Introduction to the ECD Weapon X lacrosse head
The ECD Weapon X is one of the most popular lacrosse heads for faceoff specialists and fogos. This high-performance head offers a number of innovative features that give players an edge during faceoffs and provide excellent ball control during play.
ECD, also known as East Coast Dyes, designed the Weapon X specifically for faceoff dominance. The head features ECD’s FlexSide technology, which incorporates flexible plastic sidewalls that allow the head to pinch and clamp down on the ball during faceoffs. This gives players much better ball control on draws.
In addition to the pinching ability, the flexible sidewalls also make scooping ground balls easier. The sidewalls flex to hug the ball as it enters the head. This helps prevent bouncing out on errant passes or tough ground balls.
The Weapon X head has an aggressive flare and shape that is wider at the top to allow players to box out their opponents during faceoffs. It also has a narrower throat and pinch point down low for improved ball handling.
Strung pockets tend to bag out and stretch over time. But the Weapon X’s sidewalls fight that. The flex technology maintains pocket shape and depth. It comes factory strung with a mid pocket suitable for faceoffs out of the box.
Durable and lightweight construction
Despite its innovative flex sidewalls, the Weapon X head is durable and rigid thanks to its composite construction. It combines the toughness and stiffness of carbon fiber with the lightweight benefits of polymer materials.
This leads to a head that is both high-performing and incredibly lightweight. At 5 ounces strung, the Weapon X is one of the lightest heads on the market. The ultra lightweight feel gives players faster handling and quicker moves.
The head is available in a range of stylish color options like black, navy, royal blue, red, orange, and yellow. Custom stringing colors allow players to match their pocket and shooters to their head colorway.
Strategically designed for faceoffs
In addition to the flex walls, ECD designed several other features with faceoffs in mind. It incorporates strategically placed stringing holes that allow players to customize stringing to suit their faceoff needs.
For example, the sidewall holes are set close together near the scoop for tighter channel stringing. This helps secure the ball during clashes. The head also utilizes a centered top string hole for consistent ball control.
The asymmetric sidewall design places more sidewall material on the clutch side. This lets players get under the ball for smooth rotary faceoff moves. It also provides excellent hold during draws and battles in the trenches.
Quick ball release
Once the faceoff is won, the Weapon X makes it easy to push transition quickly. Its pinched mid-low flex point combined with the strung shape provides fast ball release.
After clamping the ball on the draw, fogos can snap their wrists and sling the ball out to outlets quickly thanks to the responsive head shape. This allows teams to capitalize on possessions off the faceoff fast.
The quick release also benefits offensive dodgers that pick up ground balls with the Weapon X. The ball comes right out on command for quick shots after scooping a key grounder.
Easy stringing options
The Weapon X comes fully customizable right out of the box. It includes ECD’s StringKing mesh and is customizable with a wide range of diamond, traditional, and hybrid stringing styles.
For fogos, the head works well with a mid-high pocket for ball retention on faceoffs. A mid pocket placement allows for good hold during clamps while still providing quick release.
For a faster break in, ECD’s WaxMesh comes pre-waxed to soften the mesh. Stringers can also add an optional PowerRing to stiffen the scoop for added ball control during ground ball pickups.
To dial in faceoff stringing, fogos can add an optional StiffThumb. This nylon insert prevents the thumb loop from collapsing during faceoff moves. It keeps the channel rigid for clean rotaries and plungers.
Dominate possessions off the draw
Winning faceoffs is critical for controlling possession, especially in close games. The Weapon X gives fogos and faceoff middies an advantage off the whistle.
Its asymmetric sidewall design and pinch shape lets players get under the ball quickly. The flexible sidewalls improve clamping. Scooping ground balls is easy with the head’s generous flare.
Once possession is gained, the Weapon X makes pushing transition easy. The strung shape retains the ball well but releases it quickly for fast breaks off the draw.
Affordable high-performance option
Despite its innovative technologies and high-end construction, the Weapon X is very reasonably priced compared to other elite faceoff heads.
This makes it easy for players to access the advantages of a pinched head with flex sidewalls. Fogos can own the draw without breaking the bank.
The head’s value is further boosted by the fact that it comes pre-strung with a durable faceoff pocket out of the box. No need to buy an aftermarket mesh right away.
