Strategies for Stringing the Rebel O for Maximum Ball Control
When stringing the ECD Rebel Offense lacrosse head, one of the key areas to focus on is dialing in the pocket for optimal ball control. As a versatile midfield and attack option, having a Rebel O that truly maximizes possession on dodges, feeds and shots can give players a real edge. So what are some of the best techniques for getting the most control out of your Rebel Offense setup?
First and foremost, pay close attention to pocket depth. A pocket that is too shallow will make it easy for checks to dislodge the ball, while one that is too deep runs the risk of drastically slowing down your release. Finding that sweet spot – typically around a mid-pocket – will let you carry and cradle smoothly while still being able to fire quicker passes and shots. Just be wary of over-customizing depth based on position; a general mid-pocket is ideal for the flexibility of the Rebel O.
You’ll also want to use a favorable shooting string setup. Adding a nylon shooting string is a great way to enhance hold while not sacrificing too much quickness. Alternatively, you could go for a hybrid nylon-to-leather 2-shooting string sequence to get the best of both worlds – hold up top from the nylon, and snap down low from the leather. And as always, double up the shooting strings and keep them tightened close to the sidewalls for added ball retention.
Don’t overlook the effect of your sidewall stringing either. Utilizing a pita-pita or a modified pita-pita sidewall pattern with a double up can help pinch the walls in just enough for excellent hold, without making the pocket too stiff. Try dropping the top string, knotting the diamonds tight, or adding some skip loops to further dial in the sweet spot of hold versus release.
Lastly, focus on getting the right distribution of nylon, mesh and leather in your stringing. Mixing up the materials in the midsection and lower parts of the pocket gives you the ability to customize both hold and break-in time. Don’t be afraid to experiment – the ECD Rebel O was built as a versatile stringer’s dream.
Achieving the Optimal Scoop and Face Shape Through Stringing
One of the most overlooked yet important aspects of stringing the ECD Rebel Offense lacrosse head is properly shaping the scoop and face. Dialing these in can directly translate to improved ground ball pickups, cleaner catches on the run, and more accurate passing and shooting.
When it comes to the scoop, you’ll want to string it to have a nice rounded shape. This lets you get under ground balls more easily for quick control. Start by stringing the top string in an upward facing U-shape, running it all the way into the scoop. Pull it semi-tight and knot it off-center. From there, focus on defining the shape with your nylon and sidewall strings, gradually tightening from the center outwards and keeping the top string knots flush in the channels. You can also try dropping a couple diamonds within the scoop to enhance its profile.
For shaping the face, balance and consistency are key. Make sure you evenly space vertical nylons from sidewall to sidewall, with less definition toward the center. Keeping them flat and tight will optimize the catching plane across the entire head. Integrate some slight angles as you string toward the lower sidewalls to support cradling. Also be mindful of the horizontal diamonds and make sure they gradually widen into a centered, rounded pocket – no hourglass shaping.
Don’t neglect the effect of shooters either. Placing your first nylon straight across at the very base of the throat helps define the lower face shape for stability. Running a double up the center with a high nylon-to-leather ratio maintains that optimal flat and rounded shape through the heart of the pocket. And finally, incorporate a U-shaped end cap shooter right at the scoop to finish defining the top of the face.
With the right techniques, getting a clean and consistent face shape and scoop will really take your Rebel O’s performance to the next level. As with any stringing, don’t be afraid to tweak and experiment until you find that perfect sweet spot of control. Proper shape directly enhances handling, so dial it in and let your game benefit.
Tips for Pinching the Sidewall to Improve Accuracy
One of the most effective ways to get more performance out of your ECD Rebel Offense setup is by focusing on pinching in the sidewalls through strategic stringing. Taking the time to dial this in properly can really optimize the head’s overall accuracy, especially on passes and shots.
Start by planning out a sidewall pattern that incorporates a number of pinched diamonds. The pita-pita tends to work very well for getting a firm pinch around the circumference of the sidewalls. Make sure to double up the strings and keep the knots tight. You can also experiment with modified versions, such as a triple-pita or incorporating some skip loops to amplify definition in key spots.
Don’t forget to pay close attention to the sidewall interlocks too. Integrate hard double-interlocks down the entire length of the sidewalls, ideally with matching color stringing. Pull each one taut as you place it within the diamond pairs. This keeps continuous tension and prevents unwanted expansion of the sidewalls.
