String King Metal Pro Lacrosse Head Features Benefits and ProsCons

String King Metal Pro Lacrosse Head Features Benefits and ProsCons

Lightweight Yet Durable Aluminum Build

One of the standout features of the String King Metal Pro head is its rugged yet featherlight aluminum construction. Unlike many other lacrosse heads made from plastic and composite materials, the Metal Pro utilizes aircraft grade aluminum throughout its construction. This provides a level of durability and stiffness simply not found in other materials while still maintaining an incredibly light overall weight.

The aluminum build allows String King to strategically tweak the thickness in different areas of the head to optimize the structure for faceoffs, checking, and scooping. Zones like the sidewalls and scoop area are beefed up for added stiffness and strength, while other regions are carefully thinned out to remove excess material without compromising integrity. At the end of the day, the Metal Pro tips the scales at a scant 145 grams strung up. This is an impressive feat considering the robust alloy build.

Beyond just saving weight in the pocketbook, the ultra-light aluminum construction provides real performance benefits too. The reduced mass allows players to whip their sticks faster and with less fatigue compared to bulkier composite or plastic options. Quicker stick speeds translate directly into harder shots and passes. Less weight also makes it easier to control the head during cradling, especially when switching hands. These benefits make it easier to play at a high level for longer durations during games and practices without wearing out.

So while some dismiss aluminum as a dated relic, String King has proven it is still highly relevant for modern lacrosse through the Metal Pro. The material provides an optimal blend of robustness and lightweight performance that simply can’t be matched by other compounds. This novel application of aluminum helps explain why the Metal Pro has been so popular with everyone from youth to pro players since its release.

Superior Ball Control and Accuracy

In addition to its lightweight aluminum construction, the Stringking Metal Pro also stands out for its excellent ball control and pinpoint passing and shooting accuracy.

The head has a strategically designed minimal offset which helps align shots straight down the field. Many other heads utilize large offset in an attempt to increase whip on shots. However, this can backfire by causing shots and passes to sail high or wide. The Metal Pro’s minimized offset keeps shots and passes on line down the alley.

Moreover, the Metal Pro has parallel sidewalls which help contain passes and reject wild fluctuations. Some heads flair out the lower sidewalls to add extra whip. But again, this can lead to erratic passes that are difficult to control. The Metal King’s parallel rails keep passes tight and on target.

The stiff aluminum build also lends itself to superior ball control. Plastic and composite heads can deform and warp over time which disrupts the original geometry. In contrast, the aircraft grade aluminum retains its shape game after game for consistent performance. The unchanging head shape enhances a player’s ability to cradle, pass, and shoot precisely.

Additionally, the Metal Pro works very well with soft mesh pockets for excellent hold and release characteristics. The lightweight soft mesh conforms tightly to the ball, securing it firmly in the pocket. This allows players to carry the ball confidently and smoothly transition between cradling and passing/shooting. The aluminum frame also provides enough stiffness for the ball to release cleanly on command.

In the hands of experienced players, the Metal Pro’s pinpoint accuracy is a true difference maker. Elite players can place shots and feeds into miniscule windows that other heads simply can’t hit consistently. Accuracy pays off especially around the crease when trying to shelve shots just under the crossbar. The Metal Pro gives players the precision they need to exploit even the smallest openings.

Overall, the Stringking Metal Pro lives up to its reputation for enabling superior ball control and surgical passing/shooting accuracy. These capabilities make it a appealing option for players looking to elevate their offensive games.

Ideal Balance of Stiffness and Flex

Finding the right balance between stiffness and flex is critical for optimal lacrosse head performance. Too stiff and the head won’t have enough “whip” on passes and shots. Too flexible and the head loses stability making it hard to control. The Stringking Metal Pro gets this balance just right thanks to its carefully engineered aluminum construction.

The alloy composition and tempering provide an ideal blend of rigidity and springiness where it matters most. Zones like the sidewalls and scoop area are rigid enough for faceoffs and ground balls. Yet the lower sidewalls still have enough flex for adding velocity to shots and feeds. This hybrid design gives players the best of both worlds – control for handling and passing combined with power for blistering shots.

