Best Attack Lacrosse Shafts for Attackmen & Middies (2026) | LaxDrip
Independent lacrosse gear reviews/Men's · Women's · Goalie

Best Attack Lacrosse Shafts Reviewed (for Attackmen & Middies)

20 attack and middie shafts compared on weight, strength, shape, grip and flex, plus two budget picks, a buying guide and the shafts you can order today at BattleLax.

Best attack lacrosse shafts reviewed
Top pickMAV
Coach's pick: the Maverik Apollo, a light scandium-titanium shaft with a concave grip and adjustable butt end. In stock at BattleLax for $129.99.
Shop at BattleLax

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No matter how good your head is, you can't have an elite stick without a strong, light attack shaft to go with it.

Shafts come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, and there are countless metal and composite options out there. To help you pick, I put together this guide to my 20 favorite attack and middie shafts, two budget options and what to look for when you're choosing.

To find the best shafts for attackmen and middies, I started by building a database of every handle on the market, with as much info as I could find on each: price, weight, material, flex points and more. Then I read customer reviews and hit my local lax shop to see how strong they were, how they felt and how they looked in person. From there, I narrowed it down to the shafts below.

Coach's note: Up in Ontario, the box kids want a shaft that can take a cross-check off the boards. In upstate New York, it's gotta survive a February practice when the metal feels like an ice cube. And down in Virginia Beach, you want grip that holds when your gloves are soaked with sweat. There's no perfect shaft for everybody. Pick the one that feels right in your gloves, tape it how you like, and stop blaming the stick for drops your hands can fix.

Heads up: BattleLax carries several shafts from this list, including the Apollo, Caliber, Evo V, Gait GCX and Dolomite. For the rest, I point you to the closest shaft they do stock, and you'll find the full in-stock list below.

Our top picks

Overview of the best attack lacrosse shafts

#ShaftBest forBattleLax
01Maverik ApolloBest overallBuy
02Maverik RangeBest for crease attackAlt
03STX Z70 OCSBest for youthAlt
04Warrior Dolomite BlankToughest metalBuy
05ECD Carbon MTX 2.0Best for two-way middiesAlt
06ECD Carbon LTX 2.0Stiffest compositeAlt
07Maverik CaliberMost durable alloyBuy
08Warrior Evo V Alloy Core CarbonBest hybridBuy
09Gait Carbon GCX-SSDMBest for SSDMBuy
10STX Sc-Ti Series (5 Shafts)Best metal lineAlt
11ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 (Speed & Power)Best flex optionsAlt
12Maverik HyperliteLightest carbonAlt
13StringKing Composite 2 ProMost durable carbonAlt
14Warrior Burn XP CarbonMost flexAlt
15StringKing Metal 3 ProBest value metalAlt
16STX Fiber X & OBest for dodgersAlt
17Warrior Evo QX CarbonBest lookingAlt
18Maverik UnionBest for contactAlt
19Epoch Dragonfly Elite IIBest warrantyAlt
20StringKing Composite 2 Pro FaceoffBest faceoff shaftAlt

"Buy" goes to the shaft on BattleLax. "Alt" goes to the closest shaft BattleLax has in stock.

Best attack lacrosse shaft reviews

1. Maverik Apollo Attack Lacrosse Shaft Best overall

Maverik Apollo Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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The Apollo is one of the lightest shafts Maverik makes, at around 5.2 ounces. On the newer model, Maverik beefed up the high-impact areas and shaved material everywhere else, so it's still durable.

That light feel lets your hands move fast when you're dodging your man and feeding the crease. The tactile grip near the bottom gives you just enough texture without tearing up your gloves.

The scandium-titanium alloy and Dynamic Taper Wall keep it sturdy enough to take a beating from poles without rattling. It's not the shaft for throwing big checks, though.

It's a durable pick for beginner and intermediate outside shooters who want speed. The concave shape and adjustable butt end give you great handling on shots from distance.

