metal Pro lacrosse head stands out with its unique head shape and design. This head features an aggressive hourglass-like shape with a pinched scoop and abruptly flared sidewalls. The scoop itself has a steep drop into the pocket area, allowing for easy ground ball pickup and quick ball control on the run.
Unlike many competing heads with rounded, gradual contours, the Metal Pro has sharply defined angles and edges. This gives it a very stiff and rigid feel, minimizing flex and whip. Experienced players note the head provides incredible ball retention and accuracy on passes, shots, and feeds.
The sidewall design is another highlight of the Metal Pro. StringKing utilized a technology called MetaFlex to integrate angular, rigid sidewalls that taper out steeply from the scoop. This gives the head its signature flared profile while also adding structure and snap. The stiff sidewalls combined with the strategic stringing holes allow players to customize very defined pocket shapes.
In terms of overall dimensions, the Metal Pro has a narrower top rail and wider flare than previous StringKing heads. It measures 6 inches at the top and expands to over 7 inches at the widest point. This gives it a medium-high pocket and deep shape – ideal for confident, accurate shooters and passers.
While cross-field throws and quick sticks may require some adjustment with the Metal Pro, most players praise the head’s performance for shooting, feeding, and picking up ground balls. The defined shape adds consistency and makes the head very easy to string compared to other brands.
Overview of StringKing as a Lacrosse Brand
StringKing has become one of the most popular lacrosse equipment brands over the past decade, especially among elite and professional players. Founded in 2014, StringKing focuses solely on designing high-performance lacrosse gear including heads, shafts, gloves, and mesh.
The company was started by Jake Steinfeld, a fitness entrepreneur, and a team of lacrosse enthusiasts and experts. Steinfeld wanted to create a brand focused on innovation and quality in lacrosse equipment, with input from professional players at every step.
StringKing is headquartered in Los Angeles and emphasizes careful design and testing in creating its products. The company has several Major League Lacrosse stars such as Paul Rabil, Mark Matthews, and Joey Sankey providing feedback on gear development and testing prototypes.
This focus on elite-level design has allowed StringKing to gain significant popularity and market share in a short time. The company’s lacrosse heads consistently rank among the best-sellers year after year. StringKing is known for engineering advanced heads with perfect balance, shot speed, hold, and ball control.
Some of StringKing’s most iconic and highest rated heads include the Mark 2V, Mark 2F, and now the Metal 2 Pro. The company has introduced game-changing technology into lacrosse head design, including a stiffening resin injection process and unique sidewall shapes.
In the mesh category, StringKing is best known for developing the first thermo-molded, wax-infused mesh called Throne Mesh. This brought consistent, high-performance pocket shapes and weather-proof durability to the game. The success of Throne Mesh spurred more innovation in lacrosse mesh technology.
With its roots deeply embedded in elite lacrosse culture and a mission to keep innovating, StringKing has cemented itself as a top brand. The Metal 2 Pro head demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to optimizing performance through thoughtful engineering.
Scoop and Channel Performance
One of the most unique features of the StringKing Metal Pro head is the scoop and channel design. This area is engineered for quick ground ball control and smooth handling on the run.
The Metal Pro has an extremely pinched and tapered scoop that drops steeply into the pocket area. This creates a defined channel that is narrow at the top and widens farther down into the head. The abrupt angled scoop allows for easy ground ball pickup with a simple forward motion.
Since the scoop itself is narrower than other heads, it takes a bit more precision to directly channel balls into it. However, once entering the head, balls smoothly transition into the pocket for immediate control. The pocket is also set deeper into the head for greater ball retention once picked up.
During ground balls, the rigid sidewalls prevent flutter that could lead to dropped balls. The pocket forms a natural ramp and outlet for quickly channeling ground balls upfield or to the backside arm for protection.
On the run, the Metal Pro gives players outstanding control and ball security. The defined pocket shape cradles smoothly, keeping the ball tucked close to the head through any fakes or changes in direction. Players note the head provides a very connected, responsive feel when running down the alley or through traffic.
The only downside is the Metal Pro takes some adjustment for tossing quick off-hand passes from awkward angles. The pocket location and sidewall stiffness require passing from the center channel for best results. But for ground balls andbasic cradling, the head delivers everything needed.
Overall, StringKing optimized the Metal Pro’s scoop, channel, and pocket to give players confidence moving the ball fluidly under pressure. The head excels in ground ball situations and maintaining composure on the run.
