Choosing the Right Pocket Type for Your Playing Style
When stringing your Mark 2V lacrosse head, one of the most important customizations you can make is selecting the best pocket type for your position and playing style. The optimal pocket setup allows you to maximize ball control, passing, catching, and shooting with the 2V head.
For middies who handle the ball a lot, a mid to low pocket is recommended. This allows excellent hold on the ball during cradling and provides outstanding control for quick sticks and accurate feeds. A U-shaped pocket is also popular for middies, as it gives superb ball retention while still allowing reasonably easy release on passes. Some players even opt for a slight modified U that flares out a bit at the top, merging the control of a U with the quick release of a mid-pocket.
Attackmen generally prefer a little more whip and velocity on their pockets. A mid-low pocket with a defined channel yields the best of both worlds – great hold while cradling paired with added velocity on passes and shots. Adding a straight shooter at the throat of the head ramps up ball speed even more. Attackmen who want maximum hold can string up a deep modified U, but may sacrifice some passing and shooting performance.
For faceoff specialists, stringing up a double traditional pocket provides exceptional ball control during the clamp and spin motions on draws. The double trads allow adjusting the pocket depth more precisely to match individual preferences. Some faceoff middies like a little more whip on their setups and opt for a single traditional with a deep channel instead.
Regardless of position, spend some time experimenting with pocket types to find your ideal setup. The right configuration tailored exactly to your game is crucial to getting the most out of the versatile Mark 2V head. Don’t be afraid to tweak patterns and re-string repeatedly until the pocket feels perfect. With the right mesh and stringing adjustments, you can customize your Mark 2V into the optimal head for your playing style.
Experimenting with Stringing Techniques on the Mark 2V
When stringing up your Mark 2V head, don’t be afraid to experiment with different stringing techniques to optimize the head’s performance. With so many different stringing methods and patterns out there, you can endlessly tweak your setup until you find the perfect configuration for your game. Here are some of the many techniques you can test out in your stringing quest:
Interlocks vs. traditionals – Interlock sidewall stringing provides excellent overall pocket consistency and makes it easier to maintain the pocket shape after heavy use. Traditionals offer more defined pocket channels and allow more customization of pocket depth. Try combining the two patterns or alternating interlocks and traditionals.
placement – Placing shooters in different configurations affects release speed, hold, and shot accuracy. A straight shooter provides excellent power, while a staggered shooter setup increases whip and velocity. Some players use a U-shooter for quick release while adding hold.
Pocket depth – Deeper pockets offer superior ball retention while shallower setups provide quicker release. Test out different depths to find your ideal cradle and release point. Mid-low pockets give a nice balance.
Mesh patterns – Hard vs. soft mesh, different diamond sizes, different brands, and different mesh prep techniques all impact the overall feel. Softer mesh pockets tend to bag out more over time but have increased hold. Play around with mesh variables to customize feel.
Sidewall hole spacing – Wider spacing yields deeper pockets and more defined channels, while tight spacing provides shallower setups. Spacing can be adjusted based on pocket type and depth preferences.
Top string – Altering the top string shape will impact the scoop and release. Test out different top string configurations to optimize the scoop and fine tune the pocket channel.
Take the time to methodically experiment with all of these stringing elements when breaking in your Mark 2V. Don’t rush the process – you may have to string it up 5 or 6 times before finding your ideal pocket. The ability to customize your setup is one of the great benefits of a versatile head like the 2V.
Focusing on Ball Retention and Quick Releases
One of the keys to maximizing the performance of the Mark 2V head is focusing your stringing on dialing in superior ball retention while still allowing quick stick passes and shots. The right configuration provides excellent hold on outside shots while cradling, crucial for middies and attackmen who handle the ball frequently. But you also want the ball to release cleanly on quick stick attempts and feeds. It’s a delicate balance, but the 2V’s versatile head shape lets you customize your pocket to achieve it.
To promote ball retention, a mid-low pocket with a defined channel is ideal. This provides a “sweet spot” in the pocket that cradles the ball securely. You can further increase hold by using soft mesh and a U-shooter setup. Some players also like adding another lace up top to define the channel even more.
To allow quick releases, focus on keeping the mid-low pocket relatively shallow and make sure you don’t overtie the sidewalls. Overtying creates too much whip and can lead to increased throwing errors. Using a nylon shooter instead of leather also promotes faster release. Keeping the top string on the loose side is another trick for quick sticks.
As you can see, optimizing hold vs release with the 2V requires finding the right balance through stringing adjustments. Start by stringing up a mid-low pocket and make gradual tweaks from there, evaluating the feel on cradles, feeds, and shots. You may need to re-string the head a few times to find your personal sweet spot. But once you dial in the right configuration, you’ll have excellent control on possession while still being able to rip off lightning quick releases when needed.