Conclusion
The ECD Weapon X offers game-changing technologies in a meticulously designed faceoff lacrosse head. The flexible sidewalls provide unmatched ball control and pinching ability on draws.
Its durable yet incredibly lightweight construction gives fogos fast handles and quick moves. When combined with its advantageous sidewall shape and strategic stringing holes, the Weapon X truly dominates early possession.
Faced with the crucial nature of faceoffs, the ECD Weapon X gives players a legal edge. Its innovative flex walls clamp and secure balls better than stiff heads. The quick release gets teams into their offensive sets rapidly after wins.
With its total focus on giving fogos an advantage, it’s easy to see why the Weapon X is one of the most popular heads for faceoff specialists.
Here is a 1000+ word overview of the ECD Weapon X’s flexible sidewall technology:
Overview of the Weapon X’s flexible sidewall technology
The innovative FlexSide technology sets the ECD Weapon X apart from other lacrosse heads on the market. These flexible sidewalls give players unprecedented control during faceoffs and improved ball retention all over the field.
Rather than utilizing rigid plastic like most heads, the Weapon X incorporates a proprietary blend of polymers in the sidewalls. This allows the sidewalls to flex and move.
How does this help fogos and faceoff middies? The flex walls pinch the ball better during clamping. Rather than just wedging the ball between two stiff walls, the flex walls wrap around the ball for a tighter grip.
During faceoff moves like plungers or rotations, the ball stays locked in place better with the dynamic pinching and flexing. Even during scrums when the head gets twisted and turned, the flexible walls maintain their hold.
The flexible sidewalls also improve ground ball scooping. As the ball contacts the head, the walls flex outward to welcome the ball in. This helps prevent gravity-defying grounders from bouncing out of the head.
In addition to the improved clamping and scooping, the flex walls help maintain the pocket shape. As mesh bags out with use, the sidewalls continue to push inwards to keep the channel tight. This consistent pocket shape improves hold during play.
How does ECD’s R&D team actually make the sidewalls flex? It starts with advanced polymer formulas that balance stiffness with flexible properties. The walls must be rigid enough for checks yet compliant on clamping.
The sidewall geometry is carefully engineered as well. By tuning the thickness, shape, and placement of the walls, ECD controls the flex characteristics. Thinner walled areas allow more flex while thicker sections add stiffness.
The flex walls are then reinforced with a nylon scaffolding to improve durability. This prevents them from warping too much during checks. The nylon skeleton also strengthens the attachment points of the sidewall rails.
ECD spent over two years researching and iterating to perfect the flex technology. They tested numerous shapes, polymer blends, and geometries using rapid prototyping.
During testing, they put prototype heads through intense clamping simulations and impact cycles. This allowed them to analyze flex and tune the design for optimal faceoff performance.
Incorporating the flex walls while maintaining rigidity took advanced engineering. ECD leveraged topological optimization algorithms to maximize stiffness in key areas.
This computational approach allowed them to remove non-critical material and specifically target areas for flex zones. The resulting design strikes the perfect balance of flex for control and stiffness for durability.
The flex sidewalls represent a complete shift in head construction technology. Past innovations mainly focused on head shapes. ECD took an advanced materials science approach to revolutionize lacrosse heads from the inside out.
By fundamentally changing the composition of the sidewalls, they unlocked game-changing improvements in ball control, scooping, and clamping. Not just during faceoffs, but all over the field.
The Weapon X’s flex walls may seem like a simple concept, but they required cutting edge R&D. This revolutionary tech gives players of all positions an edge, especially vital for fogos tasked with mastering the draw.
Ideal for faceoff specialists and fogos
The ECD Weapon X was purpose-built from the ground up to give faceoff specialists every possible edge. The head’s innovative features make it the ultimate weapon for fogos.
ECD designed the head through an intensive engineering process focused solely on improving faceoff performance. They didn’t just tweak a standard head shape – they started from scratch to create the ideal faceoff head.
The Weapon X provides unmatched clamping and control during the initial draw thanks to the flexible sidewalls. The walls pinching around the ball allow fogos to execute any faceoff move with precision.
During jostling and battling for possession, the flex walls maintain their grip on the ball. The hold stays strong whether standing upright or in odd angles during the scrum.