Additionally, the Metal Pro runs a little shallower than previous Stringking metal heads. This shallower profile capitalizes on the inherent stiffness of aluminum to provide ample “snap” without making the pocket too deep. Many players struggle with consistency using overly deep pockets. So the Metal Pro’s moderately shallow pocket combined with dialed-in flex gives players a more predictable, reliable release.

Moreover, the Metal Pro has multiple stringing holes along the sidewalls and scoop. This allows players to customize the pocket and fine tune whip to their exact liking. More holes give stringers the freedom to tweak pocket depth, mid-pocket shape, and sidewall tension to achieve the desired flex profile. Players can string the head stiffer for more stability or more flexibly for increased velocity.

In essence, the Metal Pro removes the guesswork of trying to balance stiffness and flexibility by letting each individual stringer customize those properties to suit their playing style. The aircraft-grade aluminum provides an ideal foundation. And thoughtful holes placements and offset design give stringers the control to take advantage of that solid base.

This unique combination of material properties, geometry, and stringing adjustments puts the Metal Pro in a class of its own when it comes to balancing the yin and yang of stiffness and flex. As a result, players can shape the head to complement their game for optimized handling, passing, and shooting.

Strategically Designed Scoop

The scoop area is often overlooked, but it plays a critical role in lacrosse head performance. The Stringking Metal Pro features a strategically designed scoop to optimize ball pickup and retention.

Many scoops utilize a gradual tapering curve, but this can cause the ball to slip out during ground balls and faceoffs. The Metal Pro instead has a sharper angle mid-scoop that helps “trap” the ball and prevent it from bouncing or rolling free. This sharper scoop angle greatly improves ball retention, especially in crowded faceoff scrums.

Additionally, the scoop has reinforced sidewalls that are 20% thicker than the rest of the head. The added thickness and stiffness provide extra strength and durability where it’s needed most. Scooping ground balls and battling for faceoffs exerts tremendous stress on the scoop area. So the Metal Pro purposefully beefs up this zone for enhanced longevity.

Moreover, the scoop area utilizes an open design with multiple holes along the bottom. Previous Stringking metal heads had a partially enclosed scoop which could collect mud and debris. The Metal Pro’s open segmented construction helps channel away muck so the scoop maintains its crisp shape and smooth function.

In terms of shape, the scoop has a smooth, rounded contour for facile ground ball pickup. Many scoops have complex curves or geometric patterns that disrupt clean entries. The Metal Pro instead utilizes simple smooth curves optimized for slipping under ground balls and quickly channeling them into the pocket.

Together, these carefully planned elements – the sharp mid-scoop angle, enlarged sidewalls, open segmented design, and smooth rounded shape – make the Metal Pro’s scoop best-in-class for securing ground balls and winning faceoffs. These capabilities can provide a real competitive edge over long 60 minute games.

While the scoop is often an afterthought, Stringking demonstrates the value of thoughtful design with the Metal Pro’s purpose-built scoop. The enhanced ball retention and facile ground ball pickup it enables are subtle advantages that pay big dividends out on the field.

Reduced Flare for Accuracy

The Stringking Metal Pro lacrosse head has strategically dialed back flare compared to previous designs to promote shooting and passing accuracy.

Many lacrosse heads add significant flare, especially in the lower sidewalls and corners. This extra flare is intended to increase ball velocity by boosting whip. However, it can also lead to erratic shot and pass trajectories as the ball releases unpredictably off the angled head.

The Metal Pro purposefully pulls back the flare to keep shots and passes on line down the alley. It still maintains some flare in the throat and midsection for performance. But by removing excess flare in the lower sidewalls, it promotes more controlled, consistent release points.

This design choice complements the head’s minimal offset and parallel sidewall design. All three elements work synergistically to keep shots, feeds, and clears tracking straight up the field. For elite players, this accuracy enhances shooting efficiency by allowing them to snipe smaller openings with confidence.

