In-Depth Review of the Stringking Mark 2D Head
As one of the most popular defensive lacrosse heads on the market today, the Stringking 2D has gained a cult-like following among lax bros looking for the ultimate weapon out on the field. But does this head really live up to all the hype? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the 2D such a lethal option for shutdown defenders across the country.
Right off the bat, you’ll notice the 2D has an incredibly stiff yet lightweight design optimized for those bone-crunching checks. The head uses Stringking’s patented truss design with dimensional polymer sidewalls to deliver maximum stiffness without adding extra weight. So you get insane ball-dislodging power on checks without slowing down your foot speed. How does it stack up numbers-wise? The 2D clocks in at only 5.1 oz yet boasts a whopping 30% more stiffness than the average defensive head. All I can say is: good luck to those attackmen trying to dodge against this thing!
In addition to the rigidity, the shape and scoop of the 2D also make it ideal for getting those crucial ground balls and spark transition. The head has an aggressive, flat scoop that just gobbles up grounders. Stringking also tweaked the shape compared to the Mark 2 to be slightly wider at the throat which increases your catching range on errant passes or high bouncers. An extra bit of width up top also aids in checking – allowing you to really lay some nasty slap checks across your opponent’s hands and stick.
Of course, the 2D isn’t all about the checks. It also boasts impressive passing, throwing, and clearing capabilities you want in a great d-pole head. The sidewall design adds extra hold and control on big clears and outlet passes. And the quick release offset sidewalls make zipping passes upfield effortless. The 2D also has a nice round scoop (despite being flat) for better accuracy on longer clears. Add in the fact that it holds up well even with a mid to high pocket stringing, and you’ve got the total clearing machine every LSM dreams of!
While the 2D is ideal for pole players at every position, I’d especially recommend it for LSMs and close defenders who rely on speedy footwork and quick sticks. The insane ball-dislodging stiffness allows you to absolutely abuse and control cutters – swatting away any pass or shot attempts. If you take pride in being an absolute shutdown beast on defense, the 2D really becomes an extension of your game. Other d-poles may focus more on physicality or offensive runs, but this head is made for locking off your mark and causing absolute mayhem between the lines.
So if you’re looking for the most complete defensive weapon to strike fear into the hearts of attackers everywhere, then the Stringking 2D is certainly worth adding to your arsenal. Just ask the poor attackmen who have to dodge against that reinforced offset cradle and ultra-stiff sidewalls. They’ll be crying to the refs for illegal cross-checks…even when you’re playing clean!
Stringking 2D vs. Competitor Defensive Heads
The Stringking 2D has quickly become one of the hottest defensive lacrosse heads on the market. But how exactly does it stack up against some of the other top defense heads from brands like STX, Maverik, Warrior, and Brine? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the 2D vs. its biggest competitors.
First up is the STX Hammer. This is one of the stiffest and most durable heads out there making it a favorite for hard-hitting defenders. The Hammer uses STX’s EnduraForm polymer and a thick offset sidewall design to deliver awesome ball-stopping power. It’s also got a nice rounded scoop for scooping up ground balls. However, it is a bit heavier than the 2D and doesn’t have quite as quick of a release on checks and passes. The 2D takes the cake in the stiffness department with its insane 30% stiffness advantage over average heads.
Next is the Maverik Tank. Built for abusive, physical defenders, the Tank has some nice technologies like their Armor Ridge rails for extra sidewall support. It also has a stiff, flat scoop and wide face shape to help win ground balls and deliver checks. One downside is that it can be a bit “clanky” and loud when passing and shooting. The 2D delivers a lot more finesse and control thanks to its precision engineered sidewalls. So while the Tank is ideal for the take-no-prisoners type of defender, the 2D is more versatile.
Warrior also makes some solid defensive heads like the Burn and the Revolver X. Both have great stiffness and checkability. However, some players complain that Warrior heads can lack ball control and feel “cheap.” The 2D combines rigid construction with excellent feel and ball control – the best of both worlds. And while heads like the Revolver X are designed with offensive runs in mind, the 2D is built first and foremost for impenetrable defense.