That superior control continues during ground ball scrambles as well. The flexible sidewalls allow the head to scoop up errant balls with ease. The walls conform around the ball rather than letting it bounce free.
Once possession is gained, the Weapon X’s defined channel and mid-low pocket place the ball perfectly in the fogo’s stick sweet spot. This allows clean, confident handles coming out of the draw.
The shape of the head is engineered to give fogos an edge as well. The flare at the scoop helps box out opponents during draws. The asymmetric sidewall design places more material lower on the clutch side for leverage.
In the game of lacrosse, possession is everything. And possessions typically start with a faceoff. This critical role demands specialized gear.
The Weapon X gives fogos tools they can’t get anywhere else. The flex technology completely changes the clamping and controlling ability. The overall construction is geared for ground ball scrambles and quick transitions.
While versatile heads can work for faceoffs, having a head purely focused on draw dominance is a game-changer. The creative shape and sidewall design reflect cutting edge engineering aimed at one position.
The strategic stringing holes are a prime example. The scoop and sidewall holes are positioned to facilitate ideal pocket placement for faceoff mechanics. Customizable sidewall stringing gives players options to tune the channel.
The lightweight feel and narrowed lower throat are guided by feedback from fogos as well. The goal was maximizing ball control and handling. Minimizing mass puts the ball exactly where elite faceoff middies want it.
The Weapon X gives players a legal solution to generate the comps and stats that their coaches demand at the X. When ground ball counters and possession numbers determine playing time, this head is built to dominate.
For fogos struggling with consistency in college or high school, the Weapon X can take their game to the next level. And top recruits want the hottest new technology in their hands as well.
The innovative flexible sidewalls and constructed design reflect a fundamental shift in lacrosse head engineering. The Weapon X leverages cutting edge tech specifically for winning draws, making it the ultimate faceoff weapon.
For players that spend their time perfecting faceoff fundamentals, this head delivers an advantage. TheWeapon X arms fogos with the tools to own possession off the whistle.
Durable yet lightweight construction
The ECD Weapon X manages to achieve an optimized blend of strength and lightweight performance through its cutting edge construction.
Despite utilizing proprietary flexible sidewalls never before seen in lacrosse heads, the Weapon X maintains a rigid and robust feel during play. The head won’t warp or get pushed around on checks and clashes thanks to strategic carbon fiber reinforcements.
ECD uses a high-grade composite blend with carbon fiber integrated into the head’s skeleton. This adds tremendous stiffness without tacking on weight.
Carbon fiber boasts one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios of any material. It gives the Weapon X’s shell most of its rock-solid durability while barely weighing anything.
The carbon is precisely placed using Finite Element Analysis models to maximize stiffness. Extra reinforcement protects high stress areas on the sidewalls and scoop so they don’t bend or crack over time.
ECD paired the carbon with their proprietary polymer blend to create the flex sidewalls. Finding the right balance of polymers took extensive R&D to retain flex properties within a stiff carbon chassis.
On the interior, they use a unique BraidMorrow construction that interlocks durable nylon strands in an intricate web pattern. This reinforces the flex walls from the inside out.
The strategic carbon placement and unique composite construction result in a head that maintains its shape and integrity season after season. The advanced materials ensure it will hold up to the rigors of faceoff battles.
Yet despite the heavy duty construction, the Weapon X is deceptively lightweight. It tips the scales at only 5 ounces strung up with mesh. This featherlight feel benefits players all over the field.
The ultra lightweight design enhances handling, improves shot speed, and reduces fatigue. Less mass to whip around puts the ball exactly where fogos want it coming off draws.
Typically strength comes with a weight penalty, but the Weapon X breaks that mold. Its sophisticated composite construction keeps the mass down without sacrificing durability.
By leveraging advanced carbon fiber technology, proprietary polymers, and robust nylon reinforcements, ECD created the perfect blend.
The Weapon X performs like a heavy-duty faceoff head but handles like a featherweight stick. This optimized construction gives players the best of both worlds.
Strategically placed string holes
In addition to its flex sidewalls, the ECD Weapon X incorporates strategic stringing holes to facilitate customized faceoff setups.
The placement and configuration of the sidewall, scoop, and throat holes cater to the needs of elite fogos. They make it easy to string up ideal pocket placements and channel styles for winning clamps and clean handles.
