Stiffness and Flex Profile of the String King Metal Pro Head
The String King Metal Pro lacrosse head is designed to have an incredibly stiff flex profile that gives players superior ball control and handling. Unlike many other lacrosse heads that can bend and flex too much, the Metal Pro maintains its shape even during the hardest checks and passes.
This stiff flex profile comes from the head’s unique monolithic rail design. Rather than using screw or rivet connections, the sidewalls and scoop of the Metal Pro head are fused directly into the rails during manufacturing. This creates a smooth, seamless connection along the entire head that prevents weak points or gaps where bending typically occurs.
By eliminating flex and vibration, the Metal Pro gives players much more precise ball handling. You’ll notice far fewer errant passes, and tighter control when cradling the ball downfield or winding up for a shot. Ground balls are easier to scoop since the head won’t absorb energy and flex.
The stiff rails also translate to added ball velocity on shots and clears. When you cradle and shoot with the Metal Pro, none of the energy is lost to flexing plastic. This makes it easier to achieve faster shot speeds, especially on overhand rips and quick stick shots close to the crease. Attackmen and midfielders who value pinpoint accuracy on their shots and feeds will appreciate the Metal Pro’s capabilities.
Of course, some flex in a head is necessary, so String King designed the lower sidewalls of the Metal Pro to have a bit more give. This prevents the head from being too rigid while still maintaining excellent stiffness up top through the scoop. Finding the right balance of flex and rigidity took lots of R&D, but the end result is a head with impressive ball control that still has some wiggle room on checks.
Overall, the stiff flex profile and monolithic rail design are what make the String King Metal Pro unique. It gives players a level of ball control and handling that other heads simply can’t match. If you’re an elite player looking for every competitive advantage possible, the Metal Pro’s flex profile is a difference maker.
Technical Specifications of the String King Metal Pro Head
The String King Metal Pro has some unique technical specifications that make it stand out compared to other lacrosse heads on the market. Understanding the intricacies of the head’s dimensions and geometries helps explain why it performs the way it does.
Starting with the basics, the Metal Pro has an overall length of 10 inches from the top of the scoop to the bottom of the throat. This puts it right in the middle of the pack in terms of length – not too long for defensemen but with enough surface area for offensive players. The head is also 6 inches wide, which is the maximum allowed width for most men’s lacrosse leagues.
When looking at the side profile, you’ll notice the Metal Pro has a barely pinched in shape at the throat. String King calls this the “Minimal Offset” design. The taper isn’t drastic like many other heads, which makes scooping ground balls easier without sacrificing ball retention. There’s also a flattened spear-shaped ball stop above the throat to keep shots and passes from rattling around.
Moving further up the head, you’ll see the unique monolithic rail design. Rather than connecting the sidewalls to the rails with screws that can loosen over time, the Metal Pro fuses the components together seamlessly. This removes any weak points and creates an incredibly stiff flex profile. The scoop also utilizes a monolithic construction without any joints or seams.
In the middle of the head, the Metal Pro has an asymmetrical sidewall layout. The outer sidewalls use String King’s I-Beam technology which incorporates angular struts and cylindrical beams to add structural integrity. The inner sidewalls have a more V-shaped design to allow some flex on checks. Combined together, these asymmetric walls give the head that perfect blend of rigidity and flex.
When it comes to stringing, the Metal Pro head has a triple triangle top string hole layout along with double U nylon runners down the sidewalls. This gives you a ton of stringing flexibility whether you like traditional leathers or more intricate mesh pockets. The head comes with a straight plastic throat designed for the EDM process but can easily be customized with aftermarket throats.
As you can see, the String King Metal Pro packs a lot of technical innovations and intricacies into its design. Understanding the engineering and geometries involved allows you to fully appreciate why this head performs at such a high level for elite players. The attention to detail on aspects like the monolithic rails and asymmetric sidewalls demonstrate the cutting-edge tech that goes into the Metal Pro.
Weight Distribution and Balance of the String King Metal Pro
In addition to its stiff flex profile, the String King Metal Pro lacrosse head is also designed with strategic weight distribution and balance. This gives it a very lightweight yet controlled feel compared to most elite heads on the market.
The monolithic rail construction plays a key role in the overall weight and balance. By seamlessly integrating the sidewalls and scoop into one piece, there is less plastic material needed. This eliminates unnecessary bulk and keeps the weight down without sacrificing durability.
String King also optimized the geometry of the cutouts along the sidewalls and scoop area. The angular and cylindrical strut patterns are strategically placed to remove any excess material not critical for structural integrity. The resulting lattice pattern creates open spaces to reduce weight while retaining stiffness.