Sidewall Stiffness and Durability
The StringKing Metal Pro lacrosse head incorporates a cutting-edge sidewall design to provide maximum stiffness and durability during play. This innovative engineering makes the sidewalls a defining feature of the head.
Rather than using a gradual curved or rounded sidewall frame, the Metal Pro utilizes StringKing’s MetaFlex technology to create stiff, angular sidewalls. These sidewalls have well-defined edges and actually taper out wider from the scoop area.
This unique shape gives the head its signature rigid and flared profile. By minimizing flex and flutter, the MetaFlex sidewalls give players unmatched control and consistency in passing, catching, and shooting.
The materials comprising the Metal Pro sidewalls are a fusion of tough metals and advanced polymer compounds. This infusion of premium alloys enhances the head’s stiffness and strength-to-weight ratio. The edges remain sharp and structured after repeated impacts.
In addition to the sidewall shape and composition, the strategic placement of stringing holes allows players to optimize pocket location. Large triangular holes at the base give flexibility for attaching the shooting strings deep into the head.
The Metal Pro achieves an elite level of ball retention and release consistency thanks to this cutting-edge sidewall engineering. Players can string more defined pockets knowing the sidewalls will maintain their integrity over time.
While the rigid design may take some adjustment coming from softer heads, the benefits for control and accuracy are clear. For high-level midfielders and attackmen, the Metal Pro’s sidewalls are a game-changer.
Weight Distribution and Balance
Optimal weight distribution and balance are critical for maximizing shot speed and ball control in a lacrosse head. The engineers at StringKing worked extensively with pro players to perfect the balance and feel of the Metal Pro head.
At first glance, the Metal Pro looks slightly heavier and chunkier than typical heads on the market. But this thicker plastic frame actually keeps the weight centered lower in the head. This gives it a very smooth, balanced feel during play.
By allocating more material along the lower sidewalls and collar area, StringKing avoided making the head feel top-heavy or clunky. When cradling, most players do not notice the extra weight compared to other heads in the same class.
The Metal Pro clocks in at 5 ounces strung, putting it right in the middle of the typical weight range for elite lacrosse heads. Since the weight is distributed so carefully, it feels lighter than the numbers suggest. The balance point is neutral, making transitions smooth.
When shooting, the centered weight distribution adds control and consistency. With the mass focused lower in the head, players can feel the sweet spot for accurate shots time after time. The defined pocket area and sidewalls keep shots consistent regardless of where the ball hits the mesh.
For a head with such technical shaping and construction, the Metal Pro retains a very natural and balanced feel. By sweating the details of weight allocation, StringKing created a high-performance head that still handles smoothly even under pressure situations.
Pocket Formation and Ball Control
The StringKing Metal Pro lacrosse head is engineered to give players maximum control over pocket shape and ball retention. The stiff sidewalls and strategic stringing holes let you customize defined pocket styles for precise passing and shooting.
Due to the angular sidewall design, the pocket forms very straight vertical channels instead of rounded ones. This allows midfield runners and attackmen to achieve consistent control and placement on passes upfield or to the crease.
With mesh like StringKing Type 3s or Throne Mesh, the Metal Pro gives outstanding hold. The ball sits deep in the head but releases cleanly with minimal hesitation or flutter. Many players note the head excels at putting heat on shots while retaining accuracy.
The Metal Pro comes pre-strung from StringKing with a mid-high pocket configuration ideal for offensive players. But the head leaves ample room for custom stringing based on individual play style and position.
For example, face-off specialists may opt for a shallower channel cut down the midpoint to get extra whip on clamp wins. Defensive midfielders might string a higher pocket for protecting the ball on clears and dumps.
No matter the pocket style, the Metal Pro’s sidewalls hold everything in place for unmatched consistency. The ball moves how and where you want with precision. The defined pocket area also provides a big sweet spot for catching difficult passes under pressure.
With practice, the Metal Pro gives you the ability to place shots and threads passes to exact spots. The head becomes an extension of your hands.
Shooting Accuracy and Power
The StringKing Metal Pro lacrosse head is designed from the ground up to boost shooting accuracy while retaining maximum ball speed and power. Everything from the scoop to sidewalls helps add consistency and control.
The rigid frame and MetaFlex sidewalls provide a stable base so the ball flies true shot after shot. Since the sidewalls resist flex and whip, shots maintain their intended trajectory even when you load up on power.