Moreover, the reduced flare maintains the Metal Pro’s crisp horizontal profile even after repeated impacts. Heads with pronounced flare tend to get bent and warped, which disrupts their geometry over time. In contrast, the Metal Pro’s modest flare helps the head retain its shape and accuracy. Players don’t have to worry about diminished performance as the head ages.

For youth players still developing fundamentals, the controlled flare also provides valuable feedback. Excess flare can mask flawed mechanics by artificially generating whip. But with the Metal Pro, young players get honest feedback so they can identify and correct technical shooting and passing deficiencies.

While some players chase flair for added velocity, the Metal Pro wisely recognizes that controlled design wins out for consistent accuracy. By smartly dialing back flare, it helps players of all skill levels make the most of their abilities by enabling truer, more consistent releases across the field.

Parallel Sidewalls for Control

The Stringking Metal Pro utilizes parallel sidewalls rather than flaring walls to promote controlled performance.

Many lacrosse heads angle the sidewalls outwards, especially in the lower third of the head. This flare is intended to increase whip on shots. However, it can also lead to increased unpredictability on passes and shots as the ball releases off the angled sidewalls inconsistently.

The Metal Pro instead employs straight, vertical sidewalls to provide a consistent release point. This parallel sidewall design keeps passes and shots on line down the field for enhanced accuracy and control.

Moreover, the parallel sidewalls help reject errant passes. Heads with flared sidewalls often see balls glance wildly off the angled walls leading to turnovers. But the Metal Pro’s vertical sidewalls retain possession by retaining errant passes within the head instead of ejecting them.

For face-off specialists, the parallel sidewalls provide a larger sweet spot for clamping down on ground balls. Flared sidewalls reduce useable clamping surface area in the lower throat. But the Metal Pro’s extended straight sidewalls give face-off players more material to trap contested ground balls.

The parallel construction also contributes to the Metal Pro’s consistent longevity. Flared sidewalls can get bent and warped over time which impacts geometry. The straight sidewalls don’t have that structural weakness, helping the head maintain its shape and performance season after season.

To be clear, the Metal Pro still utilizes some strategic flare in the throat and midsection for enhanced ball control. But it purposefully avoids excess flare in the lower third. This provides the best of both worlds – controlled flare up top combined with straight sidewalls down low for optimal passing, shooting, and scooping.

The parallel sidewall design is an elegant example of Stringking’s minimalist design philosophy. By focusing on functional simplicity rather than flashy flare, the Metal Pro delivers consistency and accuracy across all lacrosse fundamentals.

Stiffness for Face-offs and Ground Balls

Success in lacrosse depends heavily on winning face-offs and scooping ground balls. The Stringking Metal Pro’s stiff aluminum construction gives players an edge in these scrappy situations.

The aircraft-grade alloy frame provides exceptional stiffness without adding unnecessary weight. This robust construction ensures the head retains its shape even when clamping down violently on contested ground balls.

Plastic and composite heads can get pushed around and distorted during physical face-offs. But the Metal Pro’s rigid alloy and thickened scoop withstand tremendous abuse. Face-off midfielders can be extra aggressive battling for possessions knowing their head won’t get dented or warped.

The added stiffness also provides superior ball retention. Some heads with more flex have a tendency to eject ground balls if the ball impacts any plastic. But the Metal Pro’s rigidity traps balls even on errant pickup attempts. Its vice-like stiffness allows players to corral ground balls other heads would bounce.

Moreover, the alloy construction has minimal vibration dampening. This may seem counterintuitive, but that direct feedback improves feel. Players can tell immediately if they mis-scooped a grounder, allowing them to quickly adjust and regain possession before defenders arrive.

In the clearing game, the Metal Pro’s stiffness facilitates smooth, confident catches on outlet passes. Its sturdy alloy frame minimizes flex, allowing players to absorb even hard outlets cleanly. This enables fast transitional breakouts thanks to quick ball movement.

While ultra-stiff heads carry some drawbacks, the Metal Pro utilizes targeted stiffness zones to provide strength where it’s needed most. This purposeful design takes advantage of aluminum’s natural rigidity for domination at the face-off X and on contested ground balls.

Minimal Offset for Ball Control

The Stringking Metal Pro utilizes a strategically designed minimal offset to promote superior ball control.