In the scoop, try dropping your top string down a hole or two and focusing on diamonds that run horizontally rather than vertically. This will let you achieve more of an inward pinch right from the onset. Carry that diagonal orientation throughout the upper sidewalls as well to maintain compression top-to-bottom.
Lastly, experiment with dropping a sidewall string on each side and running it straight across the bottom of the face. This anchors the sidewalls in place and provides added stability for the lowest part of the pocket. You can also then work it into your desired shooting string placement to kill two birds with one stone.
With the ECD Rebel Offense’s flexible shape, you have ample room to pinch the sidewalls more than usual. Take advantage of this to really optimize the accuracy and enhance the overall feel. Don’t sacrifice too much hold though – find that ideal balance of customization to tailor it to your exact playing style.
Customizing Pocket Depth Based on Player Position and Style
One of the best things about stringing up an ECD Rebel Offense lacrosse head is the ability to fully customize the pocket depth based on your playing style and position. Taking the time to match the pocket to your needs can really maximize control and feel.
For midfielders, consider going with more of a mid-to-deep pocket depth. This adds hold for securing passes on the run and creating a stable cradle. Aim for around a 3-4 diamond drop down from the top, and focus on widening through the center diamonds to form a smooth, rounded shape. Widen slowly from the throat and avoid an exaggerated hourglass look.
Attackmen will benefit more from a mid-pocket with quick release. Keep the drop more around 2-3 diamonds down from the top string and use less graduated whip shaping through the center. Consider a slightly tighter channel up top and a leather shooter down low for ideal hold and snap.
For all-around utility players, go right down the middle with a classic mid-pocket with a 3 diamond drop. Balance hold and release by pairing a nylon top string with a leather shooter in a double setup. Keep the pocket rounded and centered without too much definition either up top or down low.
No matter what you settle on depth-wise, make sure to keep an eye on symmetry across the top diamonds. Any side-to-side skewing in the top string placement will throw off the release and can lead to inaccurate passes and shots. Take your time and dial it in.
Don’t forget to factor in playing style too. If you tend to cradle higher, bias the depth higher; if you play with a lower cradle, go a touch deeper. The beauty of the Rebel O is you have the room to match the pocket precisely to your needs. So whether you love ripping low-to-highs from up top or sailing tight passes from X, you can customize the best setup for your game.
Maximizing Hold and Ball Retention with Shooting Strings
Properly stringing the shooting strings is one of the most impactful ways to maximize overall hold and ball control with the ECD Rebel Offense lacrosse head. Integrating the right setup with optimal placement can make a world of difference in securing possession.
First off, always go with a double shooting setup. The two-string combination adds consistency and enhances hold power across the entire upper half of the pocket. Ideal materials to use are nylon up top for hold and leather/vita nyl on bottom for quick release. An all-nylon setup will hold well but sacrifice some snap.
When installing the shooting strings, keep them tight to the sidewalls without pinching. This supports stability all the way into the periphery for a wider hold zone. It also lets you maintain definition in the channel without collapsing the shape. But don’t over-crank them either – leave a little wiggle room for adjusting tension as the pocket breaks in.
The placement of the bottom shooter is also critical. Keep it low, right around the bottom of the throat to integrate it into the top of the pocket face. Any higher and it won’t adequately support hold throughout cradle motion. For the top string, look to place it 2-3 diamonds down from the actual top – any lower defeats the purpose of optimizing hold.
Don’t neglect maintenance either. Keep a close eye on shooting string tension and continually tune it to combat natural loosening over time. Always replace them at first signs of fraying for optimal consistency and performance. A crisp set of shooters truly maximizes the potential of the Rebel O.
With the right techniques, you can achieve rock-solid ball control with this head. Dial in that double setup, pay attention to placement, material selection and tension, and maintain it properly over time. Your cradling, passing and shooting consistency will reach the next level.
Strategies for Adding Whip and Quick Release
While the ECD Rebel Offense lacrosse head is designed to provide excellent ball control, you can further customize the pocket to add more whip and quick release for boosting shooting velocity and precision.
One of the keys is strategic placement of your sidewall strings. Use an interlocked pattern like the pita-pita to pinch the walls, but focus the knots toward the bottom half of the head. This will make the top Diamonds wider for increased hold while letting the bottom portion expand for more flexion and velocity.
