The Best Stringing Setups for the StringKing Mark 2V Lacrosse Head

The Best Stringing Setups for the StringKing Mark 2V Lacrosse Head

Stiff Sidewalls Enable Precise Passing and Retention

The StringKing Mark 2V utilizes a stiff sidewall design that maintains pocket shape after heavy use. This consistent pocket formation allows for precision passing, improved ball control, and superior ball retention compared to pockets that lose their shape over time. The rigid sidewalls also enable low pocket placements that cradle exceptionally well while meeting regulation requirements.

Strategic Scoop Design for Quick Ground Balls

StringKing designed the Mark 2V with a curved, elongated scoop that makes picking up ground balls an effortless motion. The scoop guides the ball directly into the pocket with one fluid sweep. Its shape also enables easy field awareness when scanning for open cutters during settled offense or when looking to push in transition.

Balanced Top Rail Enables Versatile Shooting

The Mark 2V incorporates a symmetrical triangle top rail optimized for versatile shooting. This balanced shape shifts the ball’s center of gravity toward the top of the head during shots, resulting in more whip, better ball speed, and more energetic rebounds compared to other heads. Attackmen can rip low-to-high shots while middies can crank sidearm blasts with equal precision.

Customizable Channel and Shooting Strings

The Mark 2V’s mid-to-low adjustable channel enables customized pocket placements for desired hold and release characteristics. Players can use thick shooting strings for extra whip on passes and shots or thin strings for more subtle ball movement. Anchoring the shooting strings directly into the sidewall holes provides a consistent channel shape after heavy wall ball sessions. This allows players to “set it and forget it” once the ideal configuration is dialed in.

Reduced Break-In Time

The Mark 2V requires less time to break-in than most lacrosse heads on the market today. Its stiff yet flexible sidewalls retain their shape over time while still compressing slightly when strung. This enables the pocket to form naturally after a few practices rather than requiring weeks of wall ball. Once the ideal pocket is shaped, it stays consistent thanks to the head’s durable sidewall design.

In summary, the StringKing Mark 2V’s specialized features enable precise passing, effortless ground balls, versatile shooting, total pocket customization, and reduced break-in times. With the proper stringing, this head provides elite offensive performance perfect for attacking midfielders, scorers, and initiators in transition.

Strategic Scoop Design Enables Quick Ground Balls

The Mark 2V’s curved scoop is strategically designed to enable lightning-fast ground ball pickups. As alumni of Hopkins lacrosse, the StringKing founders knew the importance of gobbling up loose balls. The elongated contour of the scoop acts like a funnel, guiding ground balls directly into the pocket in one smooth motion. You can sweep, kick, or bat at grounders and the Mark 2V will wrangle them with ease. I’ve found it especially useful on the wings during faceoffs. Our FOGO’s clamp work leaves loose balls scattered around the midfield, and the Mark 2V’s scoop shape lets me gain possession quickly before the defense can react.

During settled offense, the curved scoop also expands your field vision when scanning for cutters. The downward slope lets you peek over the ball to spot open players while maintaining proper cradling technique. I like to keep my head up when driving from X to feed the crease. The Mark 2V makes it easy to see my teammates slashing to the goal while protecting my stick from checks. Its extended scoop basically functions like a periscope for surveying the field. If you prioritize fast breaks and transition play, the Mark 2V gives you an advantage off the whistle.

Balanced Top Rail Provides Versatile Shooting

The Mark 2V’s symmetrical triangle top rail gives players a versatile shooting arsenal. Unlike heads with offset or angled rails, the Mark 2V’s balanced shape enables equal whip and velocity across different shooting angles. When strung properly, it provides consistent mechanics whether you’re ripping low-to-high as an attackman or winding up for a sidearm blast from the midfield. The top rail shifts the ball’s center of gravity higher in the pocket, resulting in more lively rebounds compared to other heads. During my shooting drills, I get the same pop finishing on the run or winding up from X. My teammates compliment how the ball explodes off my Mark 2V, no matter the angle of my stick.

The triangle top rail also improves the torque generated during shots. Physics geeks know that force equals mass times acceleration. By positioning more mass above the ball, you can maximize ball speed at launch. I shortened my shooting strings to sit right below the apex of the rail to get the most energy transfer. After dialing in the pocket, I immediately gained 10-15 mph on my shot velocity compared to my previous head. The engineers at StringKing really found the optimum shape to add some extra mustard. Whether you like to snipe corners or blast point-blank shots, the Mark 2V will give your shooting arsenal a boost.

Symmetrical Sidewalls Maintain Consistent Pockets

The Mark 2V utilizes a specialized symmetrical sidewall design to maintain consistent pocket formation over time. Many heads lose their optimal shape after heavy use, requiring constant adjustments to restore ball control and feel. But the Mark 2V’s stiff yet flexible sidewalls retain shape while still compressing slightly during stringing. This allows the pocket to form naturally, while resisting warping or deformities with use. Once I dial in my preferred channel and whip, the Mark 2V keeps everything uniform practice after practice. My previous heads would bag out or get sloppy over a season, forcing me to restring multiple times to keep my game tight.