And finally we have the Brine Clutch 3.0. Known for its consistency and reliability, the Clutch is a good all-around option. It provides decent stiffness combined with good passing and shooting characteristics. However, the Clutch isn’t quite as stiff or ball-dislodging as the 2D. It also has more plastic in the construction, so it can’t match the feather-light feel of Stringking’s dimensional polymer and truss design.
At the end of the day, the 2D combines the extreme stiffness needed for tenacious defense with the refined feel and ball control required in a versatile lacrosse head. Other defensive heads may excel in one area or another. But none provide the complete package of sturdy construction, precision passing, and bone-rattling checks delivered by the Stringking 2D. Once you string this bad boy up you’ll have the confidence to shut down the best attackers out there and look good doing it!
Pros and Cons of the Stringking Mark 2D
The Stringking 2D has emerged as one of the top defensive lacrosse heads on the market, and for good reason. This head is stacked with technology and design features to create the ultimate defensive weapon. But what exactly are the biggest pros and cons of the 2D? Let’s break it down.
Starting with the pros, the main highlight is definitely the game-changing stiffness. Stringking uses a truss framework design with dimensional polymer to make the 2D an insane 30% stiffer than average heads. This leads to unparalleled checking abilities – you can absolutely pulverize shots, dislodge balls, and throw nasty slap checks with this head. The 2D is also featherlight, ringing in at only 5.1 oz. So you get all that stiffness without any extra weight slowing you down.
In addition to the stiffness, the 2D is also designed for superior ground ball play. It has an aggressive, flat scoop that just gobbles up grounders. And the widened throat lets you snag passes and high bouncers more easily. On clears and passes, the sidewall design adds extra hold and control while the quick release sidewalls make throwing upfield a breeze.
Really the only downsides to the 2D would be the stiffer, more “dead” feel which some offensive-minded poles may not love. It also requires a very strong stringing to optimize the deep pocket, which can be tricky for beginners. And with that insane stiffness, you’ll need to string it loose enough to have some give on cradling. Going too tight can make it really pingy and difficult to control.
The 2D is also designed first and foremost for defense. While it can work well for LSMs or D-middies who go both ways, poles who take a ton of runs upfield may prefer a head with more flex and a quicker release like the Stringking Mark 2. Some also say the 2D lacks some “personality” due to its very stiff, controlled feel.
At the end of the day, the pros of extreme stiffness, awesome ground ball play, and precise passing clearly outweigh any minor downsides for players who rely on speed and physicality on defense. The 2D gives you the tools to absolutely smother opponents with ball-snatching checks and ground ball dominance. Any defender who prides themselves on high-pressure D and a quick transition game will fall in love with this head once they string it up and take it for a spin.
Ideal Defensive Positions and Players for the 2D Head
With its extreme stiffness and dominant checking abilities, the Stringking 2D is purpose-built for defense. But which specific defensive positions and player types will get the most out of this head?
Starting with positions, the 2D really shines for close defenders and LSMs. For close D, the insane stiffness allows you to relentlessly harass and control cutters with ball-dislodging slap checks. The head is perfect for locking off dodgers and causing disruption across the middle of the field. For LSMs, the 2D provides great ground ball capabilities along with the checking power needed for scrappy play between the lines.
D-middies who go both ways will also love the 2D. While designed for defense, it still provides solid passing, throwing, and clearing abilities useful for offensive sets and transitions. Just don’t expect quite as much finesse as a purpose-built offensive head. FOGOs could also consider the 2D for its ground ball and control benefits, although face-off midfielders may want more flex and quickness from a head like the Weapon X.
As for player types, the 2D is ideal for takeaway artists who rely on foot speed, agility, and high-pressure defense. Think scrappy, aggressive poles who love knocking the ball loose and jumpstarting fast breaks going the other way. The head really rewards tenacious defenders who want to smother their matchup and cause chaos.
More physical, brute force checkers may still prefer heads like the Hammer or the Tank built to take (and dish out) a beating. Finesse players who rely on poke checks and positioning over physicality may also want something with a bit more flex and feel. But for speed demons who play up-in-your-face, smashmouth D, the 2D accentuates these strengths.
Overall, the 2D is engineered to be the ultimate sidekick for a fast, disruptive defender looking to lock down cutters and midfielder dodgers across the field. If your game is built on lighting-quick footwork, agile stick checks that strip away possession, and scooping up errant passes, then the Stringking 2D will quickly become your new best friend out there.