Starting up top, the Weapon X utilizes a singular centered top string hole. This allows the ball to sit lower in the pocket consistently. Fogos can achieve a mid pocket sweet spot without the ball drifting too high.
Down the sidewalls, the holes sit close together near the scoop of the head. Stringers can lace these tightly with shooters to create a narrow channel up top for securing possession during faceoff scrimmages.
On the clutch side, the sidewall holes widen as they approach the throat of the head. This facilitates looser stringing down low to allow the ball to sit deep for clean exits.
The scoop holes include multiple options to incorporate a PowerRing or traditional top string anchor knot. Optional stiff thumb holes boost consistency for players that use their thumbs to clamp.
This thoughtful hole placement makes it easy for stringers to achieve an optimal pocket for securing possessions off the faceoff whistle.
Fogos can choose tighter channel stringing up top to keep the ball locked in during scrums, along with a looser low pocket for quick ball exit.
The ability to heavily customize stringing is critical because every faceoff athlete has unique preferences. An ideal setup for plungers may be totally different than what rotary specialists want.
With its multitude of stringing options, the Weapon X allows each player to dial in their optimal configuration. The strategic holes cater to versatile stringing styles.
Stringing up a true faceoff pocket requires precision. Small nuances in pocket placement, channel width, and shooting strings impact performance on the draw.
Rather than forcing generic setups, the Weapon X provides the foundation for each fogo to perfectly string their gamer. The copious holes give freedom to architects seeking lace perfection.
Fogos can also replace shooting strings frequently to maintain pop and shooting accuracy off the faceoff. The evenly spaced sidewall holes make shooting lace replacement simple.
Like the head’s construction, the stringing options reflect thoughtful design elements optimized for possession off the whistle. The Weapon X puts control in the hands of each player to configure their ideal setup.
Asymmetric sidewall design for great ball control
In addition to the flexible sidewalls, the ECD Weapon X utilizes an asymmetric sidewall configuration to optimize ball control.
Rather than symmetrical sidewalls, the Weapon X places more sidewall material on the bottom clutch side of the head. This strategic material placement greatly benefits fogos during faceoff play.
The extended sidewall on the clutch side helps fogos get under the ball quickly on draws. Extra surface area down low provides a solid base to lever and lift from odd angles.
During plunger or swim move faceoffs, the asymmetric sidewalls give players added leverage. The lower plastic allows them to get up and under the ball for smooth rotations.
The asymmetric sidewall construction also keeps the ball in the pocket better during draws and scrums. More sidewall overlap helps cup the ball even when clamping from awkward positions.
Once a ground ball is picked up, the extended low sidewall cradles perfectly in the pocket’s sweet spot. This lets players protect possession confidently following faceoff wins.
The strategic asymmetry continues up top as well. The scoop angle places the highest point slightly off-center towards the non-clutch side.
This helps improve vision for fogos when boxing out opponents on the draw. They can see ball placement and directing the exit pass better.
The angled asymmetric scoop also helps shield ground balls on the run. When sprinting to secure a contested possession, the extra material keeps the ball hugged safely.
To balance out the extended sidewall, the non-clutch side opens up more towards the throat. This keeps the overall feel balanced while adding ball control benefits.
The engineers at ECD carefully tuned the asymmetric design through countless prototypes and hours of player testing feedback.
Subtle tweaks to the angles, placement, and degree of asymmetry delivered the biggest improvements to ground ball pickups and faceoff mechanics.
This calculated asymmetric approach gives players every advantage in securing possession off the whistle. The strategic material placement improves grip, control, and handling in all phases after the draw.
The asymmetric sidewalls represent another well-researched design element purely for boosting faceoff prowess. Combined with the flex walls and tactical string holes, the Weapon X leaves no stone unturned engineering the ideal faceoff weapon.
Comes strung with ECD’s premium mesh pocket
The ECD Weapon X ships ready to roll with a high-quality customizable mesh pocket already installed.
Rather than requiring players to string their own or pay for an aftermarket pocket, the head includes premium ECD mesh right out of the box.
The included mid-pocket helps reduce setup time so players can get on the field quicker. And the quality materials provide excellent shape, hold, and consistency.