At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the Maverik Apollo 2026 Attack Shaft ($129.99) straight from BattleLax.

Shop the Maverik Apollo 2026

Read more: My full Maverik Apollo review

2. Maverik Range Attack Lacrosse Shaft Best for crease attack

Maverik Range Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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Any time I'm playing attack around the crease, the Maverik Range is my go-to. It's a bit heavier at about 6.1 ounces, but the strength-to-weight ratio is right where you want it.

It's made from 8000-series alloy, which is a step up from the more common 7075 alloy. So even at a budget price, it's tough enough to last more than a season.

I like the consistent feel of the traditional octagonal shape. It cuts down on the shaft spinning in your hands on dodges and catches. The GritGrip finish in the key hand spots gave me extra control in the rain, too.

I would have liked texture up the middle, though. It got a little slick when I slid my hands up for a quick shot or a one-handed cradle.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Maverik Range Attack. The closest affordable Maverik alloy they stock is the Maverik A7 175 Attack Shaft ($99.99).

Shop the Maverik A7 175

Read more: My full Maverik Range review

3. STX Z70 OCS Attack Lacrosse Shaft Best for youth

STX Z70 OCS Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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I always point young players looking for a light, affordable attack shaft to the STX Z70 OCS. STX built it from Z70 alloy, which I've found holds up better than 6000-series alloy.

The OCS tech keeps the weight down to about 5.8 ounces, and it still held up well to checks, with barely any scuffing. I also noticed a little flex in the middle when I was ripping shots.

That flex adds some pop to your passes and shots, but I felt a bit of rattle when I took checks. If you want something stiffer, go with the Maverik Range or the Nike Alpha Elite.

Still, the octagonal shape and Max Sandblast finish gave me a secure, no-slip grip. It's not as aggressive as GritGrip, but it holds even in the rain.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Z70 OCS Attack. For a light, affordable alloy shaft they stock, go with the Maverik A7 175 Attack Shaft ($99.99).

Shop the Maverik A7 175

4. Warrior Dolomite Blank Attack Lacrosse Shaft Toughest metal

Warrior Dolomite Blank Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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The Warrior Dolomite isn't a flashy shaft, but it's one of the toughest metal shafts on my list. I've been using it for a few months, and it's got an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.

The weight is spread out well, so it's easy to handle on fast dodges and cuts. It's extremely stiff, but the Altium alloy soaks up checks. I didn't see any real dents after some rough ground ball battles.

There's no flex on shots, so I could confidently snap off quick feeds and catch-and-release shots. The traditional octagonal shape and textured finish give you a secure grip, which helps a lot when you're cradling one-handed.

I did swap the end cap for a Maverik adjustable butt end to stop my bottom hand from sliding during fast play.

At BattleLax: BattleLax carries the Dolomite in the Diamond finish: the Warrior Dolomite Diamond Attack Shaft ($150.00).

Shop the Warrior Dolomite Diamond

5. ECD Carbon MTX 2.0 Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft Best for two-way middies

ECD Carbon MTX 2.0 Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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The ECD Carbon MTX 2.0 is built for middies and two-way players who need a tough shaft that won't slow them down. I ran it through a bunch of practices and games, and it held up to heavy checks without any real dents or wear.

ECD added a Kevlar layer to the MTX 2.0, which really helps the ultra-light TeXtreme composite last longer. It stayed solid with no flex, even when I was jamming an attackman or taking slashes in transition.

At about 6.25 ounces without the end cap, it's well balanced. It's stiff enough for quick short passes and checks, but not so heavy that it drags on the fast break.

The raw carbon texture gives you great control, especially scooping ground balls under pressure. It's one of the best shafts for high-level players who care about durability.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the ECD Carbon MTX 2.0 Composite Attack. ECD's newest composite, the ECD Carbon 4.0 Attack/Midfield Shaft (From $124.99), is the one they stock.

