What are the best defense lacrosse shafts for high school and college players. How do carbon fiber and metal options compare. Which shafts offer the best strength-to-weight ratio. What features should players look for in a defensive lacrosse shaft.
The Evolution of Defense Lacrosse Shafts: From Metal to Carbon Fiber
The landscape of defensive lacrosse equipment has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Gone are the days when metal shafts dominated the field. Today, players have a wide array of options, ranging from traditional metal to cutting-edge carbon fiber designs. This evolution has brought about improvements in weight, durability, and performance, catering to the diverse needs of defensive players at various skill levels.
Carbon fiber shafts have gained immense popularity due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. They offer the stiffness and durability required for defensive play while keeping the overall weight manageable. This allows players to maintain agility and speed on the field without sacrificing power in checks and ground ball battles.
Metal shafts, however, still have their place in the game. Many players prefer the familiar feel and proven durability of aluminum or titanium alloys. These shafts often come at a lower price point, making them an attractive option for players on a budget or those who prefer a more traditional setup.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Defense Lacrosse Shaft
Selecting the right defensive lacrosse shaft can significantly impact a player’s performance on the field. Here are some crucial factors to keep in mind:
- Material: Carbon fiber, aluminum, titanium, or composite blends
- Weight: Lighter shafts for speed and agility, heavier options for power
- Durability: Ability to withstand checks, ground balls, and overall wear and tear
- Grip: Textured surfaces or ergonomic designs for better control
- Flex: Stiffness for power or slight flex for improved feel
- Length: Regulation size for your level of play
- Price: Balance between quality and budget constraints
Is durability the most critical factor for defensive shafts? While durability is certainly important, the ideal shaft balances strength with weight and feel. A shaft that can withstand the rigors of defensive play while still allowing for quick movements and precise checks will ultimately provide the best performance on the field.
Maverik Mission Blank: The No-Frills Workhorse
The Maverik Mission Blank has earned its place on our list of top defensive shafts for its straightforward design and reliable performance. This shaft embodies the principle that sometimes less is more, especially for high school players developing their defensive skills.
Key Features of the Maverik Mission Blank:
- Adjustable butt end (ABE) for customized feel
- Clean, graphics-free design
- Sturdy construction suitable for aggressive play
- Ideal for high school players transitioning to a higher level of play
Why has the Maverik Mission Blank become popular among long stick middies (LSMs)? Its combination of strength and simplicity allows players to focus on their technique without distractions. The lack of graphics means players can customize the shaft to their liking, while the adjustable butt end provides flexibility in grip and balance.
Epoch Dragonfly Integra 2: Advanced Technology for Younger Players
The Epoch Dragonfly Integra 2 series brings high-end carbon fiber technology to a more accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for younger high school players or those looking to upgrade from entry-level equipment.
Standout Features of the Epoch Dragonfly Integra 2:
- Oval-feeling pole with subtle grip texture
- Carbon fiber construction for excellent strength-to-weight ratio
- Suitable for players in the 175-185 lbs range
- Incorporates technology from the higher-end Dragonfly 8 series
How does the Epoch Dragonfly Integra 2 benefit developing players? The carbon fiber construction provides a responsive feel that helps players develop better stick skills and ball control. The subtle grip and oval shape offer a comfortable hold, reducing fatigue during long practices or games.
Nike Vapor Elite 2: Speed and Precision in a Lightweight Package
For defensive players who prioritize quickness and agility, the Nike Vapor Elite 2 stands out as a top contender. This shaft’s design focuses on minimizing weight without compromising strength, resulting in a pole that feels like an extension of the player’s body.
Noteworthy Attributes of the Nike Vapor Elite 2:
- One of the lightest defensive shafts available
- Sharp edges for improved feel and control
- Well-balanced design for quick stick movements
- Ideal for players who rely on speed and finesse
How does the lightweight design of the Nike Vapor Elite 2 impact defensive play? The reduced weight allows for faster checks and improved reaction time when defending against quick attackers. Players can maintain their speed throughout the game, potentially giving them an edge in crucial moments.
East Coast Dyes Carbon Pro: High-End Performance at a Competitive Price
The East Coast Dyes Carbon Pro has quickly gained a reputation for offering premium performance without the premium price tag. This shaft has found particular favor among long stick middies (LSMs) for its combination of stiffness and accuracy.
