The Maverik Tactik 20 Lacrosse Head Is a Versatile Option for Attack and Midfield

The Maverik Tactik 20 Lacrosse Head Is a Versatile Option for Attack and Midfield

The Narrower Head Profile Improves Ball Control and Quickness

One of the most noticeable updates with the Maverik Tactik 2.0 is the narrowed head profile compared to the original model. Maverik slimmed down the 2.0’s width by roughly 3/8 of an inch, resulting in a head that measures 6 inches across at its widest point. This reduced dimension may not seem like a dramatic change on paper, but it makes a significant difference in feel and performance.

The narrowed head profile gives players tighter control over cradling, passing, and shooting. With less surface area, the ball stays centered in the pocket instead of rolling from side-to-side. Quick stick passes come off the Tactik 2.0 with crisp precision, without wobble or deviation. Many midfielders prefer narrower heads because they support faster handling and quicker releases when pushing transition or trying to beat a defender one-on-one.

Attackmen also benefit from the slimmed-down design, especially when dodging from X or around the crease. The Tactik 2.0’s profile is conducive to tight stick work in small spaces. Users can roll the ball out of corners or split multiple defenders with exact feeds. Even while drawing contact, the ball stays put instead of popping out of the head on checks and slashes.

During shots, the narrowed width focuses more force behind the ball for added velocity. With everything centered in the pocket, shots come off the Tactik 2.0 with tight rotation and less flutter. This amplifies the head’s already impressive power potential thanks to the Rail X sidewalls and EnduraForm polymer. The combination of technologies makes the Tactik 2.0 a great shooting head for midfielders and attackmen alike.

While wider heads offer a larger sweet spot and more ball retention, the trade-off comes in control and quickness. For players who value precision, speed, and pinpoint passing or shooting, the slimmed-down Tactik 2.0 is an excellent option. The reduced profile better supports the finesse game that many midfielders and attackmen rely on to be effective.

The Offset Scoop Improves Ground Balls and Passing Accuracy

A key feature of the Tactik 2.0 that builds on the original model is the angled or offset scoop and sidewalls. Whereas most heads have flat scoops that sit perpendicular to the handle, the Tactik 2.0 utilizes an offset or canted design.

The scoop itself sits at about a 45-degree angle, while the sidewalls slope downward from the center. This gives the entire head a directional bias and aligned profile. So when you look down the handle, the left and right walls angle inward toward the throat.

This offset comes with some noteworthy performance benefits, especially for ground balls and passing. The angled scoop digs into turf better on ground ball pickups. Rather than lying flat and skimming over the surface, the offset scoop bites in and grabs possession. The downward sidewalls also give you more power when flipping up ground balls.

The biased alignment similarly improves passing and shooting accuracy. With the angled sidewalls, the ball naturally centers in the pocket as you bring your stick vertical. This prevents side-to-side roll and keeps the ball tight. Passes come off the Tactik 2.0 with tight spin and precision, without the flutter or wobble you may get from a flat-walled head.

Midfielders benefit the most from the enhanced passing ability, especially on the break when hitting leads or under pressure. Attackmen also appreciate the accuracy on quick-stick feeds, dumps, and rolls from behind. The inward-canted walls make it easier to target passes to teammates anywhere around the goal.

During shots, the aligned profile keeps more energy behind the ball by preventing lateral dispersion. With all the flex focused in the centerline, you get more velocity behind shots. The offset scoop also lets you get over the ball better on low-to-high shots for more power. Faceoff specialists prefer the angled scoop for clean clamping at the X.

While offset heads require some adjustment from flat designs, the performance advantage is clear. The aligned sidewalls enhance off-center ball control, passing, and shooting consistency. It’s a feature unique to Maverik that improves performance across the board.

EnduraForm Rail X Technology Adds Stiffness and Durability

A standout technological innovation in the Tactik 2.0 is Maverik’s EnduraForm Rail X sidewall design. This re-engineered sidewall utilizes a premium polymer material called EnduraForm that integrates directly with the head’s rails along the sidewalls.

EnduraForm has several performance properties that make it ideal for lacrosse heads. The material has a flexural modulus 2x stronger than traditional nylons, giving it incredible stiffness without adding weight. EnduraForm also retains its structure even under high temperature, so it won’t warp or degrade over time.