Shop the ECD Carbon 4.0 Attack

Read more: My full ECD Carbon MTX review

6. ECD Carbon LTX 2.0 Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft Stiffest composite

ECD Carbon LTX 2.0 Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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The ECD LTX 2.0 isn't the lightest composite out there, but the TeXtreme material with a Kevlar layer makes it seriously durable for its weight. At about 5.5 ounces, it's a touch heavier than the Maverik Hyperlite.

Unlike the Hyperlite, it's extremely stiff. I didn't notice any flex dodging through traffic or stepping into a shot. My passes were fast and accurate, with no lag or torque, just clean ball movement.

Its Control shape has a curved groove running down the shaft, a lot like an aggressive concave. Your fingers fall right into place and lock in.

It's durable, but it's not a shaft for throwing big checks. I had to put extra force into my checks to bother my man or pick off passes.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the ECD Carbon LTX 2.0 Composite Attack. ECD's newest composite, the ECD Carbon 4.0 Attack/Midfield Shaft (From $124.99), is the one they stock.

Shop the ECD Carbon 4.0 Attack

7. Maverik Caliber Attack Lacrosse Shaft Most durable alloy

Maverik Caliber Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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Next up is the Maverik Caliber. I've used it for about a year, and after countless games, it doesn't have a scuff or dent. The scandium-titanium alloy and dual taper make it even more durable than the Apollo, at about 6.4 ounces.

The grooves along the shaft are more sculpted, so your fingers settle right in, and you get a stronger grip powering through checks. The bead-blasted finish adds just the right texture to hang on under pressure.

It does feel a bit heavy when you're moving your hands for quick fakes or split dodges, but the control is a big help cradling in traffic. The ABE+ adjustable butt end also let me dial in my grip for more shot speed.

At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the Maverik Caliber 2026 Shaft ($129.99) straight from BattleLax.

Shop the Maverik Caliber 2026

Read more: My full Maverik Caliber review

8. Warrior Evo V Alloy Core Carbon Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft Best hybrid

Warrior Evo V Alloy Core Carbon Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft
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The Warrior Evo V was my favorite attack shaft of 2024 because it gives you the best of alloy and carbon. The alloy core makes it more resistant to dents and cracks, and the carbon ribs give you a great grip.

The alloy soaks up impact without sending it into your hands. I did miss the whip you get from a flexible carbon shaft. There's a little flex in the middle, but you barely notice it.

At about 6.0 ounces, it's light and responsive. Even after long practices, it felt effortless, and I could keep firing hard shots without my arms getting tired.

The octagonal shape with deep grooves makes it reliable for protecting the ball from defenders. The sliding end cap also gives you more adjustment than a standard one.

At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the Warrior Evo V Lacrosse Shaft ($169.99) straight from BattleLax.

Shop the Warrior Evo V

Read more: My full Warrior Evo V shaft review

9. Gait Carbon GCX-SSDM Composite Short Stick D-Middie Lacrosse Shaft Best for SSDM

Gait Carbon GCX-SSDM Composite Short Stick D-Middie Lacrosse Shaft
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The Gait GCX-SSDM is marketed as a short-stick D-middie shaft, but I've used it as an offensive middie, and it gives you very consistent shots. The aggressive concave shape feels secure, so you have better control on dodges and quick releases.

The moderate flex balances stiffness and pop. I noticed a little extra pop when I let it rip on step-down shots, but it didn't spray my shots around.

The thick walls absorb impact well, so it's a lot tougher than lighter carbon shafts that snap. At about 7.1 ounces, it might be heavy for some players, but it throws disruptive checks.

The fine, sandpaper-like texture grips great without much tape. Over time, though, it wore down the palms of my gloves and took away some stick feel.

At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the Gait GCX Carbon SSDM Shaft ($149.99) straight from BattleLax.

Shop the Gait GCX Carbon SSDM

10. STX Sc-Ti Series (5 Shafts) Best metal line

STX Sc-Ti Series (5 Shafts)
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All through high school and college, I almost always played with an STX Sc-Ti Pro. They were light and held up great. I don't think I ever broke one or even put a real dent in one.