Key Advantages of the East Coast Dyes Carbon Pro:
- Excellent stiffness and minimal twisting
- Great for accurate shots and passes
- Provides good “feel” for checks and ground balls
- Offers high-end carbon fiber technology at a more accessible price point
Why do LSMs particularly appreciate the East Coast Dyes Carbon Pro? The shaft’s stiffness allows for powerful and precise checks, while its ability to load up energy translates into accurate shots from distance – a crucial skill for LSMs who often find themselves in scoring positions during transitions.
Epoch Dragonfly 8: The Pinnacle of Carbon Fiber Technology
For players seeking the absolute best in defensive lacrosse shafts, the Epoch Dragonfly 8 series stands at the top of the mountain. These shafts represent the cutting edge of carbon fiber technology in lacrosse equipment.
Exceptional Qualities of the Epoch Dragonfly 8:
- Unparalleled strength-to-weight ratio
- Versatile performance suitable for youth to college-level play
- Excellent energy transfer for powerful checks and shots
- Advanced carbon layup for optimal flex and durability
How does the Epoch Dragonfly 8 adapt to different playing styles? The shaft’s advanced carbon fiber construction allows it to flex and respond differently based on the force applied. This means it can provide the stiffness needed for powerful checks while still offering enough flex for accurate passing and shooting.
STX Hammer 500: Built for the Collegiate Powerhouse
When it comes to sheer power and durability, the STX Hammer 500 stands out as a favorite among college-level defenders. This shaft is designed for players who aren’t afraid to use their physicality to dominate the game.
Distinctive Features of the STX Hammer 500:
- Extremely stiff carbon fiber construction
- Designed to withstand high-impact collegiate play
- Provides maximum power transfer for checks and ground balls
- Premium build quality justifies the higher price point
Why is the STX Hammer 500 particularly suited for collegiate-level play? The shaft’s exceptional stiffness and durability can handle the increased physicality of college lacrosse. It allows defenders to apply maximum force in their checks and ground ball battles without worrying about equipment failure.
Maverik Caliber: Metal Might for the Modern Defender
For players who prefer the traditional feel of a metal shaft but don’t want to compromise on performance, the Maverik Caliber offers an excellent solution. This shaft combines the durability of metal with modern design elements to create a formidable defensive tool.
Standout Characteristics of the Maverik Caliber:
- Metal construction for players who prefer a heavier feel
- Delivers powerful checks with added weight
- Traditional shaft shape with ergonomic considerations
- Durable enough for collegiate-level play
How does the Maverik Caliber compare to carbon fiber options in terms of performance? While it may be slightly heavier, the Caliber’s metal construction provides a familiar feel that many defenders prefer. The added weight can be an advantage in physical play, allowing for more impactful checks and improved leverage in ground ball situations.
The Role of Grip in Defensive Play
One often overlooked aspect of defensive lacrosse shafts is the grip. A good grip can significantly impact a player’s control and comfort during extended periods of play. Different manufacturers approach grip in various ways:
- Textured surfaces for improved hand traction
- Ergonomic shapes that fit naturally in the hands
- Sandpaper-like finishes for all-weather performance
- Smooth finishes that allow for easy sliding in transition play
How important is grip in wet conditions? In rainy or humid conditions, a shaft with good grip can be the difference between maintaining possession and losing the ball. Some players prefer to add tape for customized grip, while others rely on the shaft’s built-in texture.
Customization and Personalization
Many players like to personalize their defensive shafts to suit their playing style and preferences. This can involve:
- Adding tape for improved grip or to mark hand positions
- Customizing the butt end for better control or ground ball pickup
- Applying decals or paint for a unique look
- Cutting the shaft to a specific length (within regulation limits)
Is customization purely aesthetic, or can it improve performance? While personalization often has a visual component, many customizations can significantly impact performance. For example, strategically placed tape can improve grip in key areas, while a customized butt end can enhance control during face-offs or ground ball situations.
Maintenance and Longevity
Proper care and maintenance of a defensive lacrosse shaft can greatly extend its lifespan and maintain its performance. Here are some tips for keeping your shaft in top condition:
- Regularly inspect for cracks or damage
- Clean the shaft after each use to remove dirt and sweat
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Avoid leaving in extreme temperatures (e.g., in a hot car)
- Replace worn tape or grip materials as needed
How often should a defensive shaft be replaced? The lifespan of a shaft depends on various factors, including playing style, frequency of use, and quality of the shaft. On average, a well-maintained shaft can last 1-2 seasons for a high school player, while college players might need to replace their shafts more frequently due to increased intensity of play.