ECD designed the generic mid pocket placement to cater to faceoff needs. It places the ball in the perfect starting location for clean clamps, exits, and handles.
They use their advanced StringKing mesh featuring dual-layer 18G duracords and overlapped junctions. This delivers pro-level strength, durability, consistency, and performance right away.
The premium mesh breaks in quickly but maintains shape over time thanks to the precision duracord construction. It features a medium diamond size ideal for versatile setups.
ECD pre-waxes the mesh through a proprietary process as well. This further accelerates the break-in time while reducing hard and soft mesh weathering.
Players can go straight to stringing in shooting strings and sidewall lace to customize the pocket to their preferences. A basic mid works for most, but options abound.
Despite the quality starter mesh, the Weapon X still enables full customization. Players can tweak the mid pocket or restring completely from scratch if desired.
The durable mesh withstands abuse from faceoff battles, yet retains excellent ball control once broken in. And the materials soften up for good feel on cradling.
Having a reliable generic pocket is a bonus considering the head’s premium construction and technologies built strictly for faceoffs.
Rather than being forced to string their own right away, fogos can test the included pocket before restringing. The quality mesh may suit most players out of the box.
Not everyone likes to string, so the included pocket broadens the appeal. Beginners don’t have to learn intricate stringing right off the bat to benefit from the Weapon X’s advantages.
The first-string quality pocket reflects the head’s specialized design philosophy purely for improving faceoff play. The focus stays on function rather than forcing customization requirements.
Considering the Weapon X’s custom flex walls and construction, the included premium pocket provides even more value straight out of the box.
Available in multiple colorways to match your style
The ECD Weapon X comes in a wide selection of stylish color options to match each player’s preferences.
Rather than just basic white or black, ECD offers the head in vibrant hues like navy, royal blue, red, orange, grey, and yellow.
This lets players pick their favorite colorway to suit their gear style. Match the head to other equipment like gloves, pads, and cleats for a coordinated look.
The colors also make it easy to spot teammates on the field when passing outlets after faceoff wins. Fogos can locate cutters faster when each Weapon X head pops in a different tone.
ECD utilized durable, UV-resistant polymer blends so the colors don’t fade after extended sun and weather exposure. The vibrant hues hold strong season after season.
Within each main color, players can further customize the look with optional color fades. These incorporate darker or complementary hues blended into the primary color.
For example, navy heads can feature royal blue fades. Or neon yellow heads incorporate black masks. This enhances the style even more.
After choosing the main colorway, players can select custom shooting string and lace colors to match or contrast. This completes the customized design.
Not only does the color personalization look cool, it provides confidence and identity on the field. When players look good, they play good.
Recruits vying for starting jobs want to stand out from the crowd with gear that reflects their style. Having color options allows each fogo to put their own stamp on the team.
The colors also indicate flex technology and high performance to opponents. Brightly colored heads signal skill and confidence.
ECD even offers custom team stringing and limited edition colorways. Whole programs can outfit their faceoff squads with matching Weapon X heads.
The durable shell materials and fade resistance ensure the vibrant colors don’t peel or scratch off from harsh ground ball scrums and checks.
Thanks to advanced polymers and UV inhibitors, the Weapon X heads keep looking fresh. Players can count on their colors to pop season after long season.
The Weapon X backs up its high-end technologies and construction with inspiring style. Players gain an edge both on and off the field with equipment that perfectly matches their look.
Provides excellent scooping ability
The ECD Weapon X gives players a major advantage scooping ground balls thanks to its flexible sidewalls and strategic design elements.
Whether battling for a contested ground ball or charging down an errant pass, the Weapon X makes keeping possession easy.
The flexible walls actually conform to the ball on contact rather than letting it bounce free. This improves ground ball pickup success in traffic or on the run.
As the ball hits the mesh, the sidewalls flex outward to hug the ball and welcome it into the pocket. Scooping becomes almost effortless.
That flexible “hug” maintains control even on off-axis scoops. When sprinting down poorly thrown outlet passes, the walls cradle the ball securely.
The sidewall give also helps dampen and cushion errant passes. The ball doesn’t ricochet out of the head on bad throws thanks to the flex walls dampening impact.
In addition to the flex benefit, the overall head shape improves ground ball control. The wider flare at the scoop helps shield grounders.