Offset refers to how far forward the top of the sidewall angles from the lower sidewalls where the pocket forms. More dramatic offset is intended to increase whip for harder shots. However, it can also make the head more difficult to control.

The Metal Pro has a precisely dialed offset that provides some added velocity but prioritizes control. The minimal offset helps keep the ball stable within the pocket on cradles, scoops, and passes. Exaggerated offset often allows the ball to roll unpredictably.

Moreover, the minimal offset enables smooth, even release points for accurate shooting and passing. Heads with severe offset can eject the ball inconsistently. But the Metal Pro’s modest offset focuses the release point for precision.

For face-off specialists, the controlled offset enlarges the useful scooping area for picking up ground balls. Heads with major offset minimize the effective lower throat space. The Metal Pro leaves ample room down low to dig out ground balls.

On the clearing ride, the minimal offset makes it easier to retain possession after outlet passes. Excess offset tends to redirect off-target passes into the ground. But the Metal Pro’s modest offset retains more errant outlets to maintain possessions.

For youth players, the reduced offset provides valuable feedback on fundamentals. Large offsets mask flawed mechanics by artificially generating whip. But with the Metal Pro, young players can self-diagnose technical issues to improve their skills.

While supercharged offsets have grown popular, Stringking shows restraint wins out in the Metal Pro. Its strategic, minimized offset may sacrifice some flash but it delivers control where it matters most – on ground balls, outlets, and shooting.

Soft Mesh Pockets for Hold and Release

The Stringking Metal Pro pairs nicely with soft mesh pockets to provide excellent hold and release characteristics.

Soft meshes made from materials like nylon conform tightly to the contours of the ball. This helps securely seat the ball within the pocket, preventing rattling and drops during play. The soft mesh truly cradles and hugs the ball whether passing, shooting, or scooping.

At the same time, the Metal Pro’s stiff alloy sidewalls provide a crisp release point when shooting or passing. Even though soft mesh secures the ball, the head still has enough structural integrity for the ball to eject cleanly.

This combination of ball-hugging mesh and stiff sidewalls is the best of both worlds. Players get superior hold for confident carries and smooth catches paired with precise, effortless release on command.

The multiple sidewall stringing holes on the Metal Pro make it easy to customize pocket placement to optimize ball control. Stringers can tweak the pocket shape and location to take full advantage of the symbiotic relationship between the soft mesh and stiff sidewalls.

While some pockets utilize harder interlocking nylon shooting strings, the Metal Pro pockets best with soft nylon meshes. The softer meshes conform better to the spherical shape of the ball for cradle-ability. They also absorb some energy on passes to provide a more controlled catchable feed.

For players struggling with shaky sticks or inaccurate feeds, the Metal Pro with soft mesh could provide the consistency needed to reach the next level. The head’s superb hold and release characteristics build fundamentals by inspiring confidence.

At the end of the day, the Metal Pro exemplifies how the right head and pocket combination can produce performance benefits greater than the sum of its parts. The soft mesh pockets enabled by the head demonstrate this synergistic potential.

Customizable Stringing

One of the Stringking Metal Pro’s standout features is the myriad strategic stringing holes that enable extensive custom pocket tuning.

The head incorporates multiple stringing points along the sidewalls and in the scoop area. This allows players to string traditional pockets or implement advanced techniques like varying interlocks and triple threats to create truly unique pocket shapes.

For example, players can tweak the exact pocket placement vertically to achieve their ideal ball position within the head. Low pockets help lift balls up on scoops, while higher pockets promote control. The holes give freedom to place the prime pocket zone wherever it works best.

Likewise, stringers can control pocket depth by utilizing different holes to make longer or shorter channel nylons. More tension pulls the nylons tighter for a shallower, more rigid pocket. Wide openings between nylons generate deeper setups with more hold and flex.

On traditional pockets, adjusting the sidewall hole spacing alters mid-pocket shape by changing the angle and tension on the runners. Wider placement creates exaggerated mid-pocket bags, while tighter stringing delivers a straighter channel shape.