The Future of Defensive Lacrosse Shafts
As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see further innovations in defensive lacrosse shaft design. Some potential developments include:
- Advanced composite materials for even better strength-to-weight ratios
- Smart shafts with integrated sensors for performance tracking
- Improved shock absorption technologies for reduced arm fatigue
- Eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes
Will these technological advancements significantly impact the game of lacrosse? While the core skills and strategies of the game will likely remain the same, new technologies could provide players with valuable insights into their performance and potentially reduce the risk of injuries. However, it’s important to remember that equipment is just one part of the equation – dedication, practice, and teamwork will always be the foundation of success in lacrosse.
Best Defense Lacrosse Shafts For High School and College Players Lacrosse Video
Aug 3, 2017
The list of best lacrosse shafts for defensive players in high school and college contains a variety of carbon fiber options as well as some of the strongest strength to weight ratio metal defensive lacrosse shafts. All of these top defensive lacrosse shafts have one thing in common, they have been time tested by our the Pro’s here at La.com, and we think they will be hitting the fields in the hands of some of the best long stick middies and close play defensive players in the country. Lax.com has literally tested hundreds of these defense poles over the years and you can trust that we would only carry what we would be comfortable playing with ourselves.
(Good)
The Maverik Mission Blank makes out best defensive shaft list for the no frills strength and simplicity of design. This is the workhorse of the Maverik line and is perfect for high school level players that are starting to lay down some lumber The shaft includes an adjustable butt end (ABE) and no graphics.
It simply lets your play do all the talking. The Maverik Mission Blank defensive lacrosse shaft became a fast favorite with the LSM crowd last season.
The Epoch Dragonfly Integra 2 series defensive shafts have much of the same technology as their big brother, the Dragonfly 8 lacrosse shafts. The Epoch Dragonflye Integra 2 has an oval feeling pole with a tiny bit of grip. The carbon technology is great for younger high school players and guys clocking in at around 175-185 lbs. If you are bigger than that you likely need to step up a level or pick up a Epoch Dragonfly 8.
(Better)
The Nike Vapor Elite 2 defensive lacrosse shaft is one of the lightest of the bunch. If your game relies on speed and a quick stick, for $149 the Nike Vapor Elite 2 is a best selling option. This shaft weighs in a few ounces lighter and feels like a well balanced sword in your hands. Sharper edges and ultra-light feel are the story here.
The East Coast Dyes Carbon Pro defensive shaft came on the scene last year with a big bang.
Huge value in a very expensive upper end carbon market. We like this shaft because of its stiffness and lack of twisting. LSM’s love this defensive lacrosse shaft because it loads up nicely on shots and has great accuracy. At only $140 this is the big bang for the buck for high school players who want a high end carbon shaft that stings good on those slap checks.
(Best)
The Epoch Dragonfly 8 series of shafts. The Epoch Dragonfly 8 defense poles are the pinnacle of carbon technology for the highest level of player in the game. Widely recognized by LSM’s and D-poles who simly want the hardest hitting, most versatile pole on the field. These Dragonfly 8’s load up on checks and shots and can cause some serious damage, but are light enough to be used by youth defenders as well as strong enough for the college game. If you want the best… choose Epoch. These things crack down HARD, click here to see the full line of Dragonfly 8 shafts.
STX Hammer 500 defense shafts are used by the big boys in college lacrosse.
Super stiff carbon tech that hits the hardest of anything on the list. For $200 these are at the high end of the spectrum but deliver every penny of power and punch for guys who know what they are doing. These Hammer 500s are tough as nails and built to last.
The Maverik Caliber are in the same league as the Hammer but in a metal version. Again, one of the hardest hitting poles in the game. A tad extra weight that the bigger guys like to throw around with a vengeance. Decent value at $175 but at these price points, it’s not all about the money. This is a collegiate level metal pole that simply beats people down. Traditional shaft shape from Maverik fits well in the hands and gives the thumbs a nice place to rest on the rails of the shaft.
The Warrior Evo Pro Diamond shaft makes the list for the high performance and is the only member of the list that boasts the gritty sandy grit grip. Used by top college programs, these shafts are awesome in any weather and there is no need to bog them down with tape weight.
An awesome option for the high school and college guys to also have as their back up in foul weather. A favorite among wing faceoff guys to for the ground ball grip on the entire shaft.