By bonding the EnduraForm directly to the head’s sidewall rails, Maverik created an incredibly stiff and rugged frame. Dubbed Rail X, this integrated construction eliminates flex and distortion better than interchangeable sidewalls. You get a more rigid head with better ball control and shot velocity.

Rail X also dampens vibration and shock from checks, slashes, and impact. The head feels rock-solid during ground balls, face-offs, and battles in front of the net. The technology enhances durability even under heavy abuse from defenders’ sticks.

For midfielders and attackmen, the EnduraForm rails provide a very stiff shooting platform. You get more energy transfer for maximum ball speed, without losing any power to flex or instability. The rigid frame also offers precision on tight passes and quick releases, especially when under pressure.

Thanks to the EnduraForm’s resilience, the Rail X system maintains its stiffness and integrity season after season. While some heads get softer over time, the Tactik 2.0 retains its pop and performance. For players who tend to bend or warp heads with their shooting style, the Rail X technology offers piece of mind.

The integrated EnduraForm rail construction is a game-changer for box and field players alike. By innovating the materials and methods beyond interchangeable sidewalls, Maverik created a new level of rigidity and durability with their Rail X system.

Strategic Stringing Holes Enable Custom Pocket Placement

Building on the success of the original Tactik head, Maverik optimized the stringing setup on the Tactik 2.0 to provide more customizable pocket placement options.

The head has several strategically-positioned stringing holes that let players fine-tune pocket placement for their specific style. You can string traditional midfielders’ pockets focused higher in the head or customize a deeper pocket placement for attackmen.

The Tactik 2.0 incorporates Maverik’s Offset Stringing technology to allow for a channeled mid-pocket or a straight runner system. This gives you flexibility to string a mid/low pocket suited for Canadian box-style play or a higher field lacrosse pocket placement.

For midfielders, the versatile stringing options make it easy to dial in a hold that maintains control on fakes and rolls. You can set up a mid-pocket with a quick release point for snapping passes up-field. For attackmen, the deeper pocket placements provide superior hold on wraps and rolls behind the cage.

No matter what pocket style you prefer, the Tactik 2.0 gives you the mounting holes and positions to make it happen. The engineers optimized the top stringing rails for shaping a precise channel and securing the ball on rebounds.

Along with the flexible stringing options, the Tactik 2.0 works with Maverik’s HyperLite mesh pre-strung pockets. The HyperLite material molds and shapes quickly for accelerated break-in. You can have the Tactik 2.0 game-ready right out of the box.

Given the variety of player preferences in the modern game, the ability to customize stringing is invaluable. Maverik did their homework on the Tactik 2.0 to ensure every short-stick player can achieve their ideal setup. The strategic holes enable excellent shape retention and on-point releases no matter the style.

HyperLite Mesh Enables Quick Pocket Break-in

While the Maverik Tactik 2.0 head offers customizable stringing options, you can also buy it pre-strung with Maverik’s HyperLite mesh pocket. This proprietary mesh material enables accelerated break-in so your pocket is game-ready faster.

The HyperLite polymer has specialized properties that improve its performance over traditional nylon mesh. The material retains its structure to provide excellent ball control and hold. Yet HyperLite still has enough give to encourage optimal pocket shape after just a few practices.

With standard mesh, strings need time to soften and the diamonds to settle into place. This “bagging out” process can take weeks with heavy use. But HyperLite mesh pockets achieve an ideal mid-to-deep pocket shape within just days of stringing.

The accelerated break-in is perfect for players who don’t have the time or patience to let a stiff mesh pocket form naturally. The Tactik 2.0 with HyperLite arrives pre-shaped and Contour Fit to the head’s sidewalls right out of the box.

Despite the quick break-in, HyperLite mesh maintains its snappy response for accurate feeds and fast releases. The material won’t over-stretch or lose its rebound like traditional soft mesh. The HyperLite pocket provides excellent hold for cradling but still rewards you with crisp passing.

For those who play indoor box lacrosse, HyperLite is also more durable against ball and stick wear than regular nylon mesh. It retains its pocket structure for more consistent throws, even when playing on carpet surfaces.

With the pre-molded HyperLite pocket option, Maverik offers a true ready-to-go package with the Tactik 2.0. Just screw it onto your handle and get playing – no tedious breaking-in required. It’s ideal for new and experienced players alike.