Integrating a V shooting string can also help add whip. Run the V from the sidewall across the diamonds at around 4 diamonds down. Angle the legs moderately – too vertical and they defeat the purpose. Use a soft nylon/leather material and moderate tension. Experiment with knots along the legs to fine-tune the whip sweet spot.
For the main shooting strings, go with a three-layer setup. Top nylon for hold, middle semi-soft nylon for linking the pocket, bottom leather for release. This marries performance. Don’t over-crank tension – let the strings move a bit while keeping definition. Placement is key too – keep that bottom shooter low near the throat.
Mesh and other soft string materials are your friends as well when dialing in quick release. Use mesh across the diamonds in the lower pocket for increased stretch and liveliness. Integrate soft materials like Type 4s on key laterals too. Just maintain structural integrity up top with firmer interlocks and nylons.
Lastly, keep an eye on pocket depth. Generally a mid-depth is optimal, but you can play with drops and graduations to shape release points across the head. Add a touch more V-shape with a lower drop point for expediting release without sacrificing hold up top.
With the right balance of materials, strategic placement, and structural shaping, you can customize your ECD Rebel Offense pocket to have both excellent control and added velocity for dominating the field. Experiment until you unlock that perfect quick-release+hold combo that fits your game.
Stringing Setups Optimized for Different Types of Shots
One of the best aspects of the ECD Rebel Offense is the versatility it provides to customize stringing for excelling at different shot types. Whether you love ripping sidearms or floating top corners, you can dial in a pocket optimized for your go-to shot selection.
For heavy crank shooters, focus on a mid-pocket with a wider channel up top and dual nylon shooting strings. This gives maximum hold and control when winding up. Add a little extra whip by gradually widening the diamonds moving down toward the throat. Just be sure to keep the scoop rounded for clean releases.
Finesse shooters who pick corners will benefit from a slightly deeper pocket with a V-nylon setup. The centered ball position and added pinch give accuracy while the V-release provides touch onplacement shots. Aim for softer materials in the pocket for feel and increased liveliness off the stick.
For quick stick artists, go shallower and build in a quicker, unstructured release point low in the pocket. Use a soft leather or nylon/leather shooter down low and avoid over-defining the channel. Keep sidewalls moderately pinched but not too stiff.
Dodgers who sweep across the crease need a deeper V-pocket with whip focused on the bottom corners. Integrate a U-nylon at the base of the scoop to expedite sidearm releases. Allow more movement through diamonds in the lower pocket for added velocity during lateral sweeps.
No matter your shot tendencies, the ECD Rebel O provides the stringing flexibility to match. Focus on pocket shape, depth, shooting strings, and diamond materials that cater best to your individual style. With the proper adjustments, you can have a Rebel in your stick that brings precision, power, and touch to every kind of shot in your arsenal.
Integrating ECD’s Torque Lock Technology for Extra Ball Control
One of the most innovative features of the ECD Rebel Offense lacrosse head is the integration of Torque Lock technology. Properly dialing this in provides players with a big advantage in overall ball control and security.
Torque Lock refers to the sidewall stringing channels built into the lower sidewalls of the head. This allows you to essentially “drop” the sidewalls down and in, anchoring them directly in line with the bottom of the pocket.
To activate Torque Lock, thread a sidewall string through the bottom channel and tie it off at the very base of the throat. Pull it semi-tight across the bottom of the face. Mimic this on the opposite sidewall. You can then incorporate these strings into your shooting string placement.
This simple yet effective trick pinches the lower sidewalls inward for excellent stiffness and structure. It also pulls the bottom of the pocket downward and back toward the throat, increasing the depth and hold zone.
Be sure to integrate Torque Lock on each sidewall in line with the angle of your shooting strings. Too much downward tension may overly-flatten the pocket, so find the right balance of pinch and shape.
With this innovative tech, ECD gives you an integrated tool for enhanced hold and control. The channels keep the sidewalls and pocket base locked in, securing ball possession and centering cradle motion. Make sure to take full advantage by properly incorporating Torque Lock in your Rebel O stringing.
Fine-tuning the Top String for Hold and Release
Optimizing the top string is one of the most important yet commonly overlooked aspects of dialing in an ECD Rebel Offense pocket. Taking the time to really fine-tune the top string piece by piece can make a world of difference in balancing hold and release.