How Pocket and Stringing Impact 2D Performance
While the Stringking 2D head itself provides awesome stiffness and checking power right out of the box, stringing it up properly is key to maximizing its potential. The right pocket and stringing setup can take this head’s performance to the next level.
Most players prefer a mid to deep pocket with the 2D to add some “give” and increase hold. A shallow pocket negates the flexibility you want, while a deeper pocket helps control those rocket passes and shots to the stick. You’ll also need strong shooting strings and a tight channel to really optimize the 2D for catching and control.
Using a soft mesh is also advised to get the deeper pocket you need. Hard meshes make stringing the 2D very difficult and can result in an overly stiff setup. A soft mesh helps lighten the stiffness while allowing you to string a nice deep pocket. It also increases hold for catching those Mean Mug-style checks right to the chest.
When stringing up the sidewalls, going too tight can make the 2D really “pingy” and hard to control. The goal is to find the sweet spot between a tight channel and just enough give to allow fluid passing and catching. Using thicker shooting strings can help dial in that balance. With the right pocket, the 2D becomes a passing machine even with its ample stiffness.
Lastly, adding a single or double nylon to the bottom stringing helps further soften the scoop and provide flexibility on ground balls. A full nylon bottom string will also increase hold in the pocket. Some players even remove the middle bottom string altogether for a more pinched, controlled channel.
While an absolute beast right out of the package, taking the time to string the 2D properly will unleash its full potential. The right pocket and setup transforms this head into the complete package, with an ideal blend of stiffness for defense and feel for offense. Your specific style and stringing preferences will determine exactly how you tune this head, but a mid to deep pocket with soft mesh is a great starting point.
Tips for Stringing the 2D for Maximum Results
Stringing up a lacrosse head correctly can make all the difference in its performance. And a specialized head like the Stringking 2D requires some specific stringing tweaks to really unlock its full potential. Here are some of my top tips for stringing the 2D for maximum stiffness, control, and checking power.
First, opt for a soft to medium soft mesh. Hard meshes make the 2D way too stiff and kill its versatility. A softer mesh better complements the head’s natural stiffness while allowing you to string a nice deep pocket.
When stringing the diamonds, don’t go too tight. Allow some slight wiggle room in the sidewalls for better feel on passes and catches. Use thicker 1.5 mm or 1.8 mm shooting strings to keep the channel firm but not overly stiff.
Down low, tie off the bottom string using 1-2 nylons to soften the lower sidewalls. This increases flex on ground balls while retaining that locked-in feel up top. You can also try removing the center bottom string altogether for more pinch.
Up top, string a tight top string nestled just below the scoop. This locks in the ball while strengthening the upper sidewalls. I also like to string an interlocking SI near the scoop for added hold and pinch on shots.
In the pocket, string a mid to deep pocket for control. A shallow pocket on the 2D can make catching passes and ripping shots difficult. Go for a pocket that’s just deep enough to add feel while maintaining hold.
Throughout the process, continually check sidewall flexibility vs. stiffness. The goal is to find the ideal balance where the head maintains its structure yet has some give. Be prepared to tweak the diamonds, nylons, and shooting strings until you nail down the perfect pocket.
With the right stringing adjustments in place, the 2D transforms into a complete two-way weapon. You retain that awesome defense-first stiffness while gaining excellent passing, catching and clearing abilities. A dialed-in pocket truly unlocks this head’s full potential on both sides of the ball.
2D Durability and Stiffness for Checking
One of the Stringking 2D’s biggest selling points is its game-changing stiffness and durability. This head is specifically engineered to dish out bone-crunching checks while holding up play after play. Let’s look at how the technologies and design features make this one of the toughest and most rigid heads out there.
The key ingredient is Stringking’s proprietary truss structure which uses reinforcing struts and dimensional polymer to bolster stiffness without adding weight. This results in a head with insane rigidity yet feather-light durability. We’re talking 30% stiffer than your average head at just 5.1 ounces.
In addition to the trussing, the 2D utilizes thick offset sidewalls to increase structure and abrasion resistance along the rails. So you can hack, slash, and throw those Mean Mug checks without compromising the head’s shape or integrity over time.