The key is resisting the urge to overtie the sidewalls or make the pocket too deep in an effort to increase hold. This usually results in slower release and decreased passing accuracy. Take your time finding that ideal midpoint – the 2V rewards players who fine-tune pocket balance and control.
Optimizing Sidewall Stringing for Superior Scooping
One of the key benefits of the Mark 2V head is its excellent scooping ability, making ground balls and faceoffs much easier. With the right stringing adjustments, you can optimize the sidewalls to take your 2V’s scooping to an even higher level. Focusing on sidewall pattern, hole spacing, and pocket depth will let you customize your setup for lightning quick ground ball grabs.
Many players opt for an interlock sidewall pattern on the 2V to promote consistency across the head for easier scooping. Interlocks maintain their shape better than traditionals after heavy use. You can either do a full interlock pattern or just interlock the lower sidewalls while using traditionals up top – this adds more definition to the channel.
Adjusting sidewall hole spacing is another easy way to improve scooping. In general, tighter hole spacing along the lower sidewalls will allow the head to hug the ground more tightly on ground balls. This prevents the ball from ducking under the head during pickups. Just be careful not to overtie the sidewalls too much or you’ll sacrifice quick release.
The pocket depth also impacts scooping. A mid-low pocket is ideal for scooping as it provides enough slack in the lower mesh to dig under ground balls effectively. Avoid high pockets that lift the ball off the ground.
With the right adjustments, you can take the Mark 2V’s already superior scooping abilities to the next level. Focus on an interlock sidewall pattern, strategic hole spacing, and a mid-low pocket depth. Test out a few different stringing permutations until you find the right balance of scooping ease and crisp release. Dialing in your 2V’s scooping gives you a major advantage on ground balls.
Adding a Straight Shooter for Power and Control
One of the most effective ways to boost the performance of the Mark 2V head is to add a straight shooter stringing configuration. The straight shooter provides two key benefits – increased shot speed and passing velocity along with enhanced ball control. This versatile setup is ideal for attackmen who want more whip without sacrificing ball retention.
The straight shooter runs vertically from the throat of the head directly to the top of the scoop. This concentrates the pocket and defines the channel even more, allowing superior ball control during cradling. The defined channel also adds consistency to passing and shooting mechanics, improving accuracy.
In addition, the straight vertical shooter adds a ton of extra whip on shots, greatly improving velocity. When combined with a mid-low pocket depth, you get excellent hold on outside cradling paired with lightning quick release when shooting. The straight configuration also opens up the ball’s release point compared to other shooters like a U.
Adding a nylon shooter rather than traditional leather/gut increases the ball speed even more. Some players also like to double up with two straight shooters for maximum velocity. Just be careful not to overdo it – two stiff nylons can decrease passing accuracy at the expense of shot speed.
Stringing up a straight shooter takes your 2V head to the next level, providing the versatility that makes this head so popular. Work it into your next stringing job to see noticeable improvements in passing, shooting, and overall ball control. The straight shooter truly maximizes the 2V’s capabilities.
Using a Mid/Low Pocket to Increase Hold
One of the most effective ways to maximize ball control with the Mark 2V head is to string up a mid to low pocket depth. The mid/low pocket provides the ideal blend of superior ball retention during cradling along with quick release for passing and shooting. This versatile pocket configuration is especially popular with midfielders who handle the ball frequently.
The mid/low setup strikes the perfect balance between a deep pocket for excellent hold and a shallow pocket for fast release. When paired with the right stringing, you get the increased cradle control of a deeper pocket without sacrificing throwing velocity or accuracy.
A mid/low pocket also maintains its shape better over time compared to a very deep setup. As the mesh breaks in, the pocket loses some depth but stays within the ideal range rather than getting too shallow. This saves you from having to restring as frequently to maintain the feel.
In addition to more hold, the mid/low pocket focuses the release point higher in the head. This leads to better passing accuracy since the ball comes out at a consistent spot every time. A deep pocket can wander lower or higher, affecting consistency.
For the best blend of enhanced ball control along with crisp passing and shooting, a mid to low pocket depth can’t be beat. As you string and experiment with your Mark 2V pocket, focus on maintaining that ideal mid/low sweet spot. Your holds, feeds, and rips will immediately become more consistent.
Stringing a U-Shaped Pocket for Quick Release
The Mark 2V lacrosse head lends itself well to a U-shaped pocket stringing configuration, providing excellent ball retention paired with quick release on feeds and shots. Middies who handle the ball frequently often opt for the U-pocket setup since it offers such a versatile blend of control and release.