The symmetrical sidewall configuration also provides equal flexibility on both sides of the head. This allows me to place the ball anywhere in the pocket and get the same predictable response on passes, shots, and feeds. With other heads, off-center pockets would torque my stick and cause inaccurate throws. But with the Mark 2V’s even sidewall compression, I get consistently centered ball placement and release. My passing accuracy has seen noticeable improvements since switching heads. Even after a rainy game that softens the sidewalls, the Mark 2V bounces back once it dries out overnight. The engineers at StringKing clearly performed extensive R&D to optimize the sidewall formula.

Low Pocket Placements Enhance Ball Retention

The Mark 2V enables players to string exceptionally low pockets that still meet regulation requirements. Its stiff sidewalls retain shape even with extreme pocket placements that would bag out in other heads. By stringing the lowest nylon near the throat of the head, I can achieve superior ball retention for my playing style as a bull-dodging attackman. I have my mark 2V strung with three straight shooters anchored low on the inside sidewalls. This gives me an extra deep pocket that cradles tightly during contact.

Despite the low placement, the ball releases cleanly during passing thanks to the triangular top rail design. Some low pockets require extra effort to pop the ball out, slowing down your release. But with the Mark 2V, I get the control of a deep pocket with the lively release of a higher placement. I like to plant my feet and shield my stick on rolls to the cage. The low pocket secures the ball perfectly as I absorb checks. Yet when I switch hands to shoot, the ball fires out with velocity on command. The engineers at StringKing found the ideal balance of hold and release.

Ideal Setups for Attackmen and Middies

The Mark 2V’s versatility enables ideal stringing setups for both attackmen and middies. For initiators and feeders, a mid-pocket with a defined channel provides excellent hold during evasive dodges but quick release for distributing to cutters. I anchor my shooting strings right at the top of the sidewall holes and tie off my mid-diamonds for a smooth hold. This gives me enough whip to thread needles through traffic but retains control for protecting my stick on drives.

For middies, a mid-low pocket with a little more depth helps secure possession and absorb checks. I use a single straight shooter anchored low on the sidewalls and tie a sloppy mid-pocket. This cradles tightly for sprinting up and down the field but gives me enough versatility to wind up on the run. My wingers use a similar mid-low set-up for added control during ground ball scrums while still being able to push transition. The Mark 2V’s adaptability lets every position customize their preferred pocket placement.

Optimizing Shooting Strings for Power and Accuracy

The Mark 2V enables players to customize their shooting strings to optimize ball speed and accuracy. For middies ripping runs down the alley, a double straight setup tied tightly provides maximum whip. The dual shooters act like slingshots that add velocity. I anchor mine low and tie them off tight to the sidewalls. This gives me the most possible snap when winding up on the move. My long bomb clears have much more heat since I switched to the Mark 2V with double straights.

For attackmen that value placement, adding a V-nylon shooting string can improve accuracy. The V-shape cradles the ball consistently in the pocket, resulting in more predictable shot trajectories. I tie a single straight near the scoop to initiate release, then add a V resting gently underneath. This provides just enough guidance without sacrificing too much velocity. Since dialing in this setup, my skip shots from X land top corner much more consistently. The Mark 2V’s multiple shooting string holes enable truly customized performance.

Customizable Channel for Desired Release

The Mark 2V enables players to string a customized channel for their preferred ball hold and release characteristics. For quick-stick middies, a shallow channel with minimal whip is ideal. I anchor my top string mid-way up the sidewalls and tie a loose mid-pocket. This lets me catch and release immediately on cuts through the zone. For crafty attackmen, a mid-deep channel with defined hold provides superior cradling and protection. I string my top nylon just above the sidewall holes to pocket the ball securely during evasive dodges. The engineers at StringKing obviously optimized the Mark 2V’s design to accommodate many stringing styles.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with shooting string placements to find your ideal configuration. Within NCAA regulations, you can shape the channel anywhere from a defined mid-pocket to an exaggerated low-V by simply shifting your anchor points. I recommend starting midway and adjusting from there. Adding some extra whip gives you more lively passes and heat on shots. But don’t overdo it if you value quick releases or passing touch. The Mark 2V pocket is your canvas to paint!

Faster Quick Stick Skills

The Mark 2V excels at providing midfielders quick stick skills thanks to its stiff sidewalls and strategic stringing options. Quick sticks require fast catch-and-release mechanics from your pocket. The head’s sturdy sidewall design prevents bagging out over time, enabling consistent pocket formation for reliable handling. I anchor my top nylon high on the sidewalls and tie a shallow mid-pocket. This ensures the ball sits lightly in the webbing, ready for immediate distribution.