You may also be interested in:
VIDEO: Will my lacrosse head fit on my lacrosse shaft?Best Lacrosse Heads For Defense & LSMFive Things You Need To Be Ready For Lacrosse Season
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So our ex-collegiate players here came up with this list of the best college and high school lacrosse shafts for the season based on their experience and knowledge of what experienced players need on the fields. The characteristics they looked for were weight, durability and toughness. No matter what shaft you choose on this list, you are getting the LOWEST GUARENTEED PRICE from Lax.com. Also please feel free to call us during EST business hours if you have any questions about which defensive lacrosse shaft is best for your age ability and position.
If you have any questions regarding which defensive lacrosse shaft is right for your player, give us a call at 855-255-5294 and speak to a real pro that can help.
Also be sure to check out the Lax.com mobile app. We post amazing deals here, and once you load in your contact information, you can check out lightning fast and get access to some amazing deals FIRST! See you on the fields.
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O’Neill’s MVP highlights 2023 Men’s Championship Awards
A panel of media members and team representatives voted to determine awards for the 2023 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship, announced at the conclusion of the event on Saturday.
Brennan O’Neill’s attacking contributions for the United States earned him the Most Valuable Player award. The full All-World Team can be found below with notes for each player, with the best positional awards also indicated.
MVP – Brennan O’Neill (USA)
O’Neill tied for the most points on the championship-winning United States squad with 20, coming on 15 goals and five assists. He also delivered five goals in the gold medal game when it counted most to sink Canada.
Best Attacker: Austin Staats (Haudenosaunee)
HAU vs AUS – 06.26.23
Staats led the Haudenosaunee offense with elite strength, savvy positioning, and pinpoint finishing. Through eight games, he totaled a tournament-high 38 points and 30 goals as the Haudenosaunee won the bronze medal. Staats is one of two players to land on the All-World team
Attack: Jeff Teat (Canada)
Teat was an instrumental part of Canada’s top-five offense, with six goals and 12 assists, tied for the fourth most in San Diego.
Attack: Shinya Tateishi (Japan)
Tateishi was the star attacker for Japan in its fifth place finish, upending a Pool A team in the final standings. He finished 32 points, the third most in the championship, with 21 goals and 11 assists in seven games.
Tateishi becomes the first player from Japan to land on an All-World Team.
Best Midfielder: Brennan O’Neill (USA)
Midfield: Michael Sowers (USA)
Sowers’ elusiveness was a key cog in the United States’ ability to control games, and he impacted the scoresheet with 12 goals and five assists as well.
Midfield: Josh Byrne (Canada)
Byrne was at the center of everything Canada did and showed again why he is one of the best players in the world with 12 goals and 10 assists.
Best Defender: Jacob Piseno (Haudenosaunee)
Piseno was the best defender on the Haudenosaunee, which was an improved unit that ranked in the top ten in the championship. He frequently was a matchup tonic for the other team’s best attacker. He is the first member of the Haudenosaunee to land on the All-World Team as a defender.
Defense: Graeme Hossack (Canada)
Hossack is the second player from the 2018 All-World Team to feature again in San Diego. He was the driving force behind Canada’s top-five defense which allowed a 25% shooting percentage to opponents and slowed down the Haudenosaunee’s offense twice.
Defense: JT Giles-Harris (USA)
World Lacrosse Men’s Championship Final Canada vs USA at Snapdragon Stadium July 1, 2023
Giles-Harris helped anchor the United States’ imperious defense, which allowed just four goals a game and slowed down Canada twice. The United States ranked third in total turnovers caused, and Giles-Harris had three himself.
Goalkeeper: Blaze Riorden (USA)
Riorden played 255 minutes in goal for the United States and had a 3.5 goals-against-average, which ranked second among goalkeepers, and a 60% save percentage which ranked third. He made eight saves in the gold medal game against Canada.
Sunflower headers SUNPROFI. The best prices, own production, service guarantee! Inagrotech.
Rowless header with a pull shaft, elongated lifters with adjustable inlet channel width, hydraulic reel drive, protective net, reinforced elongated scythe fingers, planetary-articulated scythe drive gear, with the ability to adjust the angle of inclination.
- The pulling shaft is installed under the shearing mechanism, the shaft performs the function of repulsing the stem, only the sunflower basket is brought to the shearing mechanism, which is picked up by the reel finger for further movement to the auger. It has serrated edges along the entire length of the shaft, preventing stem mass from entering the thresher and reducing the load on the combine. The pulling shaft is driven by a chain drive from the header auger;
- Elongated lifters with the ability to adjust the channel allow you to optimally adjust the header, regardless of the thickness of the stem;
- The reel has a spiral arrangement of fingers, which ensures a uniform supply of baskets to the auger. The fingers have a flat shape, which increases the contact area with the basket. The hydraulic drive allows you to adjust the rise and speed of rotation of the reel from the cab of the harvester without stopping the harvesting process.