The head’s balance also promotes smooth, confident shooting mechanics. With the weight distributed low and centered, players can feel the sweet spot and place shots deliberately. The defined pocket area adds control no matter where you catch the pass initially.
Since the Metal Pro has a medium-high pocket and elongated taper, it provides some natural hold on shots. This allows players to get extra whip for velocity while maintaining pinpoint placement. You get the best of both worlds – speed and accuracy.
Attackmen will notice the biggest boost in sniping corners with the Metal Pro. The head gives you the confidence to shoot through tight passing lanes or underneath defenders’ sticks. Playing heavy top-side defense against Metal Pro shooters can be an invitation to get scorched.
For midfielders, the head adds consistency when unloading on the run or stepping into big shots from up top. The Metal Pro pocket keeps the ball stable when shooting off odd angles and on the move.
All in all, the Metal Pro gives shooters the tools to place shots confidently and stretch defenses thin. The head puts accuracy and power in your hands.
Ground Ball Pickup and Cradling
The StringKing Metal Pro excels in ground ball situations thanks to its specialized scoop and pocket area designed for quick ball control. The head also provides exceptional cradling and ball security on the run.
During ground balls, the Metal Pro’s stiff sidewalls and angular scoop make it easy to direct balls straight into the pocket. The pocket itself sits low in the head, forming a natural ramp to funnel ground balls upfield quickly.
Since the scoop has a narrow opening, you need to be more precise guiding ground balls into it. But once entering the channel, the pocket smoothly channels balls into the sweet spot for an immediate exit pass or secure hold.
The Metal Pro’s defined pocket area and sidewalls help dampen off-target passes as well. The ball is less likely to bounce or rattle around when picking up errant passes or bad throws.
Cradling with the Metal Pro gives players outstanding control, especially in traffic. The pocket moves the ball very linearly, reducing flutter that can lead to checks. Quick stick handles and rolls off picks happen effortlessly thanks to the connection the head provides.
The only minor downside is tossing fast feeds and cross-field passes from tough angles. You need to square up and pass from the center channel for best performance. But overall, ground balls and cradling shine with the Metal Pro head.
Face Shape for Precise Passing
The face shape and curvature on a lacrosse head have a big impact on passing performance and ball control. The StringKing Metal Pro utilizes a curved face shape optimized for precise feeds and quick sticks.
Instead of a flat or just slightly curved face, the Metal Pro has a defined C-shape curve built into the head design. This gives the pocket a natural pocket formation to cradle and control the ball.
Midfielders will notice sharper, more accurate passes with the curved head shape. The ball releases cleanly off the face, even when throwing on the run or off-angle.
Around the crease, attackmen can thread tight passes to the center of the field or hit cutters with confidence. The shape ensures the ball moves how you want when quick sticking or feeding inside.
The curved face shape also gives players a bit larger sweet spot for catching difficult passes. Off-target throws can be corralled and controlled thanks to the head shape guiding the ball into the pocket.
With its defined sidewalls and face curvature, the Metal Pro gives lacrosse players the technology to take their passing game to the next level. The ball simply goes where you want with this head.
The shape does take minor adjustment from flatter faced heads in terms of free-form passing. But for precise passing and feeding, the Metal Pro is hard to beat.
Custom Stringing Options and Flexibility
The StringKing Metal Pro gives players tremendous flexibility in stringing customized pocket styles thanks to its strategic stringing holes and stiff sidewall design.
The head comes pre-strung by StringKing with a mid-high pocket best suited for offensive midfielders, attackmen, and some middies. But the head leaves ample room for adjusting pocket placement and shape.
Due to the MetaFlex sidewalls, players can string deeper pockets without losing ball control or accuracy. The sidewalls hold everything in place securely. Attackmen can achieve more defined channel pockets for possession play around the crease.
For players who prefer a quicker release or more hold, the lower sidewall holes allow you to play with different shooting string placements. You can dial in the right amount of whip and speed for your position and style.
面交的 players have the flexibility to cut lower sidewall strings and customize the channel width to their liking. More seasoned players can experiment with unique multi-string patterns as well.
No matter your pocket preference, the Metal Pro gives you options. The rigid sidewalls allow you to string pockets that would bag out or lose shape in other heads. This head offers pro-level stringing possibilities.
As with any new head, you’ll want to give yourself time to tweak stringing and break-in the pocket. But the Metal Pro rewards those who take time to dial in their preferred pocket style.