The materials are also optimized for maximum toughness. Stringking uses premium polymers which hold up better to UV rays, temperature fluctuations, and repeated impacts. Less plastic also reduces the “give” you get with cheaper heads that degrade quicker.
Even the scoop and sidewall cutouts are strategically designed for durability. The scoop maintains full thickness along the edges to prevent cracking or warping. And the angular sidewall cutouts avoid concentrating stress in small areas.
All these technologies work together to provide the necessary stiffness for tenacious defense combined with the strength to withstand endless abuse. When you’re constantly hammering sticks, batted down passes, and clearing through traffic, durability is a must. The 2D has the brawn and fortitude to keep throwing checks and scooping grounders season after season.
Bottom line – this head is built from the ground up to take a beating. When you make destroying your opponent’s hopes and dreams your top priority, the Stringking 2D has the materials and engineering to withstand the punishment that comes with 60 minutes of smashmouth lacrosse.
Best Use Cases and Playing Styles for the Mark 2D
With its specialized stiffness and checking abilities, the Stringking 2D caters to a specific type of defensive player and playing style. This head really shines for scrappy, disruptive defenders who want to get up in opponents’ grills and cause chaos.
For close defenders, the 2D is ideal if you rely on quick sticks and footwork to smother dodgers. The head allows you to clamp down on cutters with relentless slap checks and ball-dislodging pokes. It’s perfect for an aggressive, denying style of defense across the middle of the field.
The 2D also excels for LSMs who have to cover the entire field. You get great ground ball capabilities along with the physicality needed between the lines. For transition defensemen who initiate fast breaks, the 2D gives you the tools to force turnovers and spark clears.
In terms of playing style, this head is optimized for speed and agility over brute force. It really suits scrappy defenders who use active feet, quick sticks, and non-stop motor to frustrate opponents. If your game is built on lighting-quick checks, clears, and ground ball dominance, the 2D enhances these strengths.
The 2D isn’t quite as ideal for poles who just want to hammer opponents out of frustration. For those physical enforcers who rely more on body positioning, this head may play a little stiff. Finesse defenders focused on poke checking may also want something with a bit more give and flexibility.
But for tenacious players who smother their matchup with constant pressure and footwork, the 2D is the perfect sidekick. It gives you the tools to escape dodges, spark fast breaks, and become an all-around disruptive force no offensive player wants across from them. If your defense is built on speed and proactivity over physicality, the 2D accentuates those strengths to dominate between the lines.
Bottom line, this head rewards agile defenders who play with active feet, quick reaction times, and relentless hustle on every possession. For the takeaway artists of the lacrosse world, the Stringking 2D amplifies what you already do best.
Mark 2D vs. Mark 2 for Defenders
With Stringking’s Mark 2 also being a popular option, defenders may wonder how the 2D compares and which head is better suited for their game. While both provide great performance, the 2D does have some key advantages tailored specifically for shutdown defense.
First and foremost, the 2D is significantly stiffer thanks to Stringking’s truss framework design. It provides an insane 30% more rigidity compared to the average head. This allows defenders to lay more jarring slap checks and take away possession. The 2D is simply unmatched when it comes to disruption.
In addition to the stiffness, the 2D has a wider throat and scoop shape optimized for ground balls. It just gobbles up tough grounders and errant passes that are critical for defenders starting the break. The Mark 2 provides a bit more finesse while the 2D dominates ground ball battles.
The 2D also maintains its stiffness and structure over time better than the Mark 2. It holds its shape and pop longer when subjected to endless hacking and slashing. For players who punish their equipment, the 2D is built to withstand the abuse.
Meanwhile, the Mark 2 offers more flexibility and a quicker release on passes. It works well for two-way middies or offensive-minded poles who take initiation runs upfield. The 2 provides a better feel while still being a great option for athletic defenders.
So in summary, the 2D is purpose-built for physical, disruptive defense. Everything from its stiffer scoop and sidewalls to the wider throat is optimized for ground balls, checking, and takeaways. The Mark 2 still works well for defenders but suits a faster, more finesse approach. For pure lock-down D, the 2D is king.
Deciding between the two comes down to your exact position and playing style. Overall though, when it comes to playing hard-nosed, takeaway defense, the Stringking 2D is uniquely designed to bring the pain.