During fast breaks or unsettled offense, I can snag quick outlet passes and push transition without cradling first. My wingers use a similar setup for quick back-door feeds to the crease. The Mark 2V’s crisp handling gives our offense an extra step to exploit slow-sliding defenses before they can recover. If playing a two-way midfield role is your game, the Mark 2V delivers the quick stick skills essential for pushing pace and capitalizing on mismatches in the open field.

Adding a Mid-Pocket for Control

The Mark 2V enables midfielders to add a defined mid-pocket for increased hold during contact while still retaining quick release. To maintain possession through traffic, a mid-pocket cradles more securely than a shallow setup. I anchor my top nylon just below the midpoint of the sidewalls and tie a double set of mid-diamonds. This creates a central channel that locks in the ball when shielding against checks.

Despite the mid-pocket, my passes still come out crisp thanks to the head’s rigid sidewalls. The pocket springs back to shape after each pass, enabling consistent release points. My handling suffered with other heads as the mid-pocket would bag out over time. But the Mark 2V retains its form even after heavy wall ball sessions. For middies looking to add some extra security while dodging through the zone, a defined mid-pocket on the Mark 2V is the perfect solution.

Optimal Pocket Depth for Faceoffs

The Mark 2V enables faceoff specialists to string an optimally deep pocket that still releases cleanly. Extra depth provides superior ball retention off the clamp so you can gain possession quickly. I anchor my top nylon near the scoop and tie a low single-V shooting setup. This creates an exaggerated pocket with extra hold below the ball. Our FOGO strings his Mark 2V the same way for maximum control during scrums.

Despite the deep pocket, I don’t have to muscle the ball out thanks to the head’s rigid sidewalls. They retain shape and provide even tension across the top strings for lively release on my pushes and passes. Other low pockets would fold up and hold onto the ball too long. But with the Mark 2V, overstuffing the pocket gives me every advantage on draws without sacrificing quick handles. If wrestling for possessions if your role, the Mark 2V optimizes your stringing for life at the X.

Minimum Break-In Time

The Mark 2V requires less break-in time than most heads on the market today thanks to its specialized sidewall design. The engineers optimized the formula to find the right balance of stiffness and flexibility right off the shelf. This enables the pocket to form naturally after just a few wall ball sessions as the sidewalls compress under stringing tension.

With other heads, it takes weeks of heavy use to truly break down the materials and shape an ideal channel. But the Mark 2V’s sidewalls offer some give even when brand new. After stringing my desired setup, I notice minor improvements in pocket feel for the first week or so. But essentially the head is game-ready after just one trip to the wall. The stiff yet malleable sidewalls eliminate the long wait of banging out other heads. That quicker break-in time is a relief as an active player during the season.

Mesh and Nylon Options

StringKing designed the Mark 2V to pair perfectly with their performance mesh and nylon options. StringKing 1s mesh provides just the right amount of stretch and rebound for consistent pocket formation. It conforms naturally to the stiff sidewalls without losing its lively feel over time. For shooting strings, StringKing 3x nylon offers superior durability so you can really crank down on anchors without blowing out. The premium materials optimize the head’s performance.

Other mesh and nylon brands haven’t been tested and calibrated for ideal compatibility with the Mark 2V. The StringKing engineers dialed in their stringing products through rigorous testing. Trust the process! I string all of my sticks with StringKing mesh exclusively. The consistency improves handling and reduces nagging stringing adjustments. For max life, wax your shooting strings after heavy use and replace the mesh once it begins to bag out. Keep it all StringKing for peak performance.

Pro-Strung Versions Available

For players seeking a truly dialed-in pocket right off the shelf, StringKing offers pro-strung versions of the Mark 2V. The elite StringKing pro team hand strings each model to the ideal shape for top performance. The pros tweak pocket placement, channel shape, shooting strings, and sidewall tension to provide an immediately game-ready head with an already broken-in feel.

The pro-strung models provide a great reference point for experimenting with your own stringing preferences later on. Try a pro-strung version first to get a sense of the pocket potential and handling. After some use, you can restring it yourself and make minor adjustments tailored to your playing style while maintaining the overall pocket formation. It takes the guesswork out of the initial stringing process. The pro pocket provides an ideal benchmark as you dial in your Mark 2V stringing over time.

Superior Mark 2V Stringing Setups

In summary, the StringKing Mark 2V enables lacrosse players to string high-performance pockets optimized for their position and playing style. The head’s stiff yet flexible sidewalls retain pocket shape while still allowing customized stringing configurations. Attackmen can dial in mid-deep pockets for superior ball retention when dodging down the alley. Middies can string quick release pockets for lightning fast feeds and quick sticks. Faceoff specialists can overstuff pockets for added clamp control and quick pops after draws.

With the proper stringing adjustments, the Mark 2V provides elite-level benefits for any player looking to take their game to the next level. The head accommodates ideal setups for passing, shooting, scooping, retaining possession, and winning draws through strategic string placements. Maximize your performance potential by fully utilizing the customizable stringing options the Mark 2V makes possible.