Mid-Level Offset Scoop Improves Performance

As discussed previously, the Maverik Tactik 2.0 utilizes an angled or offset scoop and sidewall design. This gives the head a directional bias unlike flat-scooped heads. However, Maverik optimized the exact offset placement for improved performance.

Rather than canting the scoop aggressively, the Tactik 2.0 utilizes a more moderate mid-level offset. The scoop sits centered between high-offset and a straight-across layout. This provides some bias without being too dramatic.

The mid-level offset offers most of the performance benefits of a canted scoop design. You get ample assistance directing ground balls into the pocket and channeling passes/shots. But the more moderate angle avoids any learning curve coming from a flat-scooped head.

During face-offs, the centered offset provides torque and control when clamping the ball. You can use the leverage to pop the ball free while retaining directional control. This prevents the ball careening wildly in the scramble after a clamp.

On shots, the balanced offset keeps just enough energy focused behind the ball without sacrificing feel. Heads with more extreme offsets often funnel power so tightly that accuracy suffers at first.

While more aggressive offsets provide more bias, the Tactik 2.0’s balanced midpoint offers the best blend. You get noticeable improvements to ground balls, passing, and shooting without an adjustment period. It’s an offset layout optimized for all-around play.

For offensive players who rely on finesse play as much as power shots, the Tactik 2.0’s offset hits the sweet spot. And faceoff specialists can clamp and control draws with confidence right from the first whistle.

By avoiding too much scoop canting, Maverik nailed durable, versatile performance with the Tactik 2.0. The head excels at everything from picks to power moves thanks to its balanced offset design.

Textured Grip Zones Enhance Control

Along with its upgraded structural technologies, the Maverik Tactik 2.0 features several exterior design elements to improve handling and control.

The head incorporates textured grip zones along the lower sidewalls and tapered throat. These textured patches provide extra friction to keep the stick locked in your hands during play.

The grip areas come into play any time you need total control of your stick. Whether cradling through traffic on a clear or protecting your stick in a scrum, the texturing ensures solid contact.

During passing, the grip zones give you added confidence placing feeds in tight windows or right on target. Your hands remain stable for precision off-ball passing. Shooting also benefits from the locked-in feel, preventing any slippage on wind-ups.

For face-off midfielders, the grip texture provides leverage when jostling for possession. You can clamp and maintain control of the ball even when getting pressed by an opponent. Attackmen also appreciate the stable grip when absorbing checks while initiating dodges.

The textured grip on the Tactik 2.0 is surprisingly tacky without feeling sticky or altering release checks. Maverik managed to strike a perfect blend of friction, comfort, and responsiveness.

While these grip zones seem minor, every bit of control matters at the elite levels. Securing possession off draws, hitting cutters in transition, or finishing shots all require stick confidence. The Tactik 2.0’s grip areas keep the ball in your hands when it counts most.

Between passing, shooting, cradling, and protecting, having a locked-in connection to your stick is crucial. The grip texture built into the Tactik 2.0 gives offensive players an edge with every touch, pass, and possession.

Tactik 2.0 Excels for Faceoff Specialists

While designed for offensive players, the Maverik Tactik 2.0 also excels as a faceoff head thanks to several key features.

The offset scoop and sidewalls provide excellent control and ball direction when going after draws. The canted scoop helps guide ground balls into your stick’s pocket when raking or clamping.

The EnduraForm rails deliver a rigid yet lightweight clamping platform. You get more clamping force without extra weight tiring out your hands and wrists.

Once you secure possession, the aligned sidewalls make it easy to direct ground balls and start transitions. The inward bias centers the ball automatically as you cradle upfield.

During faceoff battles, the textured grip areas keep your hands locked onto the stick. You maintain control even when getting pressed and hounded by wings on the draw.

Midfielders who take faceoffs can also keep the Tactik 2.0 on during offensive sets. The same traits that make it great for draws translate into playmaking up-field.

The EnduraForm rails provide a durable yet lightweight frame that keeps its stiffness overtime. Repeated clamping and battles at the X won’t soften or warp the head.

Plus, you can string the Tactik 2.0 with a mid/low pocket placement suited for facing off that doesn’t hinder your throwing. The customizable setup provides the best of both worlds.

While specialized FOGO heads exist, they’re only built for facing off. The Tactik 2.0 eliminates the need to swap sticks after draws by excelling at both. Faceoff middies get one versatile head that handles everything.