The defining characteristic of the U-pocket is the sidewall strings that go straight across the head 2-3 diamonds down from the top, creating a defined U shape. This concentrates the pocket’s sweet spot, allowing superior control during cradling. The ball sits nicely in the curve of the “U”, maintaining ball feel.
Despite the increased hold, the U shape also promotes quick stick passing and fast shots. The lateral top strings that create the “U” don’t overtie the pocket, keeping the channel open without sacrificing ball retention. This gives you the best of both worlds.
When stringing up a U-pocket on the 2V, use soft mesh along with a nylon shooter. This combination maximizes the pocket’s hold and definition. Make sure not to string the lateral U-strings too tight or you’ll end up with more of a modified mid-pocket setup.
Middies looking for the control of a mid-low pocket with the quick release of a shallow pocket should definitely try out stringing a U-shape on their next Mark 2V. The versatility of the U makes it the perfect match for the 2V head.
Adding Whip for Increased Velocity
One of the best ways to maximize the Mark 2V’s versatile head shape is to add extra whip into your stringing for increased velocity on shots, passes, and clears. The right adjustments give you superior ball speed without compromising overall pocket control and feel.
The most effective method for adding velocity is integrating a nylon shooter string. The nylon material provides more rebound force than traditional materials like leather or gut. This translates to noticeably increased passing and shooting speed.
You can also add more whip by using multiple shooters in an H-pattern or V-pattern. Two straight nylon shooters are a great way to ramp up velocity. Some players even use a triple threat configuration with three shooters, but this can reduce accuracy.
Adjusting the sidewall stringing is another technique for increased whip. Wider spacing between holes creates more pronounced pocket channels, which boosts ball speed. Just don’t overtie the sidewalls too much or you’ll end up with poor release.
Experiment with all of these stringing tweaks to fine tune the velocity you want. The versatility of the 2V head lets you customize both control and whip to match your playing style. Crank up the speed for faster splits, harder shots, and maximum clearing power.
Trying an Interlock Sidewall for Consistency
One way to optimize the performance of the Mark 2V head is to string interlock sidewalls instead of traditional sidewalls. The interlock pattern promotes excellent pocket consistency across the entire head for superior ball control and release.
Traditional sidewalls often “bag out” over time as the excess stringing settles. This can cause the pocket shape to warp, affecting passing and shooting mechanics. Interlocks maintain their shape much better, preserving a consistent channel and release point.
Interlocks also allow fine tuning the pocket depth more precisely. By adjusting the spacing between interlocks, you can control exactly how deep or shallow the pocket sits. This level of customization is harder with traditionals.
For players who struggle with throwing consistency, switching to an interlock pattern on your 2V can help refine mechanics. When the pocket warps less over time, you can build muscle memory for passing and shooting more easily.
Some players use a hybrid approach, mixing interlocks on the lower sidewalls with traditionals up top to define the channel more. You can also alternate between interlocks and traditionals across the head. Get creative and see what works best for your game.
Test out interlocks on your next 2V stringing for improved consistency across the entire head. Your passes, feeds, and rips will immediately become more accurate.
Using a Double Traditional Pocket
One unique stringing adjustment that can take the Mark 2V head to the next level is integrating a double traditional pocket setup. The double traditionals provide unmatched customization of pocket depth and shape for specialized positions like faceoff middies.
Instead of a single row of traditional sidewall strings, a double traditional configuration uses two rows down each sidewall. The extra row of strings allows fine tuning the pocket depth more precisely to match individual preferences.
For faceoff specialists, this level of pocket customization is crucial. FOGOs can dial in the exact depth needed for maximizing clamps and control during faceoff draw moves. A standard single traditional can’t adjust the depth with the same precision.
The double traditional also maintains its shape better over time compared to a single row. The added sidewall stringing reinforces the channel, preventing excessive bagging out from use.
When stringing up doubles, interlock the two rows together to maximize consistency across the head. Use soft mesh and a straight shooter to further enhance control.
While not for everyone, the double traditional setup is a must-try for faceoff middies looking to get an edge at the X. The unmatched customization takes your 2V stringing to the next level.
Testing Diamond Top String Shapes
An area of stringing on the Mark 2V head that can drastically impact feel and performance is the top string configuration. By testing out different diamond top string shapes, you can customize the scoop and release point to optimize the head.
The most common top string style is a triple triangle top with two diamonds. This provides good overall pocket definition. However, some players find the dual diamonds constrict release too much, especially if also using a straight shooter.
Trying a single diamond adjusts the release point higher in the head, resulting in a quicker release. This setup also widens the top opening for easier catching.
Conversely, some players add a 3rd or even 4th diamond to further focus the release channel. This enhances hold but can slow down release speed.