STX now makes 5 versions of the Sc-Ti, which vary by shape and weight. That range means you can find a shape that fits your hands and know it's going to perform.

The Sc-Ti shafts are STX's top-tier metal shafts, made from a scandium-titanium alloy. They have a 2-mil steel shot finish for better grip and control.

If you prefer metal over composite, you'd have a hard time finding a better option than an STX Sc-Ti.

Here's a look at each of the 5 shapes:

  • X: extreme concave
  • X+: extreme concave with extra thickness
  • O: concave octagonal (traditional feel)
  • R: ridge profile for extra feel and grip
  • S: asymmetrical, octagonal on one side and concave on the other

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Sc-Ti Series. For a scandium-titanium attack shaft they stock, go with the ECD Focus Attack Shaft ($124.99).

Shop the ECD Focus

11. ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 (Speed & Power) Best flex options

ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 (Speed & Power)
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ECD took the best parts of the Carbon Pro 2.0 and added new features to make the 3.0 even better. It comes in two versions: Speed and Power.

The Speed version is built mainly for attackmen. It has a higher flex point for a quicker release, plus a raised texture grip near the top for better control cradling one-handed.

The Power version is built for middies and outside shooters. It has a lower flex point for more power on outside shots, and the raised texture sits toward the bottom so you can control those long bombs.

Both are reinforced with Kevlar, which makes them even stronger while keeping a good strength-to-weight ratio. They also come with a sliding end cap you can set right where you like it.

The 3.0 also has a new, deeper concave shape. In my opinion, it grips a lot better than the 2.0 and most other shafts. Both have clean designs with subtle logos and text, in a good way.

On the downside, they're a little heavier than some other attack and middie shafts. That helps them last, but if you want a super light shaft, look elsewhere.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax carries the newer Carbon Pro 4.0 in both versions: the ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 Speed ($159.99) and the Carbon Pro 4.0 Power ($159.99).

Shop the ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 Speed

12. Maverik Hyperlite Lightest carbon

Maverik Hyperlite
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The Maverik Hyperlite is a carbon fiber shaft and one of the lightest on the market, at only about 4.8 ounces.

The newest version came with an updated design and the same great performance as the past models.

Unlike some carbon shafts, the Hyperlite is built not to flex. If you're used to metal and want to try carbon, it's a smart first step instead of jumping straight to a whippy shaft.

It has a slight concave shape and a matte finish for a smooth feel. It comes in black and white/black, both with blue accents and a clean design.

One of my favorite parts is the adjustable butt end, which you can move wherever you want it on the shaft.

If you want a light carbon attack shaft, the Hyperlite checks every box, and there's a reason so many pro and college players use it.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Maverik Hyperlite. For a super-light Maverik shaft they stock, go with the Maverik Flylite 150 Shaft ($164.99).

Shop the Maverik Flylite 150

13. StringKing Composite 2 Pro Most durable carbon

StringKing Composite 2 Pro
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Another carbon fiber shaft on the list is the StringKing Composite 2 Pro. Like past models, it comes in 4 versions that differ in weight, so you can match it to your level.

It has Smart Taper technology, which adds extra material where shafts usually break. In our testing, it's been very strong.

The biggest downside is the weight of the versions built for advanced players (175 g and 195 g). They're not super heavy, but there are lighter carbon shafts out there.

If you want a carbon shaft that'll last a long time and you don't mind a little extra weight, the Composite 2 Pro is a great option.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the StringKing Composite 2 Pro. For a durable composite they stock, go with the ECD Carbon 4.0 Attack/Midfield Shaft (From $124.99).

Shop the ECD Carbon 4.0 Attack

14. Warrior Burn XP Carbon Shaft Most flex

Warrior Burn XP Carbon Shaft
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The Warrior Burn XP Carbon earns its spot with its durability, light weight and great feel.