How the 2D Compares to the Original Mark 1
As the latest iteration in the Mark series, the Stringking 2D makes some notable improvements on the original Mark 1. While the Mark 1 is still a great head, the 2D takes performance to the next level for dominant defense.
The biggest upgrade is the increased stiffness and improved strength-to-weight ratio. By utilizing a dimensional polymer truss structure, the 2D eliminates unnecessary material while retaining insane rigidity. It bests the Mark 1 with 30% more stiffness at an ultra-light 5.1 oz weight.
The 2D also has more pronounced sidewall offsets compared to the Mark 1 that increase ball control and make stringing deeper pockets easier. Its wider throat and rounded scoop optimize ground ball pickup – a noticeable improvement over the Mark 1.
When it comes to feel and ball control, the Mark 1 may feel a tad smoother thanks to its softer materials and construction. However, the 2D compensates with precision-tuned sidewalls that increase hold while still providing a quick release.
Durability sees a boost with the 2D as well. The redesigned polymer blend and Strategic Impact Zones stand up better over time against hacking and slashing. Given the abuse most defensive heads take, improved structural integrity is key.
At the end of the day, while the Mark 1 remains a solid option, the 2D fine-tunes the original design with major strides in stiffness, ball control, scooping, and durability. The full composite and truss construction unlock next-level performance tailored specifically for physical, ground ball dominant defense.
So if you’re still using an OG Mark 1 and looking to upgrade your game, the 2D provides noticeable improvements across the board. It takes what players loved about the Mark 1 and optimizes it into a modern, elite-level defensive weapon.
Key Technologies in the 2D Head Design
Packed with proprietary technologies, the Stringking 2D represents a pinnacle of lacrosse head engineering. The key innovations built into this head allow it to achieve unprecedented stiffness, control, and durability for smothering defense.
It all starts with the 360° Truss Structure which utilizes reinforcing polymer struts in all planes to bolster stiffness. By mimicking the framework of a truss bridge, it removes excess material while creating a rigid, yet lightweight shell.
Stringking also employs purpose-designed polymers including Dimensional Fusionex for increased impact resistance and durability. This advanced polymer blend withstands hacking better while providing a crisp feel.
The Control Frame sidewall design is another game-changer. Placing the sidewalls along the outer rails increases ball control while the lowered offset improves hold and absorption of checks.
Strategic Impact Zones reinforce high-stress areas like the scoop, sidewalls, and throats with extra material thickness to prevent cracking or warping. These fortified zones diffuse checks and impacts throughout the head.
The engineers also optimized the shape of the 2D for defense. A wider throat facilitates ground balls, while the angular rail design resists torque and deformation from checks. The rounded scoop also improves ball pickup while clearing.
These technologies work synergistically to create the perfect blend of stiffness, control, and durability needed in an elite defensive head. Stringking pulled out all the stops engineering-wise to develop the most capable lacrosse weapon the sport has seen. The 2D truly represents the next evolution in stopping power.
Mark 2D Pricing and Value Overview
With all its engineering and performance benefits, one may assume the Stringking 2D commands a premium price tag. However, this head actually provides a ton of value relative to competitors when you consider the cost-per-use over a season or career.
The 2D retails for $99.99, which is in line with other elite-level sticks from brands like STX and Maverik. So right off the bat, the pricing is competitive for the category. And because the 2D is optimized for longevity, it maintains its pop and shape longer than most heads.
This extended usable life really maximizes the value. While cheaper heads degrade quickly with use, the 2D still performs at a high level after months of play. The more life you can extract from a head before replacing it, the better the value.
There’s also the intangible benefit of boosting your game. A head like the 2D immediately makes defenders more dominant thanks to the ground ball and checking improvements. When a piece of gear elevates your skills and confidence, that’s worth investing in.
Lastly, because you don’t need to replace the 2D as often, it saves you money over time. Constantly buying new heads adds up quick. The 2D’s durability leads to less frequent purchases and repairs.
At the end of the day, the impact on your game combined with the long-term cost savings make the 2D well worth the initial investment. While not the cheapest head out there, it delivers insane value that players will feel on every ground ball, check, and stop.
Final Verdict – Is the 2D the Best Defensive Head for You?
