Reviews

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Hammer Lacrosse Heads

Overview of Hammer Lacrosse and Their Top Heads

When it comes to lacrosse heads, Hammer is one of the top brands out there. Founded in 2010, Hammer quickly made a name for itself by producing high-quality and innovative lacrosse gear. Two of their most popular heads are the Omega and the U, which offer slightly different playing styles.

The Omega head is known for its lightweight yet durable design. Made out of tough yet flexible materials, it gives players excellent ball control and hold. The Scoop and sidewall design on the Omega promote crisp passing, shooting, and catching. Meanwhile, the U head has stiffer sidewalls and a pinched scoop, making it perfect for aggressive middies. The U head can really withstand checks and is ideal for quick stick situations.

Both the Omega and U heads come in a variety of stylish colorways so players can customize their style. The heads also meet all NCAA and NFHS requirements, so you never have to worry about stringing them illegally. With precise pocket placement and stringing, Hammer heads can improve any player’s game.

When shopping for a new Hammer lacrosse head, it’s important to consider your position and playing style. Middies and attackmen may prefer the Omega for its versatility, while defenders benefit from the U head’s extra stiffness. Reading lacrosse head reviews can provide additional insight into the performance of each head. With the right head choice and stringing, Hammer lacrosse gear takes your game to the next level.

Omega’s Lightweight Yet Durable Design

One of the standout features of the Hammer Omega head is its incredibly lightweight yet durable design. Weighing in at only 4.8 ounces, the Omega is one of the lightest heads on the market. This lightweight construction gives players enhanced speed and quickness on the field. However, don’t let the lightweight design fool you – this head is extremely durable and built to last.

The Omega gets its lightweight properties from a combination of materials. It features a titanium alloy handle which is both lightweight and weather/impact-resistant. Hammer also incorporated AL50 alloy metals into the Scoop and sidewalls, which shaves precious ounces off the overall weight. This high-quality alloy blend maintains its stiffness and integrity over time, preventing warping or denting issues.

Despite being lightweight, the Omega head passes all structural integrity tests with flying colors. Hammer put the head through grueling stress simulations to guarantee its performance and longevity. Even after extensive use, it retains its original shape and stiffness. For players who tend to bend or warp heads frequently, the durability of the Omega is a true game-changer.

The lightweight build combined with cutting-edge stringing tech gives players enhanced ball control. Quick, accurate passes and shots are possible due to the head’s sturdy yet flexible scoop and sidewalls. With less weight to throw around, the Omega promotes free movement and whip on shots. Finding the perfect pocket and stringing setup unlocks the true potential of this innovative Hammer lacrosse head.

In summary, the Omega impresses with its featherlight yet rock-solid construction. Lacrosse players who value both speed and durability will appreciate this carefully engineered Hammer head. The advanced alloy blend places it a step above most heads in its weight class in terms of resilience and performance over time. For midfielders, attackmen, and ball carriers who want every competitive advantage possible, the Hammer Omega delivers.

Omega’s Excellent Ball Control and Hold

In addition to its lightweight design, the Hammer Omega head is highly regarded for its excellent ball control and hold capabilities. The head’s carefully engineered scoop, sidewall, and throat give players superior command over ground balls, catching, cradling, and passing.

The Omega’s scoop features a precise contour to easily direct ground balls into the pocket. Its stiff yet flexible rim moves with the ball to gain immediate control on grounders. The sidewalls have a unique shape to promote effective ball retention all the way up and down the head. Hammer strategically pinched the sidewalls nearer the throat, allowing for excellent ball control during passing and shooting.

Moreover, the Omega head comes pre-engineered with optimal ball hold at the throat. Hammer optimized the ball stop shape and location to prevent clipping on passes while maintaining hold through checks and contact. Players can string the head traditionally or make use of the removable ball stop for even more customization.

With advanced stringing techniques, players can unlock the Omega’s full potential for command and feel. Adding a mid or low pocket with a good channel provides the control needed for crisp feeds and shots. The head’s pinched mid-section really helps cradle and direct the ball accurately. Stringing nylon across the top of the sidewall openings enhances hold during one-handed and off-hand catches.

In the end, the Omega gives lacrosse players an almost unfair advantage in ball control and retention. Its strategically designed frame combined with customizable stringing provides excellent command. For developing superior stick skills and box game, the Hammer Omega is a go-to option. Control the ball better to control the game.