For shooters, the sidewall holes let stringers tweak whip and release points by altering shooting string paths and tension. Small adjustments here can significantly impact passing and shooting speed as well as accuracy.

Thanks to the thoughtful hole placement combined with the head’s balanced structure, players have the freedom to customize pockets exactly to their playing style. More holes enable more refinement for optimized performance.

Durable Aluminum Won’t Warp

The aircraft grade aluminum frame of the Stringking Metal Pro provides unparalleled durability thanks to its resistance to warping and deforming.

Many heads utilize plastic or composite materials in order to lower weight. However, a drawback of these compounds is they can permanently warp and bend from impacts. This alters the original geometry of the head, negatively impacting performance over time.

In contrast, the Metal Pro’s rugged aluminum construction maintains its structural integrity season after season. Even after taking countless checks, slashes, and shots, the head retains its precise shape and dimensions.

This consistency ensures players get the same level of performance throughout the head’s lifespan. Pockets don’t get thrown off and ball control doesn’t degrade as the head ages. What players experience on day one is maintained on day 500.

Moreover, aluminum does not fatigue or become brittle over time like some polymers. Its mechanical properties remain stable meaning the head won’t develop soft spots or lose stiffness. It provides complete confidence that the head can withstand all the rigors of high level lacrosse.

For youth players, the bombproof durability means the Metal Pro can last seasons as they progress in the sport. Parents don’t have to worry about forking over cash for frequent head replacements.

In essence, the Metal Pro demonstrates aluminum’s unique durability advantages for lacrosse. Players searching for a head that can go to battle game after game, year after year need look no further than Stringking’s metal masterpiece.

Comfortable Backside Shape

In addition to its performance features, the Stringking Metal Pro also utilizes a strategically contoured backside shape for superior comfort and control.

Many heads employ simple curved or angular rear shapes. However, the Metal Pro incorporates thoughtful ergonomic contours built for human hands. The rear undergoes a gradual taper from the throat down to the scoop.

This tapered profile provides a smooth comfortable feel. Players can cradle confidently without any sharp edges digging into their hands. The smooth curves won’t chafe or irritate even during extended use.

Moreover, the tapered rear profile enhances control when switching hands on cradles. The gradual contours make it easy to guide the head on off-hand switches. There are no awkward angles or transitions.

The rear shape also facilitates easy scooping by allowing the hands to get beneath ground balls fluidly. Flat or angular rears inhibit getting the head under grounders. But the Metal Pro’s ergonomic curves enable smooth, continuous scooping motion.

Additionally, the minimalist design reduces weight by eliminating unnecessary material from the rear. This featherlight feel combines with the smooth shape for effortless ball control and handling. Players can carry and pass comfortably all game long.

While simpler, generic head shapes are common, Stringking shows attention to user experience pays dividends. The Metal Pro’s ergonomic contours may not grab headlines like offset or flare. But thoughtful shaping where players interact most directly delivers subtle yet meaningful performance and comfort benefits.

Great Value

Considering its premium quality and performance, the Stringking Metal Pro is priced very competitively compared to other elite lacrosse heads.

At around $150 retail, the Metal Pro costs significantly less than most high-end composite or plastic heads which can run $200+. Players get an ultra high-end head constructed from premium aerospace aluminum for the price of an average head.

The metal construction also provides more durability than plastic meaning players don’t have to replace their Metal Pro nearly as often. That exceptional longevity saves money in the long run over cheaper heads that warp and degrade quickly.

For youth players, the reasonable price-point makes the Metal Pro accessible for kids and parents on a budget. Cost need not be an obstacle to play with one of the best performing heads available thanks to Stringking’s value pricing.

Even compared to Stringking’s own composite line like the Mark 2 series, the Metal Pro costs less while providing unique advantages that plastic can’t match. Its combination of performance and affordability make it arguably the top value in lacrosse.

At the end of the day, players shouldn’t have to break the bank to play with professional grade equipment. The Metal Pro delivers elite level construction quality, technology, and capabilities at a price competitive with mid-tier options. This impressive value proposition underscores Stringking’s commitment to growing the game by making great gear accessible.