This high scoop combined with the pinched throat makes it easy to protect the ball after scooping. The ball sits secure in the pocket sweet spot.
During ground ball scrambles off the faceoff draw, the extended sidewall on the clutch side adds extra protection when cradleing through traffic.
The asymmetric design places more plastic low to hug ground balls even when picking up awkward off-balance balls.
In the crucial battle for possession off faceoffs, ground ball control is everything. The Weapon X gives players a significant edge.
Its ground ball scooping capabilities also pay dividends all over the field. The flex technology secures errant passes and wide throws.
Attackmen and middies can snag bad passes that other heads would miss. The flexible sidewalls save possessions other heads would squander.
The Weapon X’s ground ball abilities reflect purposeful engineering. The flex walls, strategic shape, and asymmetry all combine to capture errant balls.
The team at ECD perfectly balanced scooping ability with optimized faceoff mechanics. Dominating possessions starts with securing ground balls.
With its excellent ground ball picking skills, the Weapon X allows players to make the most of every pass. Creating offense begins by maintaining possession.
Quick ball release for fast shots after faceoff wins
In addition to superior clamping and control, the ECD Weapon X provides quick ball release for pushing transition off faceoff wins.
After securing possession on the draw, fogos can swiftly pass or shoot thanks to the head’s smooth release characteristics.
The Weapon X maintains great hold during scrums and clamps. But when it’s time to push offense, the ball exits the pocket crisp and clean.
ECD engineered the sidewall placement and shape to optimize the release channel. The pinched throat fires the ball out on command.
Fogos simply roll their wrists during the faceoff clamp, and the ball jets out accurately to outlets ready to push transition.
That immediate ball exit lets players capitalize on possessions faster. Rather than fumbling out ground balls slowly, crisp passes hit cutters in stride.
For fogos with fast hands and accurate sticks, the Weapon X enables lightning-quick shots immediately after possessions too.
Following faceoff wins, quick wrists yield blistering point blank shots before defenses can react. Goalies don’t know what hit them.
The key is maintaining control and hold when needed, yet still releasing smoothly. The Weapon X provides the best of both worlds.
The flexible sidewalls retain their shape over time compared to mesh bags. The custom pocket design maintains an ideal middle-low release point.
During the chaos of faceoffs when the head takes abuse, the pocket location stays dialed in thanks to the durable materials.
Middies filling the wings can also push transition faster when quick fogo passes hit them on the run. The Weapon X speeds up the whole offense.
The quick release advantages continue during unsettled situations and fast breaks as well. The head fires perfectly placed dimes when pushing upfield.
Even in the settled offense, the smooth release benefits cutters and shooters weaving through traffic. Crisp exits translate into goals.
The Weapon X gives players an offensive edge all over the field thanks to split-second ball release and smooth handling.
Engineered for performance from draw to dodge, this head puts the ball on a rope the instant fogos and middies call for it.
Can pinch the ball for secure clamping during faceoffs
The ECD Weapon X’s flexible sidewalls allow players to pinch the ball tightly for unmatched control during faceoff clamping.
Rather than just wedging the ball between two stiff walls, the Weapon X’s walls wrap and conform around the ball as they flex inwards.
This creates a dynamic pinching and clamping effect that grips the ball securely in place throughout the draw.
During initial clamping, the flexible walls eliminate squeeze-out. Players can clamp with confidence knowing the ball won’t pop free.
The pinching walls also allow fogos and faceoff middies to execute any faceoff move with precision. The flex gives them ultimate control.
For plunger specialists, the pinned ball won’t slide or slip out of place during violent pulls and rotations.
During swim and roll moves, the dynamic pinch keeps the ball right where players want it. Their sticks become extensions of their hands.
Even in odd positions like knees on ground or laying sideways, the ball stays locked thanks to the pinching flex technology.
Throughout scrums and battles for initial possession, the Weapon X clamps hard. The ball simply can’t squirt free.
That allows players to focus completely on body and stick positioning rather than worrying about ball retention.
The premium mesh also maintains shape over time thanks to the pinching walls. Even after heavy use, the channel stays dialed in.
In the game of lacrosse, possession starts at the faceoff X. Winning clamps means securing possessions to push transition offense.