In the lower sidewall region, the Metal Pro utilizes a minimal offset design. This tapered throat area eliminates the dramatic pinch of some heads which require extra plastic reinforcement. The Minimal Offset profile enables a lighter overall weight by avoiding those robust throat walls.
Together, these design elements allow the Metal Pro to come in at an incredibly light 5 ounces strung. For comparison, most elite lacrosse heads are 6+ ounces strung. This reduced weight makes a big difference during play, especially for offensive players who are constantly moving the head around.
In addition to being lightweight, the Metal Pro is also exquisitely balanced. String King engineers spent lots of time perfecting the geometry to create a low center of gravity and even feel across the head. This removes any uneven weight distribution that can make a head feel clunky.
Whether cradling, scooping, passing, or shooting, the Metal Pro provides that lightweight yet balanced feel players desire. The strategic weight reduction and balance optimizations give it amazing maneuverability without compromising control. For performance-driven players, these subtle design cues add up to a noticeably different on-field experience.
Between the monolithic rails, lattice cutouts, Minimal Offset, and engineering refinements, the Metal Pro’s weight distribution and balance set it apart. You simply won’t find another head at this weight with such a balanced and lightweight feel during play. It’s what makes the Metal Pro a truly elite head worthy of the best players in the game.
Sidewall Design and Stringing Options of the Metal Pro
The String King Metal Pro lacrosse head incorporates strategic sidewall design features that optimize stringing flexibility and pocket performance.
Looking at the side profile, you’ll notice the unique asymmetrical layout. The outer walls utilize String King’s signature I-Beam technology with angular struts and cylindrical beams placed precisely to enhance stiffness.
On the inner walls, the Metal Pro instead has more of a V-shape with softer angles. This allows some controlled flex on checks that isn’t possible with the ultra-rigid I-Beam outer walls. Together, the asymmetric inner and outer sidewalls create the ideal blend of rigidity and flex.
Both sidewalls have essential cutouts and scoops that remove unnecessary material to reduce overall weight without sacrificing ball retention. The geometric lattice pattern also adds key structure while creating open spaces to decrease density.
For stringing, the Metal Pro includes a triple triangle top string hole configuration which allows optimal placement of leathers or shooting strings. The sidewalls incorporate double U-shaped nylon runners that let you easily attach mesh diamonds or traditional stringing materials.
In the throat area, there are overhead nylon runners along with sidewall stringing holes to tweak the channel and pocket placement. The Minimal Offset taper provides a smooth ramp down to the straight plastic throat that ships with the head.
Between the asymmetric wall design, strategic cutouts, multiple top string holes, and U-shaped runners, the Metal Pro gives you endless stringing possibilities. The head accommodates everything from a deep traditional pocket to a pinched-and-shifted mesh configuration.
Midfielders can dial in a quick release channel while faceoff specialists can create an optimal clamp pocket and split top string setup. For attackmen, the Metal Pro pocket can be customized for ideal hold and precision.
No matter your stringing preferences, the Metal Pro’s sidewall design and stringing features allow you to maximize pocket performance. It’s engineered to deliver the best of both worlds – advanced technologies like I-Beam combined with customizable stringing components.
The sidewalls are truly a standout part of the Metal Pro design. They create a stiff yet balanced flex profile while providing stringing versatility. For lacrosse players demanding the highest level of engineering and customization, the Metal Pro delivers.
Scoop Design of the String King Metal Pro Head
The scoop is another key design component of the String King Metal Pro lacrosse head. It utilizes a high-tech monolithic rail construction to optimize ground ball pickups and handling.
Rather than connecting the scoop to the sidewalls using screws or other fasteners, the Metal Pro fuses it directly into the monolithic rails. This creates a seamless transition that maximizes stiffness along the entire top of the frame.
By eliminating gaps, weak points, and materials overlaps, the monolithic scoop generates a smooth, continuous surface. This prevents any flex or vibration that could lead to errant passes and shots.
The scoop itself has an angular shape with precise contouring to deflect ground balls directly into the pocket. There are strategically placed angular and cylindrical cutouts that remove excess material to lower weight while retaining structure.
Together, the seamless monolithic construction and optimized geometries create an incredibly stiff scoop that excels at ground ball pickups. The ball deflects cleanly off the scoop right into your pocket rather than squirting off in odd directions.
You’ll also notice far better handling and control when carrying the ball. Cradling, passing, and shooting all feel much crisper since the energy transfers through the entire head rather than getting absorbed by a flexing scoop.