An alternative is an H-pattern with a zig-zag or alternating diamonds across the top. This creates nice pocket definition while still allowing fast feed and shot release.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with top string shapes as you dial in your Mark 2V stringing. Subtle adjustments make noticeable differences in ball control, hold, and release speed. Finding your ideal top string setup is crucial for optimizing performance with this versatile head.
Shaping the Scoop for Ground Balls
One often overlooked stringing adjustment on the Mark 2V head that can provide a big performance advantage is customizing the scoop shape. Optimizing the scoop makes ground balls and faceoffs much easier by improving ground clearance.
Out of the box, most scoops have a flat shape across the top. However, by stringing the top to create a downward curve at the center, you form a scoop that digs under ground balls better.
To create the curved shape, string the final diamond tighter in the center of the top string. Pull the knots downward and finish the top string attachment along the sidewalls lower. This tension shapes the curve.
You can also tweak the sidewall stringing to enhance the curved shape. Adding an interlock or two right under the scoop keeps the curve from straightening back out.
For faceoff specialists, don’t forget to taper the scoop shape from side to side. A centered curve helps lift clean wins, while tapered curves make roll moves easier since you can dig from multiple angles.
While simple, optimizing the Mark 2V’s scoop takes ground ball control to the next level. Make sure to pay attention to top stringing and shape on your next stringing job. The improvement on ground
balls is immediate.
Adding Stringing Dampeners
A small stringing tweak that can make a big difference in the feel and performance of the Mark 2V head is integrating lacrosse dampeners or stringing silencers. Adding dampeners reduces annoying rattle and vibration to provide a cleaner release.
Dampeners work by silencing the meshes tendency to vibrate against itself after catching passes or cradling. By reducing mesh vibration, you get a more consistent pocket feel and improved ball control. The dampeners also cut down on annoying “chatter” noise while moving.
Place dampeners at key areas along the sidewall strings where vibrations originate. Popular spots are 1-2 diamonds above the bottom, along the shooters, and right below the scoop where the top strings attach. Avoid overloading the pocket with too many.
Silicone and rubber dampeners work best to reduce vibration while not adding extra weight. Stay away from heavier dampeners that could unbalance the head. Make sure dampeners slide freely to prevent locking up the pocket.
While a minor detail, adding 2-3 high quality dampeners transforms the feel and performance of the 2V head. You’ll immediately notice the exceptional pocket consistency and ball control improvement. Reduce annoying rattle for cleaner fundamentals.
Customizing Pocket Depth
One of the most important adjustments you can make when stringing the Mark 2V head is customizing the overall pocket depth. The ability to fine tune pocket depth is crucial for optimizing individual hold, release, and overall feel.
Start by determining your ideal depth based on position and preferences. Attackmen generally prefer mid-low pockets for a blend of hold and release. Middies may opt for a slightly deeper pocket for superior ball control. FOGOs like the deepest pockets possible for maximum ball retention at the faceoff X.
Once you settle on an ideal depth, make stringing adjustments to match it. Traditionally strung pockets allow the most depth customization through sidewall hole spacing. Wider spacing equals deeper pockets. Interlocks provide adjustment by varying knot spacing.
Mesh selection also impacts depth. Premium soft meshes like Throne, Hero, and Money Mesh stretch deeper over time compared to harder meshes like Semi-Soft. Account for break-in when choosing mesh type.
Don’t neglect top strings either – more defined diamonds focus the channel lower. Shooter placement and material adjusts hold at the throat.
Take your time gradually dialing in your perfect pocket depth on the 2V. The ability to customize depth makes this head so versatile across positions. Find your ideal blend of control and release through depth tweaks.
Re-Stringing Periodically
One final stringing tip for keeping your Mark 2V head performing at its best is to re-string the pocket periodically. Over time, even the best meshes and sidewall patterns will bag out and lose shape. Re-stringing restores the optimal pocket configuration.
Plan on re-stringing your 2V at least once per season, especially if you are a high volume shooter or take a ton of reps. The more use, the faster pockets break down. If you play year-round, twice per year is ideal.
Don’t wait for the pocket to completely bag out before re-stringing. At the first sign of losing shape and depth, it’s time to restore it. You want to preserve the sweet spot, not have to fully re-shape an exaggerated pocket.
When re-stringing, use it as an opportunity to tweak and adjust issues with the previous pattern. Did it lack hold? Improve scooping? Adjust to perfect it.
Carry lessons over from pocket wear patterns too. If one sidewall or diamond wears faster, compensate on the re-string to prevent a recurrence.
Consistent re-stringing ensures your Mark 2V keeps performing optimally for seasons to come. Don’t forget this critical part of maximizing the versatile head’s playability over the long haul.