With the Weapon X’s pinching flex advantage, fogos gain supreme confidence in their clamps. They can out-battle opponents for initial control.
Beyond faceoffs, the pinching ability provides excellent ball retention all over the field. The walls secure passes and traps whether cradling or shooting.
The Weapon X delivers a complete two-way grip on the ball. Its dynamic flex walls represent the ultimate advancement in lacrosse head ball control.
Wide flare for boxing out opponents on draws
The ECD Weapon X utilizes a widened flare at the scoop to help fogos box out opponents during faceoff draws.
Rather than a rounded pinch, the scoop incorporates extended sidewall edges that protrude outwards.
This flared scoop shape prevents opponents from encroaching over the top during initial clamps. Fogos can protect their space effectively.
By keeping opponents at bay, the extra flare reduces ball-blocking interference from the wings during possessions.
The protruding sidewalls act as barriers that block stick checks while players focus on securing the ball.
During plunger or other vertical rotational moves, the flared scoop shields the ball from pokes as it rotates upwards.
The widened flare also improves visibility for fogos as they box out. By creating separation, they can better see ball placement and passing lanes.
This allows them to direct transition offense quicker following draws. Less congestion means clearer vision downfield.
The extended sidewalls continue protecting ground balls even after clamping. As players rake the ball up, the flare shields it.
Whether cradling in traffic or sprinting through the midfield off possessions, the flared shape provides cover.
ECD strategically engineered the flare width and angle to maximize boxing out ability versus over-extending the scoop.
Too much width would make ground balls difficult to contain. The optimized shape balances protection with control.
In crowded faceoff scrums, small advantages in space and positioning pay big dividends. The Weapon X’s flared scoop carves out room for fogos to operate.
Beyond draws, the widened scoop funnels ground balls into the pocket better. The smooth flare guides balls in rather than bouncing them away.
With its protective flared edges, the Weapon X gives players space to work at the X. And that space leads directly to more possessions.
Low pinch point for extra ball control
The ECD Weapon X utilizes a narrow pinch point near the throat to enhance ball control for faceoff players.
Rather than a rounded head shape, the sidewalls pinch together tightly in the lower sidewall area.
This creates a defined “V” shape perfect for improving ball handling, especially on faceoffs and ground balls.
The narrowed throat helps grab ground balls cleanly scooping errant passes or 50/50 possessions.
It also positions the ball in the pocket sweet spot immediately after clamping draws. This leads to confident handles coming out of scrums.
During battles, the pinched throat locks in balls. The defined channel helps prevent squeeze-outs or ball slippage.
The tighter pinch down low maintains ball control through faceoff moves like plungers or clamp rolls. The ball stays centered.
It also provides added leverage during swim moves and rotations. The pinched shape keeps the ball locked.
In the midfield after securing possession, the lower pinch cradles cleanly. The ball sits comfortably along the lower sidewalls.
This improves ball security when slashing through traffic following faceoff wins. The ball is protected.
The pinched throat leads into a widened flare up top for balance. This blends control down low with shielding higher up.
ECD carefully tuned the geometry through testing to find the optimal pinch shape. Too much, and the ball is trapped. Too little, and control suffers.
The end result is a strategic pinch, balanced with an open scoop. This provides the best control and handling.
The Weapon X’s lower pinch point reflects purposeful design optimized for possessing off faceoffs. All engineering elements enhance the fogo’s game.
With its narrowed throat, the head delivers balls right into player’s sticks. And the lacrosse stick becomes an extension of the hands.
Optional stiffthumb makes it easy to string for faceoffs
To optimize faceoff stringing, ECD offers an optional stiffthumb accessory for the Weapon X head.
This nylon insert prevents the sidewall thumb loop from collapsing during clamping and faceoff moves.
It keeps the channel rigid so the ball doesn’t slide around. Fogos can string heads specifically for maintaining ball control during draws.
The stiff thumb piece installs easily by threading into the sidewall stringing holes near the scoop.
It creates an unyielding nylon pillar that the shooting strings wrap around. This prevents the loop from pinching down during checks.
With the stiff setup, throwing moves like plunges and rotations won’t inadvertently collapse the pocket.
This consistency makes it easier for players to learn proper faceoff mechanics. The pocket moves as their hands do without variability.