Stiff Rail X Design Provides Stability on Checks

The integrated Rail X sidewall construction gives the Maverik Tactik 2.0 one of its standout performance benefits – excellent stability against checks, hacks, and slashes.

The EnduraForm polymer bonded to the sidewall rails creates an incredibly stiff frame that resists bending and warping. This rigid structure maintains its shape even when hammered by defenders’ sticks.

During ground ball scrums, the Rail X technology provides a rock-solid backbone that secures possession. You can flip up grounders with confidence even while getting whacked repeatedly.

On dodges, the Tactik 2.0 maintains its integrity when absorbing checks. The ball won’t jar loose or pop out on contact thanks to the head’s stiffness.

The technology also keeps the head stable during passing and shooting under pressure. You get crisp execution without flutter, even when throwing on the run or off-balance.

During rides and battles behind the net, the Rail X system protects ball security. You won’t see uncontrolled pops fly out of the head under harassment from defenders.

While carbon fiber and alloy handles get all the credit for improving durability, Maverik’s Rail X is a game-changer for head strength. The integrated polymer withstands abuse all over the field for confident play through traffic.

For today’s defenses fixated on disrupting hands and sticking offensive players, stiffness is crucial. The Tactik 2.0’s EnduraForm rails set a new standard for maintaining composure against relentless pressure.

Channeled Outriggers Add Control Around the Perimeter

The Maverik Tactik 2.0 incorporates channeled outriggers along the lower sidewalls to improve control and feel around the perimeter.

Outriggers act as protective rails along the bottom corners of the head. By channeling these outriggers inward, Maverik directs errant passes back into the head’s sweet spot.

During sloppy catches or rebounds, the channeled outriggers help collect the ball before it bounds out of play. You retain more possession on imperfect feeds or 50/50 grounders.

On perimeter passes, like skip feeds or dumps behind, the angled outriggers prevent squirting. The ball is directed back to the pocket’s center even on off-target throws.

Similarly, outside shots glance off the outriggers and stay on track, rather than careening wide. You get more accuracy on the field’s peripheries for dodging midfielders and shooters behind the arc.

For players who work the alleys on isolation drives or move inside-out for their shot, control along the sidelines is crucial. The Tactik 2.0’s channeled outriggers greatly minimize errant hops on awkward catches.

While outriggers normally just provide protection, Maverik optimized them for shaping play as well. By channeling outside passes back inside, the Tactik 2.0 enhances control all around the perimeter.

For teams that value fleet-footed dodgers and shifty off-ball movement, retained possession is everything. The Tactik 2.0’s outriggers make the most of every pass, catch, and ground ball.

Multiple Colorways Available for Custom Looks

Along with its performance upgrades, the Maverik Tactik 2.0 is available in a variety of colorways to match team styles or player preferences.

The head comes in bright, team-friendly tones like Cardinal, Neon Lime, Orange Crush, and Metallic Blue. These vibrant hues help teammates easily identify each other on the field.

For a more subtle effect, the Tactik 2.0 also comes in darker options like Black, Graphite, and Moon Shadow. These provide a stealthier, “under the radar” aesthetic.

No matter if you want your head to pop or blend in, there’s a colorway to match. The variety covers anything from flashy shooter’s heads to more low-key midfielder setups.

The different color options let you coordinate the Tactik 2.0 with matching gloves, pads, cleats, and other gear. Goalies can also match their head to their helmet color for a cohesive look.

While largely cosmetic, choosing the right colorway reflects your style and personality on the field. Flashy creatives may opt for bright neon hues, while more serious players stick with basic black.

Having multiple options available within the same head model simplifies the ordering process as well. Coaches can outfit whole teams with matching heads in custom colors.

With the performance benefits covered, Maverik still delivers style with the Tactik 2.0. The bold colorways cater to a wide range of tastes and team aesthetics.

Tactik 2.0 Compares Favorably to Other Elite Heads

The Maverik Tactik 2.0 stacks up well versus other top-tier offensive heads like the Nike CEO and STX Surgeon 500.

Like the Tactik 2.0, the CEO provides an offset scoop and channeled sidewalls for superior control. However, the CEO lacks integrated sidewalls for extra stiffness. It also forgoes grip zones for added handling.