For faceoff specialists in particular, ground ball play is hugely impacted by the Metal Pro’s scoop design. The ball springs directly into your stick off the clamp for quicker pickup speed. Those fractions of a second make a real difference in battles at the X.
In addition to performance benefits, the monolithic scoop is also extremely durable. By removing joints and connection points, it can withstand more abuse from checks, slashes, and ground impacts. It maintains its stiff, lightweight form far longer than other heads.
The Metal Pro scoop demonstrates String King’s commitment to advanced engineering and technology. It leverages the seamless monolithic construct along with strategic geometries to optimize all facets of play. Ground balls, cradling, passing, shooting all improve thanks to this highly refined scoop design.
Offset Design of the String King Metal Pro
The String King Metal Pro incorporates an intentionally minimal offset design in the throat region for improved ball control and handling.
Looking at the side profile, you’ll notice the Metal Pro has a gently tapered throat rather than an aggressively pinched head shape. This is what String King refers to as their “Minimal Offset” engineering.
By avoiding an extreme offset, the lower sidewalls maintain some structure and stiffness. This prevents the head from feeling too flexible or wobbly during play. It retains the signature rigid feel through the entire frame.
The Minimal Offset profile also provides a smooth transition into the scoop area. This allows for continuous contact as you cradle and carry the ball across the head. You won’t feel the ball rattling around in a pocket created by a deeply recessed throat.
On shots, the decreased offset generates improved ball velocity and accuracy. Energy transfers cleanly through the head and into the pocket instead of dissipating along a pinched throat wall.
The offset design also enhances ground ball play, especially on errant passes that skip off the turf. The moderately tapered throat lets you scoop under the ball quickly without it jamming into a tight corner.
For faceoff specialists, the Minimal Offset geometry provides an unobstructed clamping surface to gain leverage against your opponent. You don’t have to contend with extra ridges or walls interrupting the clamp.
At the same time, the Metal Pro retains a defined stop area right above the throat to keep shots and feeds contained. This prevents the ball from rattling around too much during play.
The Minimal Offset philosophy essentially optimizes the throat shape and contouring to enhance performance. It removes unnecessary pinching and structures that can negatively impact passing, shooting, cradling, and scooping.
String King’s engineers precisely dialed in the offset design through extensive R&D and testing. The end result is a head with noticeably improved feel across all facets of the game thanks to this purposeful engineering decision.
Unique Rail Design of the String King Metal Pro
The monolithic rail system is a signature design component of the String King Metal Pro lacrosse head. This seamless one-piece construction optimizes stiffness for superior ball control.
Rather than connecting the sidewalls and scoop to the rails using screws, the Metal Pro directly fuses those elements into the rails during manufacturing. This creates a smooth, continuous rail across the entire head.
By eliminating weak points, gaps, overlaps, and fasteners, the monolithic rail delivers unmatched rigidity and stiffness. There are no areas that can loosen or flex over time like heads with detachable components.
You’ll immediately notice the performance benefits during play. Cradling, passing, and shooting all feel extremely crisp since energy transfers directly through the head. None of that energy dissipates due to material flexing or vibration.
The ball moves seamlessly from the scoop, across the sidewalls, and through the pocket. At no point does it rattle around or get held up thanks to the head’s uniform stiffness.
Checks and slashes also feel different against the Metal Pro. The ball stays in your pocket rather than popping out since the rails don’t bend. You can maintain possession through contact because of the head’s rigidity.
In addition to optimizing stiffness, the monolithic rail removes weight by eliminating unnecessary overlapping materials and fasteners. This is what allows the Metal Pro to achieve such a remarkably light yet balanced feel.
The seamless rails also add to the head’s durability. There are no gaps between components that could catch on turf or separate from checks. The Metal Pro maintains its stiff, rigid shape far longer than other heads.
String King’s unique monolithic technology sets their Metal Pro head apart from anything else on the market. The continuous one-piece rail construction enables unprecedented levels of ball control for lacrosse players demanding every competitive advantage.
Ideal Player Positions and Styles for the Metal Pro Head
The String King Metal Pro lacrosse head is designed with elite-level players in mind across various positions. Here is a breakdown of which player types can benefit most from the Metal Pro’s technologies.
For attackmen, the head’s super stiff rail and pocket allow unmatched ball control and shot precision. Quick stick shots from tight angles go exactly where you aim thanks to the rigid frame. The pocket holds the ball securely for designing fakes and rolls to elude defenders.