Custom Stringing Options for the Omega

One of the most appealing aspects of the Hammer Omega head is the endless custom stringing possibilities it provides. With the Omega, players can dial in the perfect pocket shape, whip, hold, and release to match their position and playing style.

Given the head’s mid-high flex point, stringers have a lot of flexibility in choosing pocket placement. A mid-placed pocket gives a nice blend of hold and release for versatile players. Meanwhile, attackmen may prefer a lower pocket for added whip and quicker shots. The Omega’s sidewall shape accommodates tight channel pockets extremely well for superior control.

In terms of shooting strings, the Omega allows players to string in Vs, Us, or straight ladder styles. The straight rail along the scoop provides a consistent and predictable release point for outside shooters. Adding a nylon shooter at the throat also improves hold and aim for wicked side-arm shots. Lacrosse trick enthusiasts will also appreciate the Omega’s excellent hold for behind-the-back cradling.

For pattern consistency, Hammer equipped the Omega with pre-drilled sidewall holes. Stringers simply need to loop the sidewalls through at the desired location. The Omega also plays very well with both traditional leathers and synthetic shooters. Trying both provides noticeable differences in feel on passes, shots, and scooping.

With the right skills, stringers can truly maximize the Omega’s potential through custom stringing. Tweaking the pocket shape, width, whip, channel, and shooters enables you to customize the head exactly for your game. The Omega gives you the top-tier materials and engineering, while you supply the personalized pattern.

Hammer U: Aggressive Head for Middies

In contrast to the all-around Omega, the Hammer U lacrosse head is optimized specifically for aggressive middies and lockdown defenders. With its extra stiff sidewalls and pinched scoop, the U head gives players the control and durability needed to dominate between the lines.

The Hammer U features a noticeably stiffer sidewall construction compared to the Omega. This stiffness enhances ball retention during checks and contact. It also provides superior scooping power – enabling players to directive ground balls exactly where they want. The U’s scoop has a more defined pinch which further improves control on grounders.

In addition, the U head maintains its structure and pocket shape even when hammered on repeatedly. Its thickened alloy metals on the scoop, sidewalls, and throat stand up to the abuse of push checks, slashes, and cross-checks. Hammer put the U through intense lab testing to guarantee its performance through all sorts of impacts.

With its stiff profile and narrow channel, the U head excels at quick sticks and tight feeds. The defined pinch point gives excellent hold and aim for blind passes and shots on the run. The U also provides a lot of whip on overhand crank shots, making it a threat from way outside.

For middies and defenders who play with an aggressive edge, the Hammer U brings the perfect blend of durability, control, and feel. Dominate ground balls, take checks in stride, and fire screaming shots with the Hammer U lacrosse head.

U Head’s Ability to Withstand Checks

When designing the Hammer U head, durability was a top priority. This head can truly withstand the abuse from slashes, pushes, and cross-checks that middies and defenders endure each game. The U maintains its structure and pocket shape even after taking a beating.

The stiffened sidewalls and scoop of the U head allow it to stand up to checks with no warping or denting. Hammer reinforced the critical contact points with aircraft-grade alloy for maximum impact resistance. Although lightweight, these premium alloys maintain their stiffness and flex even after huge collisions.

In lab testing, the Hammer U stood up admirably even after hundreds of simulated checks in the same spot. The head structure retained its original shape and did not develop any weak points or deformation. Players can have confidence that the U won’t bend or break during play.

The U head’s ability to withstand checks also preserves the pocket shape game after game. Heads that lose their stiffness often have collar and channel deformation from checks, altering the pocket feel. However, the U’s sturdy composition prevents this, ensuring excellent pocket consistency over time.

Additionally, the U head is built to handle the inadvertent slashes that occur during ground ball scrums and contact play. Its scoop and sidewalls will not chip or crack when contacted by a follow-through. The head won’t suddenly give out if accidentally stepped on or impacted.

For players who play an aggressive, physical style of lacrosse, the Hammer U delivers the ideal blend of ball control and sturdiness. Middies and defenders can check and be checked with confidence knowing the U head can handle the abuse. Dominate between the lines without worrying about damage thanks to Hammer’s precision engineering.

Perfect for Quick Stick Situations

The Hammer U head thrives in quick stick passing and shooting situations thanks to its stiff profile and pinched scoop design. The scoop’s defined pinch point gives players excellent control for blind feeds or shots on the run.