- The protective grid prevents the basket from being thrown out of the header, minimizing losses;
- Reinforced and elongated scythe fingers optimize the supply of the stem mass to the cutting unit;
- The patented planetary articulated gearbox provides a smooth scythe run with a number of 1200 cycles per minute, which allows you to effectively separate the sunflower head even at high harvesting speeds.
- Adjusting the angle of inclination allows you to equally effectively harvest multi-tiered sunflower;
- An adjustable reel guard at the front prevents baskets from flying off the header. Having a large area of contact with the stem, it smoothly bends the stem mass in the direction of travel and prevents vibration and shedding of seeds;
- The gearbox belt drive is equipped with an automatic tensioner.
The harvester is available in four modifications: SP1070 – width of capture is 7 m; SP1270 – working width 8.4m, SP1470 – working width 9.8m; SP1670 – working width 11.2m. The harvester is aggregated on any type/brand of combines.
CAPACITY, up to
15.1
Ha/h
HARVEST SPEED, up to
13.5
km/h
WIDTH, up to
11.
2
m
Key Features
Lifters
Pull roller
Shear drive
Shear mechanism
Protective screen
Reel
Auger drive
Multi coupling
Protective mesh
Variable angle spacer
MODIFICATIONS AND COSTS
Mechanical steering lock “Garant BLOCK”
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- Mechanical steering lock “Garant BLOCK”
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Garant Blok is the market leader in mechanical anti-theft locks.
For twenty-five years, drivers have chosen it as the protection against theft of their cars. Ease of use, a high level of criminal resistance and an affordable price – these are the reasons for the trust of motorists.
How it works
The clutch is mounted on the steering shaft with screws. A stopper is inserted into the clutch and, in the closed state, rests against the steering column elements, blocking the possibility of turning the steering wheel. Unlocking the stopper is carried out by a reliable secrecy mechanism.
Anti-theft lock “Garant Blok”
Stopper
It is made of hardened steel and has a thickness of 30 mm, which allows protecting the structure from drilling and sawing with power tools. It has several protection elements:
- steel canopy that protects the coupling hooks from sawing
- security mechanism
- hardened steel trap disc to protect the trap mechanism from drilling
- tight connection with the sleeve, which makes it impossible to knock out the stopper with a chisel
- Groove on the latch that rests against the protrusion on the coupling, protects against opening by bumping and probe
- Hardened safety disc over the latch that breaks when attempting to drill out, locking the latch in the closed position
- High hardened tungsten carbide pins located in the eccentric shaft to protect against drilling
Security mechanism
Garant steering shaft locks can be equipped with two security mechanisms.
You can learn more here – Comparison of secret mechanisms.
Coupling
Consisting of two steel caps. Does not limit the functionality of passive safety systems. It has design features that increase the degree of protection:
- coupling covers have a high degree of hardening, which makes it possible to protect against rough mechanical impact and drilling of screws
- in the closed position, the stop completely covers the screws
- Protective disk made of hardened steel, inserted into the top cover of the coupling and blocking access to the stop elements connected to the coupling
- Coupling galvanized for corrosion protection
- The inner diameter of the hole in the coupling is 0.3 mm smaller than the diameter of the steering shaft, thus, when tightening the screws, a preload is formed that prevents the coupling from turning on the shaft
- screws have a maximum strength class of 12. 9so that the coupling can be tightened to the correct torque
- Couplings with anti-clamping sleeves are installed on the steering shafts with a telescopic system, maintaining the passive safety of the car. Thus, it turns out to achieve an ideal balance between the hardness and ductility of the metal, which allows protecting the “Garant Blok” from all types of mechanical stress.
Product durability and versatility
- bollard has a service life of more than 10 years
- 5 year warranty
- withstands temperature fluctuations from -45°C to +85°C and with proper care (periodic washing of the lock part with WD-40 cleaner) is able to cope with work in an aggressive environment
- for ease of use, the stopper is equipped with a flexible PVC handle that is not exposed to heat or freezing and does not slip in the owner’s hand
- more than 300 car models, from budget to luxury, are equipped with the Garant Block lock, which makes it a universal anti-theft tool for most car owners 3
9so that the coupling can be tightened to the correct torque