Midfielders benefit from the Metal Pro’s superior ball handling and quick release when moving downfield. The lightweight feel and balanced design make it easy to cradle at top speed. The ball moves smoothly from the scoop to pocket, enabling fast feeds to cutters in tight spaces.
Faceoff specialists will immediately notice the Metal Pro’s advantage on clamping and ground balls. The Minimal Offset design and angular scoop optimize your leverage to gain possession off the draw. Ground balls lift cleanly into your stick so you can win the ball after the faceoff.
For defensemen, the Metal Pro’s durability and ball retention shine. Rigid checks keep the ball in your pocket through contact. Ground balls funnels smoothly up the scoop. The head maintains its stiff shape despite slashes and pokes during defensive positioning.
Goalies also appreciate the Metal Pro’s lightweight feel and precision passing. Outlets to midfielders are crisp thanks to the head’s energy transfer. Clear attempts feel balanced when running the ball upfield yourself. The durability also holds up well to high-velocity shots.
While designed for elite players first, the Metal Pro can still appeal to younger athletes focused on improving their game. The technologies will sharpen their fundamentals like passing, catching, and shooting as they develop skills.
No matter your playing style or position, the String King Metal Pro provides an edge with its innovative technologies. Attack, midfield, faceoff, defense, and goalie players all gain advantages from the Metal Pro’s unique engineering and design.
Comparison to Other Stringking Lacrosse Heads
The Stringking Metal Pro stands out even within Stringking’s own lineup of elite lacrosse heads. Here’s how it compares to the company’s other top-tier offerings.
Versus the Stringking Mark 2F, the Metal Pro has noticeably more stiffness and rigidity from its monolithic rail design. The Mark 2F utilizes a more forgiving, flexible build optimized for faceoffs. The Metal Pro is stiffer for added ball control.
Comparing it to the Stringking Mark 2V, the Metal Pro is lighter yet just as rigid. The Mark 2V is made of durable ViTechnology material while the Metal Pro leverages lightweight monolithic rails. Both deliver excellent stiffness but the Metal Pro has a feather-like feel.
Up against the Stringking Mark 2D, the Metal Pro has more offensive versatility. The Mark 2D focuses on defensive checking andpoke protection. The Metal Pro excels at both offense and defense thanks to its balanced technologies.
Versus Stringking’s women’s offerings like the Mark 2W, the Metal Pro is built to withstand the rigors of elite men’s lacrosse. It’s optimized for the hardest checks, fastest shots, and most extreme impacts.
Within Stringking’s own engineering workshop, the Metal Pro represents the pinnacle of performance, precision, and durability. It leverages the company’s latest technology breakthroughs to create the most advanced men’s lacrosse head available today.
While Stringking’s other heads are impressive in their own right, the Metal Pro stands at the top. No other model in their line matches the Metal Pro’s uncompromising blend of groundbreaking innovations and complete on-field performance.
Durability and Weather Resistance of the Metal Pro
In addition to optimized performance, the Stringking Metal Pro lacrosse head is engineered for maximum durability and weather resistance during play.
The monolithic rail design improves long-term durability by removing points of failure. Integrating the scoop, sidewalls, and rails into one continuous piece eliminates gaps, fasteners, and overlapping materials that can break down.
This seamless construction also better withstands impact forces from checks, slashes, faceoff clashes, and ground ball scoops. Impacts transmit uniformly across the entire head instead of concentrating on specific joints or connectors.
On hot playing surfaces, the Metal Pro maintains its stiff, rigid shape rather than warping from heat like some plastic heads. The materials hold form even as temperatures rise throughout a game.
In wet conditions, the Metal Pro won’t absorb moisture and soften up or change performance characteristics. Water beads off the head while it retains its precision ball handling and crisp energy transfer.
Over time, the Metal Pro also resists wear, scuffing, and abrasions more effectively than other heads. The smooth monolithic build doesn’t have gaps, ridges, or holes that can catch on turf or abrasive surfaces.
Because the scoop, sidewalls, and rails move as one piece, the head absorbs impacts from all directions without compromising structural stability or performance.
For players who invest in an elite-level stick, durability and longevity are key. The Metal Pro delivers with engineering focused specifically on sustained high performance rather than flashy gimmicks or technologies.
Whether battling summer heat, spring rains, or the normal wear-and-tear of a grueling season, the Metal Pro holds strong. It’s the last head you’ll need for a long time thanks to unmatched durability.
Value and Price Point of the Stringking Metal Pro
For its advanced technologies and elite-level performance, the Stringking Metal Pro lacrosse head provides excellent value at its price point.