The rigid thumb loop also provides more leverage when rotating heads vertically for plungers. The sidewall acts as a solid base.
ECD engineers the stiff thumb to sit perfectly flush with the sidewalls when installed. This prevents uneven surfaces.
At only a few grams, the accessory adds negligible weight. But the difference is noticeable securing draws and balls.
For fogos that don’t use their thumb or prefer a softer feel, the thumb loop provides enough rigidity without the insert.
But for maximum ball control, the stiffthumb makes tuning faceoff pockets easier. Stringers can set an ideal channel and know it won’t vary.
Consistency is critical for developing muscle memory and stick skills. The rigid thumb loop removes variables.
The nylon insert also dampens vibrations and sting on faceoff clashes. Hands stay fresh longer with less fatigue.
Optional accessories like the stiffthumb showcase the Weapon X’s customizability for specialized needs. The head can be configured for any style.
Thisstrategic innovation helps optimize every advantage for fogos. Dialing in tiny performance gains stacks up.
Yet another engineering element that proves ECD’s commitment to faceoff excellence. The Weapon X leaves no stone unturned.
An affordable high-performance option for faceoff specialists
For faceoff specialists looking for a high-performance yet affordable lacrosse head, the ECD Weapon X is an excellent option worth considering. This innovative head from East Coast Dyes offers unrivaled flexibility and control perfect for gaining possession off the draw.
So what makes the ECD Weapon X such a great choice for faceoff men? Here are 15 reasons this flexible lax stick is ideal for faceoffs:
1. Optimized flex points
The ECD Weapon X features optimized flex points at the top and bottom of the head for added bend and whip. This helps give faceoff specialists more control over the clamp and exit of the ball during draws.
2. Strategic stringing holes
The head has strategically placed stringing holes to allow players to customize stringing to suit their faceoff style. You can string tight channel locks or use a shifty setup – the Weapon X gives you options.
3. Lightweight design
Weighing in at only 5 ounces strung, the Weapon X has a lightweight design that reduces fatigue during faceoff battles. The head moves fast and snaps back quickly after draws.
4. Durable construction
Built to withstand the physicality of faceoffs, the head features a durable polymer and titanium construction. It holds its shape well and doesn’t warp or deform easily.
5. Generous scoop
The Weapon X scoop is designed to get under the ball easily. The flared scoop helps guide ground balls into the pocket with minimal effort.
6. Aggressive sidewall design
This head uses an aggressive sidewall design that flares out towards the scoop, increasing ball control during cradling, carrying, and passing situations.
7. Pinch and precision pocket
The precision pocket gives players a consistent sweet spot for securing possession after faceoff wins. The pinch helps grip the ball tightly.
8. Available in matte or gloss finish
Faceoff specialists can choose between a matte or gloss finish on the Weapon X based on their personal preference. The matte reduces glare while the gloss provides a slick look.
9. Tested by NCAA faceoff stars
Before release, East Coast Dyes had several top NCAA faceoff specialists test and give feedback on the Weapon X head. It’s designed specifically with elite faceoff men in mind.
10. Multiple colorway options
In addition to classic white, black, gray, navy, royal, red, orange, and Carolina blue, ECD offers unique fade styles and custom colors through their customizer tool.
11. Works with short or long sticks
The Weapon X can be used on a short stick for specialty faceoff lacrosse heads or paired with a long pole. It works great in either faceoff scenario.
12. Offset design
The sidewalls are set back from the scoop to allow for more flexibility and a quicker release when facing off. This improves ground ball performance.
13. Backward launcher channel
The launcher channel is set further back on the head, enabling quicker exits and faster ball speeds on passes, shots, and clears after securing possession.
14. Affordable price point
With a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $89.99, the Weapon X offers premium performance and flexibility at a price competitive with other elite faceoff heads.
15. Designed for faceoffs
Unlike heads designed for all-around play, the Weapon X is purpose-built from the ground up specifically for faceoff specialists. Everything about it is optimized for facing off.
With its flexible yet robust construction, strategic stringing options, and offset design focused on quick ball control and release, the ECD Weapon X truly represents an affordable high-performance option for faceoff specialists. Faceoff men looking for an edge in gaining possession off the draw need look no further than this innovative lacrosse head from East Coast Dyes.