Metal Pro vs. Other StringKing Heads
The StringKing Metal Pro enters a lineup of elite heads from StringKing including the Mark 2F, 2V, and others. How does it compare to the company’s other flagship heads?
Overall, the Metal Pro has many similarities to past StringKing heads but takes performance to another level in key areas like ball control, stiffness, and ground balls.
Like the Mark 2V and Mark 2F, the Metal Pro utilizes StringKing’s MetaFlex technology in the sidewalls. But the Metal Pro’s sidewalls are slightly stiffer thanks to the more angular shape and alloyed polymer material.
The Metal Pro also has a more defined face shape and curve than past StringKing heads. This further boosts control and accuracy on feeds, quick sticks, and passes upfield.
In terms of balance and feel, the Metal Pro retains the smooth StringKing style. But it has a bit lower pocket placement and centered weight focus ideal for shooters and offensive middies.
For ground balls, the Metal Pro’s severely tapered scoop outpaces other StringKing heads. It excels at getting clean ground ball pickup and quick transitions.
Players who liked the overall feel and performance of past StringKing heads will notice immediate benefits upgrading to the Metal Pro. It takes the StringKing formula to a new level across the board.
Metal Pro vs. Competitor Brand Heads
The StringKing Metal Pro enters a competitive field of elite lacrosse heads from brands like Maverik, Warrior, and others. How does it stack up against the top heads from other companies?
Overall, the Metal Pro competes head-to-head with the best heads across all categories. The well-balanced design, durable construction, and enhanced ball control make it stand out.
Against heads like the Maverik Kinetik, the Metal Pro has slightly stiffer sidewalls and better ground ball performance. Its sidewalls resist warping better over time than the Kinetik.
Compared to the Warrior Evo Warp, the Metal Pro has a more defined scoop and pocket area optimized for control. It also has more centered balance than the Evo Warp.
Against old favorites like the Nike Lakota and STX Stallion, the Metal Pro matches up very well. It brings innovation in sidewall design that gives it an edge in consistency.
Newer heads like the Epoch Dragonfly perform well but lack the pinpoint passing/shooting accuracy of the Metal Pro. The Dragonfly excels at power while the Metal Pro brings control.
No matter the competitor, the Metal Pro combines ground-breaking tech with incredible balance. It’s built to compete against other elite heads head-to-head at the highest levels.
Ideal Player Types for the Metal Pro
The StringKing Metal Pro lacrosse head is designed with elite offensive players in mind, including attackmen, midfielders, and some face-off midfielders. Here’s a closer look at ideal player types for this head.
For attackmen, the Metal Pro provides the control and ball retention needed to pick apart defenses from behind the cage. The defined pocket area and sidewalls make it easy to protect the ball while waiting for cutters to get open.
Thanks to the stiff sidewalls and curved face shape, the head excels at quick sticks, tight feeds, and placing shots in corners. The scoop design allows for snagging high passes as well.
In the midfield, the Metal Pro suits players who like to dodge and attack from up top. The pinpoint accuracy empowers you to place shots on the run. Face-off midfielders can use the head to gain an advantage on draws.
Defensive-minded midfielders may want a head with a bit more flex and hold than the Metal Pro. But offensive middies will notice a clear edge with ball control and placement.
The Metal Pro truly shines for experienced high school and college players looking to reach that next level. Its performance ceiling is incredibly high in the right hands. Taking time to adjust to the head is key.
For elite offensive players demanding consistency and control, few heads on the market rival the Metal Pro. It’s built for putting up big offensive numbers.
Summary – A Versatile and Durable Lacrosse Head
The StringKing Metal Pro enters the market as one of the most unique and high-performing lacrosse heads available today. It brings innovation in engineering and materials to provide next-level ball control and shooting accuracy.
By utilizing a stiff, angular sidewall design and strategically weighted frame, StringKing created a head with exceptional balance and feel. The pinched scoop and curved head shape also optimize ground ball pickup and precision passing.
While the Metal Pro excels for offensive players, its versatility also makes it a good choice for defensive midfielders and face-off specialists. The head gives you options to customize pocket placement as needed.
The only downside is the Metal Pro requires adjustment time coming from softer, more flexible heads. But once dialed in, it provides pro-level performance and durability.
For elite high school and college players seeking every advantage in ball control, possession play, and shooting accuracy, the StringKing Metal Pro is a go-to choice. It’s engineered for lacrosse athletes obsessed with maximizing their potential.