With the U head’s minimal flex, players can direct wicked passes and shots with precision. The stiffened sidewalls prevent flutter allowing for truer ball flight. When cranking a pass or shot, the ball goes exactly where the head points rather than spraying.

This precision comes in handy when quick-sticking to a cutter on the crease or an open player up top. The U head’s excellent ball control enables pinpoint feeds into even the tightest windows. Attackmen will appreciate how the defined pinch aids accuracy while shooting on the fly.

On snag and shoot plays, the U head provides a very consistent release point off the scoop. As opposed to a deeply pinched head, the U’s more rounded pinch enables excellent feel on quick outside shots. Face-dodge an alley and bury the shot before the defender recovers.

The Hammer U also maintains its pocket shape beautifully allowing for solid retention during quick sticks. Superior string materials prevent sagging while the head itself resists collapsing after checks. The pocket stays crisp which is critical for clean handling on the run.

Whether looking for precision on feeds or added whip on shots, the Hammer U brings excellent performance in quick stick situations. The head provides the ideal blend of speed, control, and power that creates opportunities in transition or unsettled offense. Gain an edge over opponents with this defender’s dream head.

Comparison of U and Omega Flex and Stiffness

When choosing between Hammer’s Omega and U heads, one of the biggest differences is flex and overall stiffness. The U head has noticeably stiffer sidewalls and scoop than the Omega, making it ideal for more physical positions.

Hammer engineered the U head with thicker alloy metals concentrated in the sidewalls and scoop. This adds structural integrity for handling checks while also improving ground ball control. In contrast, the Omega utilizes a more minimalist lightweight alloy frame.

In stiffness tests, the U head has very minimal flex or vibration when pushed on. It retains its shape without budging, providing superior ball control. The Omega exhibits noticeably more give and flex when checked or impacted. This aids its lightweight feel but reduces stiffness.

The tighter pinch and thicker scoop on the U head make it stellar for ground ball scooping. It has no problem plowing through box-outs or scooping through traffic. Meanwhile, the Omega’s flex can allow crowded ground balls to squirrel out occasionally.

U head’s sturdy profile maintains pocket shape and crispness far longer than the Omega. While great initially, Omega pockets tend to soften up over time with use. The U’s stiffness keeps the pocket uniform season after season.

In the end, the Hammer U caters to players craving maximum stiffness for physicality and control. The Omega offers a more balanced approach for finesse players valuing some flex for feel and maneuverability. Considering your position and preferences helps determine the best Hammer head for your game.

Choosing Between Colors and Graphics

One of the fun parts of choosing a new Hammer lacrosse head is selecting the colors and graphics. Hammer offers their Omega and U heads in a wide variety of paint and decal styling to match players’ preferences.

For team heads, Hammer provides custom color matching services. Simply send your team colors and they can replicate the hues and placement. Match your helmet, gloves, and shaft for a cohesive style.

Hammer also has dozens of pre-designed colorways spanning multiple colors and fade effects. Options range from basic primary colors to intricate fades and patterns. Go bold with an electric green or orange head or keep it clean with matte black.

In addition to colors, Hammer lets players customize the head graphics. Choose glossy or matte decals in team logos, numbers, flags or mascots. Position-specific decals like “D-Middie” or “FOGO” are also available. Add some swagger with a wordmark like “Snipe City” or “Worm Burner.”

Consider lighter colors and minimal decals if looking for a head that’s NCAA compliant. Avoid white and gray heads which show scuff marks too easily. Don’t overdo it on decals which increase weight marginally.

Finding the Hammer head graphics and colors that perfectly express your style makes lacrosse even more fun. And intimidating your opponents with an eye-catching head doesn’t hurt either. Hammer’s customization options help you craft your identity on the field.

Finding the Best Price on Hammer Heads

Hammer lacrosse heads like the Omega and U deliver top-tier performance and features. However, these heads do come at a premium cost. With some savvy shopping, you can find Hammer heads for reasonable prices.

First, browse lacrosse specialty websites like Lax.com, LacrosseMonkey, or EastCoastDyes searching for current Hammer head sales or promo discounts. Signing up for their newsletters provides alerts on deals and price drops.

Also check the clearance sections where last year’s models go on sale. The head technology itself doesn’t change much annually so previous years are still a good option. Avoid counterfeit sites and unauthorized dealers selling “too good to be true” prices.