If you like a flexible shaft, the Burn XP Carbon is arguably your best bet. XP stands for "extreme power," and you can feel it. Compared to stiffer shafts, you can really feel it load up when you shoot, and that adds power.

There's a dot-matrix grip on the bottom half that cuts down on tape. A lot of players tape up other shafts for grip, which adds weight, so the built-in grip is a huge plus.

It comes with two end caps: a Warp end cap for more leverage on shots (my pick) and a smaller, lighter standard plug. If you love light, whippy carbon, it's a phenomenal choice.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax carries its successor, the Warrior Burn XP2 Carbon Attack Shaft ($149.99).

Shop the Warrior Burn XP2 Carbon

15. StringKing Metal 3 Pro Shafts (4 Options) Best value metal

StringKing Metal 3 Pro Shafts (4 Options)
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The StringKing Metal 3 Pro comes in 4 versions that differ in weight, so you can match it to your level.

The grip feels like most metal shafts, and the slight concave shape gives you good control. It comes in silver and black with minimal decals, so it looks sharp.

The biggest downside is the weight of the versions built for advanced players (175 g and 195 g). They're not super heavy, but there are lighter metal shafts out there.

That said, the Metal 3 Pro holds up extremely well. After a full fall ball season with mine, there wasn't a single dent or ding, just a few scratches here and there that didn't affect how it played.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the StringKing Metal 3 Pro. For a tough alloy shaft they stock, go with the Warrior Alchemy STZ Attack Shaft ($124.99).

Shop the Warrior Alchemy STZ

16. STX Fiber X & O Attack Shafts Best for dodgers

STX Fiber X & O Attack Shafts
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Like the Sc-Ti line, STX's elite Fiber composite line comes in more than one shape: X and O.

The X has a concave shape that I prefer because it gives me more feel and leverage in my gloves. The O has a more traditional octagonal shape that's rounder than the X.

The Fiber shafts aren't the lightest, but they hold up very well and aren't prone to splintering like some carbon shafts. That makes them a great pick for attackmen who dodge a lot and middies who need a dependable shaft at both ends.

The targeted grip zones also stood out. They're textured spots that give you grip without tape.

The Fiber shafts have a moderate amount of flex. It's not as noticeable as the Burn XP Carbon, but you can feel it a little when you shoot.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Fiber X & O Attack. For a composite with a bit of flex they stock, go with the ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 Power ($159.99).

Shop the ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 Power

17. Warrior Evo QX Carbon Attack Shaft Best looking

Warrior Evo QX Carbon Attack Shaft
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The Evo QX Carbon Attack is a hollow carbon fiber shaft and one of the strongest in the game. The hollow design keeps it super light, at only about 4.59 ounces, without giving up durability.

Unlike the Burn XP Carbon, the Evo QX is very stiff for a carbon shaft, with almost no flex.

Another favorite part is the Tactical Grip on the key spots of the shaft. Best of all, it's designed not to tear up your gloves like some gritty shafts do.

It comes in a clean white design with light blue accents. It's one of the best-looking shafts in the game and looks great with just about any head.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Warrior Evo QX Carbon Attack. Warrior's newer Evo shaft, the Warrior Evo V Lacrosse Shaft ($169.99), is the one they stock.

Shop the Warrior Evo V

18. Maverik Union Attack Shaft Best for contact

Maverik Union Attack Shaft
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The Union is an elite metal shaft built to last. If you're always running through checks, digging in ground ball scrums or laying checks yourself, it's an awesome option.

Part of what makes the Union so strong is Dynamic Taper Wall, which adds extra material in the spots that get checked the most.

Another cool feature is the bead-blasted finish. Instead of adding a bunch of material for texture, it's a subtle grip that doesn't add weight. I tried one at my local lax shop and really liked how it felt in my gloves.

It also has the adjustable butt end Maverik puts on most of its new shafts, so you can set it wherever it feels best. A nice touch on an already great shaft.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Maverik Union Attack. For a tough Maverik alloy with Dynamic Taper Wall they stock, go with the Maverik Caliber 2026 Shaft ($129.99).