The Surgeon 500 utilizes a unique exoskeleton design with extended sidewall rails. However, its flat scoop lacks the control and channeling of the Tactik 2.0’s offset. The Surgeon also provides fewer stringing options.

In terms of technology, the Tactik 2.0 combines the best elements of both competitors. The EnduraForm rail walls match the CEO’s rigidity while providing even more durability. And the Tactik 2.0’s scoop and pocket placement outclass the Surgeon 500’s versatility.

Weighing in at only 4.9oz, the Tactik 2.0 is lighter than both the 5.3oz CEO and 5.0oz Surgeon 500. This reduces fatigue, especially for faceoff specialists and offensive middies.

The Tactik 2.0 also retains its pop longer through seasons of use. The EnduraForm and Rail X maintain stiffness that even premium alloys like the CEO can lose over time.

While the CEO and Surgeon 500 are both elite heads, the Tactik 2.0 provides better shooting, control, durability, and customization. And Maverik includes HyperLite mesh pockets for quick break-in out of the box.

For the price of $89.99, the Tactik 2.0 competes favorably even with sticks costing $30 more. Given the premium technologies and versatility, it’s an exceptional value proposition.

Key Specs of the Maverik Tactik 2.0

Here are some key specifications and dimensions for the Maverik Tactik 2.0 lacrosse head:

• Head Length: 6 inches
• Head Width: 6 inches at widest point
• Scoop Depth: 2 inches
• Sidewall Height: 2 inches
• Throat Width: 1.8 inches
• Offset/Cant: 3 degrees
• Weight: 4.9 oz
• Material: EnduraForm polymer (sidewalls), aircraft-grade alloy (scoop, clip)
• Sidewall Construction: Integrated EnduraForm rails (Rail X technology)
• Top String Holes: Split top, 3 per side
• Side String Holes: 2 per side above first diamond
• Bottom String Holes: 1 per side

With its total length of 6 inches, width of 6 inches, and below 5 ounce weight, the Tactik 2.0 provides a nice blend of ball control and quick handling.

The offset scoop, EnduraForm sidewalls, and stringing versatility cater to a variety of pocket placements and playing styles.

No matter your position or offensive role, the Tactik 2.0 specs deliver an excellent all-around tool for facilitating playmaking.

Final Recommendation on the Maverik Tactik 2.0

After analyzing its technologies and design elements, the Maverik Tactik 2.0 stands out as one of the most versatile and valuable lacrosse heads currently available.

With its integrated Rail X sidewalls, strategically offset scoop, and HyperLite mesh pocket, the Tactik 2.0 caters to field players across positions. Attackmen, midfielders, and faceoff specialists will all find benefits tailored for their style.

The stiff yet lightweight frame provides excellent durability and ball control through any amount of contact. You get confident execution when being harassed by defenders both on-ball and within crowds.

The Tactik 2.0 also offers unmatched customization between its stringing options and Tunable Offset. You can create your ideal pocket placement, channel, and sweet spot bias.

Given the total performance package and flexibility, the sub-$100 price point makes the Tactik 2.0 a steal. It competes admirably even against heads costing $120 or more.

For players seeking one dependable head for all facets of the game, it’s hard to beat the Maverik Tactik 2.0. The optimized offset scoop and premium sidewalls come together in a product built for the modern game.

Provides Value and Versatility for All Positions

One final aspect that makes the Maverik Tactik 2.0 such a noteworthy head is its versatility supporting all offensive positions at a reasonable price.

Attackmen benefit from the deep pocket options, control around the crease, and solid shooting performance. The Tactik 2.0 becomes an extension of their stickhandling and playmaking skillset.

For midfielders, the quick release and crisp passing cater perfectly to up-tempo transition play. And faceoff middies can take the Tactik 2.0 straight from the draw into offensive sets.

Even faceoff specialists will appreciate the control and durability when battling at the X. The grip zones and stiff EnduraForm rails excel in the trenches.

Across the board, players focused on finesse, power, or athleticism can maximize their abilities with the Tactik 2.0.

And with a retail price under $100, it provides elite technologies and quality at a budget-friendly point. The value proposition is outstanding compared to heads over $100.

Between its well-rounded performance and reasonable cost, the Tactik 2.0 is arguably the top overall value head in Maverik’s lineup.

For players who want versatility without breaking the bank, or simply desire one head to take on both box and field play, the Tactik 2.0 is an obvious choice. It delivers on all fronts.