At around $150, the Metal Pro sits in the premium tier of head prices, but still costs less than competitors with comparable features and innovations.
Given the performance advantages from its monolithic rail system, asymmetric sidewalls, minimized offset, and strategic geometries, the Metal Pro delivers a lot of technology for the money.
The head also includes Stringking’s proprietary 382 strand nylon runner stringing system which other brands charge extra for. So you get added value from helpful stringing components.
Considering the rigorous lab testing and R&D required to develop the Metal Pro’s groundbreaking designs, the price seems very reasonable. You’re paying primarily for advanced engineering rather than advertising budgets or sponsored endorsements.
Because of the head’s nearly unbreakable durability, you also get more use from your investment over time. The monolithic build and reinforced materials translate to years of sustained performance.
For players serious about improving their game with the best technologies available, the Metal Pro makes sense financially. You’ll quickly notice the performance dividends from features like the stiff monolithic rails and minimal offset design.
While not the cheapest head available, the Metal Pro delivers substantial value for the money. Given the innovations involved, it’s a worthwhile investment for lacrosse players who want every competitive advantage they can get.
Pros of the Stringking Metal Pro Head
The Stringking Metal Pro lacrosse head has several standout pros that make it a top choice for elite players.
First, the monolithic rail design creates unprecedented stiffness and rigidity for superior ball control. By integrating the scoop and sidewalls into one continuous piece, it achieves a seamless feel no other head can match.
Second, the Minimal Offset geometry in the throat improves performance across all facets of the game. The tapered throat enhances shooting, passing, cradling, and scooping thanks to its smooth contour.
Third, the head is remarkably lightweight at just 5 ounces strung. This feather-like feel comes from the strategic cutouts and minimized materials made possible by the monolithic rails.
Fourth, the assymetric I-Beam sidewalls optimize stiffness on the outside for ball retention while allowing some flex on checks on the inside walls.
Fifth, the Metal Pro provides elite-level durability thanks to the reinforced monocoque construction and robust materials. It maintains peak performance for longer than most heads.
Sixth, the head comes outfitted with Stringking’s 382 nylon runner system for simplified yet customizable stringing right out of the box.
Seventh, it’s made in the USA with strict quality control standards unmatched by overseas manufacturers.
With its combination of groundbreaking technologies, lightweight feel, custom stringing options, and bulletproof durability, the Stringking Metal Pro sets the new standard for elite lacrosse performance.
Cons to Consider About the Metal Pro
While designed for elite play, the Stringking Metal Pro still has a few potential drawbacks to consider.
First, the ultra-stiff feel takes some adjustment coming from a more flexible head. The rigidity can feel restrictive initially until you adapt your playing style.
Second, the head is optimized for top-tier high school, college, and pro players. Less experienced athletes may find the Pro too rigid and advanced for their skill level.
Third, the price tag puts it at the higher end for a head purchase. Players on a budget may not be able to justify the cost.
Fourth, the Minimal Offset shape means less of a defined channel and pocket area. Players who rely on an exaggerated pinch and shift may need an adjustment period.
Fifth, the barebones specs mean you miss out on some of the ergonomic additions like flared sidewalls and extra stringing holes found on other heads.
While designed purely for elite-level performance, the Metal Pro does require some adaptation and practice to become fully proficient with its uncompromising technologies.
However, for experienced players demanding every competitive advantage, the Metal Pro provides the most advanced technologies and engineering in lacrosse today. Its performance benefits outweigh any potential drawbacks for the right athletes.
Final Verdict on the Stringking Metal Pro
The Stringking Metal Pro represents the pinnacle of lacrosse head engineering and performance. It’s built without compromise solely for elite-level players.
The monolithic rail system creates unprecedented stiffness and ball control from its seamless one-piece design. By integrating the scoop and sidewalls into the rails, it achieves game-changing rigidity.
The Minimal Offset throat optimizes the shape for superior passing, shooting, scooping, and cradling. The geometry enhances all facets of play.
Strategic cutouts and advanced materials make the Metal Pro incredibly lightweight yet highly durable. It redefines the possibilities for precision ball handling and quickness.
With supporting technologies like the AsymWall sidewalls, angular scoop, and built-in 382 nylon runners, the Metal Pro pushes the envelope of innovation.
Simply put, no other lacrosse head combines such a complete array of advanced engineering focused purely on elite performance.
For high school, college, and pro players striving to take their game to the highest level, the Stringking Metal Pro represents the state-of-the-art in lacrosse. Its unmatched blend of groundbreaking designs and total on-field performance makes it the top choice for any serious athlete.