Shop the Maverik Caliber 2026

19. Epoch Dragonfly Elite II Shaft Best warranty

Epoch Dragonfly Elite II Shaft
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Epoch's Dragonfly Elite series is another top-tier line with lots of options, so you can find one that fits your game. The Elite II improves on the already popular Dragonfly Elite.

There are 3 shapes: the C (concave), a traditional concave; the E (ergonomic), an asymmetric concave; and the X (extreme concave), concave on the corners but flat on the sides.

You also get 4 flex options depending on whether your game is more power or speed. From stiffest to most flexible: iQ2, iQ4xl, iQ5 and iQ9.

The Dragonfly Elite also stands out with a 1-year warranty, when most shafts only come with 6 months or less.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Epoch Dragonfly Elite II. For a composite with flex options they stock, go with the ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 Speed ($159.99).

Shop the ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 Speed

20. StringKing Composite 2 Pro Faceoff Best faceoff shaft

StringKing Composite 2 Pro Faceoff
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The StringKing Composite 2 Pro Faceoff updates the popular Composite Pro Faceoff, one of the few faceoff-specific shafts on the market. StringKing took the Composite 2 Pro and reshaped the grip near the top to give your top hand a better hold at the X.

The top fifth of the shaft has an asymmetrical shape that gives you more leverage on the clamp. I've tested it myself, and it really does give you better grip and leverage than a normal shaft.

It's also built to pair with one of the best faceoff heads out there, the StringKing Mark 2F. That combo is very popular with college FOGOs.

You get two weight options. StringKing recommends the 175 g for players 18 and up, but we think most high schoolers will handle it fine. The 155 g is great for younger players or anyone who wants a super-light faceoff shaft.

It also works with throat plugs, which most faceoff heads have these days.

On the downside, it's on the pricier end for a shaft, and it takes some time to get used to how it feels at the X and how it cradles.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax carries the updated version, the StringKing Composite 3 Pro Faceoff Shaft ($159.99).

Shop the StringKing Composite 3 Pro Faceoff

Read more: Best faceoff heads

Budget attack and middie shafts

Looking for a cheaper attack or middie shaft? There are some good ones out there. Here are two to consider, plus a few more in our cheap lacrosse shafts guide.

True Alloy SC+TI 6.0 Shaft

It's not often you find a good Sc-Ti shaft for under $100, but that's what you get with the True Alloy SC+TI 6.0. At about 5.3 ounces, it's not the lightest, but it's not heavy by any means. It's also very durable and should hold up at the highest levels.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the True SC+TI 6.0. For an affordable alloy they stock, go with the Maverik A7 175 Attack Shaft ($99.99).

STX 7000 Shaft

If you've got a young kid just getting into the game, or you want a cheap shaft to mess around with, look no further than the STX 7000. It's a basic 7000-alloy shaft with a simple design in black or silver.

I wouldn't use it in high school or above, since it dents and breaks easily. But it's a full-size shaft that's fine for young kids or backyard play at a great price.

BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX 7000. For a starter shaft they stock, go with the Maverik F7 175 Attack Shaft ($99.99).

Attack shafts in stock at BattleLax

Want a shaft you can order today? These are the attack and middie shafts from this guide, or their closest match, that BattleLax carries right now.