Consider buying Hammer heads in bulk to qualify for volume discounts. Talk to your club or high school coach about making a team purchase. The more players who order, the lower the per head cost will be.

Used Hammer heads in good condition can also provide big savings. Check SidelineSwap or lacrosse forums for players selling lightly used heads at discounts. Ensure the head shows no signs of damage or warping.

With some persistence, you can land the coveted Hammer Omega or U head without breaking the bank entirely. Taking advantage of sales, volume discounts, and secondhand deals help get this top equipment on a budget.

Proper Stringing Technique for Hammer Heads

To maximize the performance of Hammer lacrosse heads, proper stringing technique is critical. Taking the time to string the Omega or U head correctly results in superior pocket feel, ball control, and shot speed.

Always use high-quality mesh and stringing kits when stringing a Hammer head. Cheap mesh will bag out quickly while bargain stringing won’t secure knots well. Investing in premium materials prevents issues.

Follow the manufacturer’s stringing instructions precisely for hole spacing and pattern. Hammer engineers each head’s stringing configuration for ideal ball control. Deviating from recommendations can reduce performance.

Set diamond top string tension carefully – tight enough to hold shape but not too tight to warp sidewalls. Interlocks should be snug but not suffocating. Check sidewall hole alignment as you string to prevent pulling.

Consider the player’s position and preferences when choosing shooting string placement. Mid-pocket styles offer the best all-around feel while low pockets boost whip. Pockets should be evenly spaced.

For beginner stringers, watching online stringing tutorials can help refine techniques and avoid mistakes. Learn proper knot tying, row stacking, channel forming, and shooting string placement.

With practice and care, you can string an exquisite pocket on Hammer heads. Patience and precision in stringing translates to superior performance on the field. Take the time to master stringing fundamentals for a competitive advantage.

Ensuring the Head is NCAA and NFHS Legal

When stringing a Hammer lacrosse head, it’s important to ensure the finished product meets all NCAA and NFHS rules. Avoid illegal pockets that could lead to penalties and ejections.

The primary factors determining legality are pocket depth and shooting string placement. For NFHS, pockets must be strung such that the top of the ball remains above the bottom of the sidewall when placed in the head. Pockets over 4 inches deep are illegal.

NCAA rules prohibit pockets where the ball sinks below the bottom of the sidewall. Shooting strings must be located within 4 inches of the scoop, with only one string at the neckline.

Using mesh with a soft focus like HeroMesh ensures you can push the limits of pocket depth without going overboard. Softer meshes won’t bag out as quickly to become too deep.

Be conservative with sidewall stringing tightness – overtightening can lead to warping and reduced depth. Use straight or slightly angled shooters to stay legal.

Test pocket depth regularly by placing a ball in and confirming it sits above the plastic. Cut excess string loops if sagging over time. Staying NCAA and NFHS legal eliminates any pocket depth issues.

While tempting to max out pocket whip, ensure Hammer head stringing remains compliant. Follow all guidelines and routinely measure depth to avoid penalties for illegal pockets.

Tips for Caring for Your Hammer Head

Investing in a high-performance Hammer lacrosse head requires proper care and maintenance to maximize longevity. Follow these tips to keep your Hammer Omega or U head playing like new.

Rinse heads with clean water after each use to prevent dirt, debris, and sweat from drying on the head. Over time, buildup can degrade the head and affect ball control.

Periodically use a lacrosse head cleaner solution to break down residue and restore grip. Cleaners prevent premature wearing of the scoop and sidewalls.

Avoid dragging heads on the ground when not in use. The abrasive contact can erode the plastic and cause cracking. Place on stands or hold when moving between drills.

Check stringing routinely for signs of loosening or fraying. Re-tighten knots or replace aging shooters to preserve pocket integrity and shape.

Spot clean scuff marks on the head using rubbing alcohol to remove dirt buildup. Use Spar-varnish on white heads to conceal marks.

Store heads out of direct sunlight when not playing to prevent UV damage. The concentrated exposure can make plastic brittle over time.

With conscientious care and maintenance, a Hammer head can deliver seasons of elite performance. Protect your investment by keeping it pristine through routine cleaning, inspection and TLC.

Finding the Best Price on Hammer Heads

Tips for Caring for Your Hammer Head