After running through all the capabilities and technologies packed into this head, it’s clear the Stringking 2D represents an enormous leap for defensive performance. But is it automatically the right choice for every player? Let’s recap the key pros and cons.
For the pros, the game-changing stiffness and durability enable lockdown defense through physicality and disruption. The 2D also provides excellent ground ball and clearing abilities thanks to the wider scoop and throat design.
It’s incredibly lightweight given the rigidity, maximizing speed and footwork. The head feels broken-in and precise right off the shelf with no “break-in” period either. You also get awesome value given the extended lifespan over cheaper heads.
In terms of downsides, the 2D caters to a specific defensive style centered around speed and agility over brute force. Brawlers may want more flex, while finesse defenders benefit from increased feel and ball control.
It also requires an expert stringing job to soften the stiffness while maintaining structure. Beginners may fare better with more naturally flexible heads to string. And attacking players have better options than the 2D for running offensive sets.
So in summary, if you rely on quick footwork, active sticks, ground ball dominance, and smothering pressure as a defender, the 2D is the ultimate game-changing weapon. But it truly excels for disruptive, takeaway style defense over pure physicality or offensive runs upfield.
For scrappy, playmaking poles who want to shut down opponents and spearhead transition offense, the Stringking 2D delivers elite-level performance tailored specifically to your needs. Just be prepared to put in work mastering the stringing nuances required to unlock its full potential across the field.
Key Technologies in the 2D Head Design
Packed with proprietary technologies, the Stringking 2D represents a pinnacle of lacrosse head engineering. The key innovations built into this head allow it to achieve unprecedented stiffness, control, and durability for smothering defense.
It all starts with the 360° Truss Structure which utilizes reinforcing polymer struts in all planes to bolster stiffness. By mimicking the framework of a truss bridge, it removes excess material while creating a rigid, yet lightweight shell.
Stringking also employs purpose-designed polymers including Dimensional Fusionex for increased impact resistance and durability. This advanced polymer blend withstands hacking better while providing a crisp feel.
The Control Frame sidewall design is another game-changer. Placing the sidewalls along the outer rails increases ball control while the lowered offset improves hold and absorption of checks.
Strategic Impact Zones reinforce high-stress areas like the scoop, sidewalls, and throats with extra material thickness to prevent cracking or warping. These fortified zones diffuse checks and impacts throughout the head.
The engineers also optimized the shape of the 2D for defense. A wider throat facilitates ground balls, while the angular rail design resists torque and deformation from checks. The rounded scoop also improves ball pickup while clearing.
These technologies work synergistically to create the perfect blend of stiffness, control, and durability needed in an elite defensive head. Stringking pulled out all the stops engineering-wise to develop the most capable lacrosse weapon the sport has seen. The 2D truly represents the next evolution in stopping power.
Final Verdict – Is the 2D the Best Defensive Head for You?
After running through all the capabilities and technologies packed into this head, it’s clear the Stringking 2D represents an enormous leap for defensive performance. But is it automatically the right choice for every player? Let’s recap the key pros and cons.
For the pros, the game-changing stiffness and durability enable lockdown defense through physicality and disruption. The 2D also provides excellent ground ball and clearing abilities thanks to the wider scoop and throat design.
It’s incredibly lightweight given the rigidity, maximizing speed and footwork. The head feels broken-in and precise right off the shelf with no “break-in” period either. You also get awesome value given the extended lifespan over cheaper heads.
In terms of downsides, the 2D caters to a specific defensive style centered around speed and agility over brute force. Brawlers may want more flex, while finesse defenders benefit from increased feel and ball control.
It also requires an expert stringing job to soften the stiffness while maintaining structure. Beginners may fare better with more naturally flexible heads to string. And attacking players have better options than the 2D for running offensive sets.
So in summary, if you rely on quick footwork, active sticks, ground ball dominance, and smothering pressure as a defender, the 2D is the ultimate game-changing weapon. But it truly excels for disruptive, takeaway style defense over pure physicality or offensive runs upfield.
For scrappy, playmaking poles who want to shut down opponents and spearhead transition offense, the Stringking 2D delivers elite-level performance tailored specifically to your needs. Just be prepared to put in work mastering the stringing nuances required to unlock its full potential across the field.