When anchoring the top string, consider an upward facing U-shape around the scoop to promote quick release across different shooting planes. Secure it off-center along the scoop wall with a tight knot buried into the sidewall. This centers tension and initiates proper shaping.
Gradually build in a rounded contour as you work laterally across the head. Alternate knots between the sidewall and channel to lightly pinch the scoop for stability. Keep the knots tight and threads flat along each diamond.
Once you reach the center of the head, avoid harsh angles and evenly space the diamonds moving downward. Tensioning is critical – too loose sacrifices hold, too tight hinders release. Find that sweet spot through incremental adjustments.
When tying off the opposite end, mirror the off-center anchor knot in the scoop wall to balance tension. Always maintenance knots and replace fraying threads promptly to preserve hold integrity over time.
A clean top string optimizes 50% of the pocket, so take the extra time to get it right. Tension, angles and spacing are all paramount. Get each piece nailed down through methodical adjusting and consistent upkeep for the ultimate setup.
Achieving Optimal Balance Between Hold and Quick Release
Finding the right equilibrium between ball hold and quick release is one of the biggest keys to maximizing the versatility of the ECD Rebel Offense head. With the proper stringing adjustments, you can strike that ideal balance for excelling in all facets of the game.
Start by considering overall pocket depth. A mid-pocket around 2-3 diamonds down from the top string provides a great jumping off point. This midpoint area naturally integrates both hold up top and release capability down low.
Your shooting string setup is crucial as well. A nylon-to-leather sequence enhances hold up top while still allowing snap on shots. You can also incorporate a third soft nylon shooter in the middle for linking the pocket. Keeping shooters tight to the sidewalls optimizes hold across the width of the head.
Don’t overlook the effect of sidewall stringing either. Try integrating some skips into a pita-pita pattern to widen the upper diamonds while pinching the lower sidewalls. This combination really maximizes hold while still allowing flexibility in the heart of the pocket.
String selection also factors in. Use firmer materials up top on laterals and interlocks, then gradually transition to softer nylons, leathers and mesh moving downward. This builds structured hold up top while incorporating release down low.
Finding the right combo is a game of intricate adjustments. With the Rebel O’s versatility, you have ample room to optimize pocket performance. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you strike that perfect setup tailored to your game.
Customizing Sidewall Stringing Patterns for Enhanced Handling
The way you string the sidewalls of the ECD Rebel Offense head can have a big impact on overall ball handling and feel. Taking the time to customize the sidewall pattern is an easy way to tailor the pocket to your style.
For players who like added hold, the pita-pita pattern is a great starting point. This interlocked, pinched sequence helps grip the ball firm around the rails. Double up the sidewalls and integrate tightly-pulled knots for optimal stiffness without compromising shape.
To boost hold even further, you can experiment with modified versions like the triple-pita or the pita-x. Adding well-placed skip loops is another way to pinch targeted diamonds. Just maintain balance and be wary of over-defining the channel.
For quicker release and enhanced flexibility, try widening out the sidewall pattern. A basic 1-si or 1-si-1 sequence leaves more room for pocket expansion and liveliness. You can also focus the knots toward the lower sidewalls only, keeping the tops more open.
Don’t forget to adjust the amount of pinch by tuning knot tension as you string. Periodically check symmetry across the head and make sure one sidewall isn’t drastically more pinched than the other.
With the right adjustments, you can achieve excellent customized handle no matter your preferences. The Rebel O grants you the creative freedom to easily enhance feel through strategic sidewall stringing.
Experimenting with Mesh, Nylon and Hybrid Stringing
One of the best ways to fully customize your ECD Rebel Offense pocket is to experiment with integrating different stringing materials like mesh, nylon and hybrid setups. Mixing it up can let you enhance key performance areas.
Mesh is great for adding overall feel and quickness. Focus mesh diamonds on the lower sidewall area to build in more natural pocket expansion. This liveliness boosts passing and shooting velocity. Use a soft mesh like Stringking Type 3F for optimal blend of control and whip.
Nylon strings provide excellent consistency across the pocket for all-around hold and durability. Use firmer nylons up top on sidewall interlocks and laterals to keep shape. Softer nylons on lower laterals and shooters balance control and release.
