Shafts or handles for lacrosse stick can be the most expensive purchase you make, so you should definitely do your research before investing.    

If I pay for the most expensive shaft on the wall will it be indestructible?  No, there is a chance of every lacrosse stick breaking, bending, or cracking.  Some metals are much stronger then others though.  For instance, titanium is the strongest shaft we have and playing with it will greatly reduce your chance of breaking a lacrosse stick. 

What is this strength to weight ratio thing I keep hearing about?  Some lacrosse shafts are light and weak, some are strong and heavy, and some try to combine the two for the optimal shaft for your needs.  The strength to weight ratio is the balance of the 2 factors when making a handle.  Lacrosse stick shafts that are very light and strong tend to be more expensive such as the Scandiums.  Shafts that are light but not quite as strong such as the C405s are a little less.  Finally, shafts that are extremely strong and moderately light such as titanium are the most expensive. 

Does age affect which shaft I should buy?  Yes and no.  The various levels of play can help determine which type of shaft is good for you.  For example, if you are a middle school player you may want to focus on a lacrosse shaft that is a little lighter sacrificing some of the strength of the shaft.  Middle school players are less likely to break a lacrosse stick because of the nature of the age and the rules that protect younger players from checking too hard.  Not to mention, younger players should use a lighter shaft while learning the sport because the lacrosse stick will be easier to handle.  Conversely, if you are a High School or college player you may want to consider a stronger shaft since the competition is much more fierce and you are much more likely to break a lacrosse stick. 

            All that being said there is not an age limit on any shaft.  All shafts are the same length for the appropriate position. 

What are some other factors when considering the shaft purchase? You should really consider what type of player is buying the stick. For instance, if you are a 230 Lb defenseman who throws many checks like Hamilton Pollard you are going to be breaking a lot of lacrosse sticks.  You should really invest the strongest lacrosse stick possible in order to avoid too many trips back to see us. 

Does the manufacturer of the head I am using need to match the manufacturer of my shaft?  No, almost every head will fit universally on any shaft.  The only difference is where each manufacturer places their screw hole which can be easily fixed by screwing in a new hole.  (Helpful tip:  Use a self tapping screw or have one of our associates take care of you.  You can do damage to the head if you are not careful)  

            I say almost any head because some companies are using a canted shaft at the top of the head and will not fit “standard” heads.  For instance, STX’s Crank Shaft series will only fit certain heads. 

Does the position I play affect which shaft I should purchase?  Absolutely!  Attackmen and midfielders use shorter lacrosse sticks in the range of 40-42 inches.  Any standard short shaft will be good for you.  Defensemen, on the other hand, should use a 6 feet handle while goalies use a length in between that is designated for goalie play.  Defensemen do not have to use this length but it is highly recommended even for youth players.  Many youth players cut their defense lacrosse shafts down to learn which is great but if you can learn with the full length even better!

Does my $1000 shaft have a warranty?  Yes, most shafts come with a 30day-6month warranty depending on what type it is.  See our warranty section for details and definitely save that receipt!

Hopefully this clears some things up for you but as usual, give us a call at 1(888)southswell with any more specific questions.