Hybrid stringing allows you to maximize strengths of multiple materials. Try firmer nylons up top for hold, softer nylons and leathers through the mid-pocket for transition, and mesh down low for release. This marries performance.
Don’t forget about triple-threats like leathers and vita nyls either. These make great shooting strings to link the top and bottom of the pocket. Integrate leathers into the lower inside runners too for added feel.
The Rebel O grants the versatility to truly customize material selection across the head. Embrace this creative freedom and find what unique combo optimizes feel for your game. The options are nearly endless to craft your ideal setup.
Maintaining Optimal Pocket Shape Through Periodic Re-Stringing
One often overlooked key to keeping your ECD Rebel Offense performing at its best is proper maintenance through periodic re-stringing. As the head breaks in over time, the pocket will gradually lose shape and precision.
A good rule of thumb is to re-string your Rebel head at least once a season to restore pop and consistency. Offense-minded players may want to bump that to 2-3 times to keep the pocket crisp.
Make sure to check symmetry across the head before each re-string. Use a straight edge to identify any skewing or irregularities in sidewall height. If one side has dropped significantly, the tension and channel will need to be reset.
Pay close attention to diamond and shooter placement as you re-install strings. Reference your original pattern and measurements to duplicate the sweet spot as closely as possible. This retains the hours of work dialing in the specifc setup.
Don’t forget to factor in natural materials like leathers and meshes. These tend to bag out faster and will likely need replacing sooner than nylons. Have backups ready to swap in as needed.
Be sure to maintain proper tension across the re-stringing process too. Over-tightening shoots performance; too loose results in poor definition. Take your time and aim for consistency.
With lacrosse sticks, maintenance is half the battle. Keep your Rebel O firing on all cylinders by making regular re-stringing part of your routine. The performance gains are more than worth the time investment.
Experimenting with Mesh, Nylon and Hybrid Stringing
One of the best ways to fully customize your ECD Rebel Offense pocket is to experiment with integrating different stringing materials like mesh, nylon and hybrid setups. Mixing it up can let you enhance key performance areas.
Mesh is great for adding overall feel and quickness. Focus mesh diamonds on the lower sidewall area to build in more natural pocket expansion. This liveliness boosts passing and shooting velocity. Use a soft mesh like Stringking Type 3F for optimal blend of control and whip.
Nylon strings provide excellent consistency across the pocket for all-around hold and durability. Use firmer nylons up top on sidewall interlocks and laterals to keep shape. Softer nylons on lower laterals and shooters balance control and release.
Hybrid stringing allows you to maximize strengths of multiple materials. Try firmer nylons up top for hold, softer nylons and leathers through the mid-pocket for transition, and mesh down low for release. This marries performance.
Don’t forget about triple-threats like leathers and vita nyls either. These make great shooting strings to link the top and bottom of the pocket. Integrate leathers into the lower inside runners too for added feel.
The Rebel O grants the versatility to truly customize material selection across the head. Embrace this creative freedom and find what unique combo optimizes feel for your game. The options are nearly endless to craft your ideal setup.
Maintaining Optimal Pocket Shape Through Periodic Re-Stringing
One often overlooked key to keeping your ECD Rebel Offense performing at its best is proper maintenance through periodic re-stringing. As the head breaks in over time, the pocket will gradually lose shape and precision.
A good rule of thumb is to re-string your Rebel head at least once a season to restore pop and consistency. Offense-minded players may want to bump that to 2-3 times to keep the pocket crisp.
Make sure to check symmetry across the head before each re-string. Use a straight edge to identify any skewing or irregularities in sidewall height. If one side has dropped significantly, the tension and channel will need to be reset.
Pay close attention to diamond and shooter placement as you re-install strings. Reference your original pattern and measurements to duplicate the sweet spot as closely as possible. This retains the hours of work dialing in the specifc setup.
Don’t forget to factor in natural materials like leathers and meshes. These tend to bag out faster and will likely need replacing sooner than nylons. Have backups ready to swap in as needed.
Be sure to maintain proper tension across the re-stringing process too. Over-tightening shoots performance; too loose results in poor definition. Take your time and aim for consistency.
With lacrosse sticks, maintenance is half the battle. Keep your Rebel O firing on all cylinders by making regular re-stringing part of your routine. The performance gains are more than worth the time investment.