ShaftMaterialPrice
Maverik Apollo 2026 Attack ShaftScandium-titanium alloy$129.99
Maverik Caliber 2026 ShaftScandium-titanium alloy$129.99
Warrior Evo V Lacrosse ShaftAlloy core carbon$169.99
Gait GCX Carbon SSDM ShaftCarbon composite$149.99
Warrior Dolomite Diamond Attack ShaftAltium alloy$150.00
ECD Focus Attack ShaftScandium-titanium alloy$124.99
Warrior Alchemy STZ Attack ShaftScandium-titanium-zinc alloy$124.99
Maverik Mag-Ti 145 Attack ShaftMagnesium-titanium alloy$129.99
ECD Carbon 4.0 Attack/Midfield ShaftCarbon compositeFrom $124.99
ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 SpeedCarbon composite (high flex)$159.99
ECD Carbon Pro 4.0 PowerCarbon composite (low flex)$159.99
Warrior Burn XP2 Carbon Attack ShaftCarbon composite$149.99
Maverik Flylite 150 ShaftLightweight shaft$164.99
Maverik A7 175 Attack ShaftAlloy (budget)$99.99
StringKing Composite 3 Pro Faceoff ShaftFaceoff composite$159.99

Prices and stock change, so check the product page before you order. Want carbon specifically? See our best carbon lacrosse shafts and our lightest heads and shafts.

How to choose an attack or middie shaft

Can't decide? Here's what to compare so you can build the best attack stick for you.

1. Weight

For attackmen and middies, a light shaft is arguably the most important thing, so it doesn't slow down your shot or your hands. I recommend staying under 7 ounces, and ideally under 6. Most of the best attack and middie shafts today weigh 4 to 6 ounces. Much more than that and you'll feel it.

2. Durability

You want a light shaft, but not at the cost of durability. A shaft is no good if it breaks or gets dented so badly it plays weird.

The easiest way to judge durability is to read reviews from players who've used it for a while, like I did for this guide, and look for breaking or denting issues. Check the warranty, too. Most shafts come with 6 months, which is decent, but some brands now offer a full year, and that's a big deal if you play year-round.

3. Material

The two main types are metal and composite (carbon fiber). Once brands moved away from wood, most shafts were metal alloys. Over the past decade or so, carbon shafts have caught up and, in a lot of cases, passed metal.

So which is better? There's no right answer. It comes down to what you like.

Composite shafts usually have a better strength-to-weight ratio and flex more than metal. That flex takes some getting used to if you're coming from metal. It can feel a little weird the first few times you shoot, even if you can't see it bend. Like you saw above, some brands even offer different flex points so you can match the shaft to your game.

Metal shafts don't flex much, so switching from one metal shaft to another feels natural. They dent more easily than composites, but a dented metal shaft still works. A cracked composite doesn't.

Composites are more prone to catastrophic failure because they shatter instead of picking up a few dings. So while the average carbon shaft may hold up better, once it breaks, it's done.

4. Shape

Shafts come in all kinds of shapes. Most are some version of an octagon. Some are true octagons with straight sides, while others curve inward (concave) or have multiple curves on each side. Like material, there's no best shape. Grab your teammates' sticks with your gloves on and see what feels best to you.

5. Grip and finish

The finish changes from shaft to shaft, too. It might be smooth, sandblasted to make it a little rougher, or have a rubbery grip. You can always add tape, but finding one that feels good bare helps when your tape comes off mid-game or your hand lands on an untaped spot.

6. Cost

Last but not least, factor in your budget. Elite shafts do perform better, but your game won't suffer much with a cheaper one. If you have to choose between saving on the shaft or the head, save on the shaft.

At the end of the day, most shafts are about the same shape and size, and you don't notice the weight difference as much because it's right in your hands, not out at the end of the stick like the head. The best lacrosse heads, on the other hand, are noticeably better than average ones, with better face shapes, more stiffness and durability, and better scoops.

If you're shopping for a cheaper shaft, look at older models. They often go on sale when the new version comes out, even though there's not much difference between generations.

How we rate attack lacrosse shafts

We take our ratings seriously and only recommend gear we'd use ourselves. To rate each product, we test it ourselves whenever we can, dig into the specs (weight, strength, material, grip and so on), and read reviews and talk to players we know who use it.

When we test shafts, we weigh them, feel them in our gloves (for both the shape and the finish), shoot with them to see how they flex, and check them with another stick to see how they hold up. When we can't fully test a product, we spend extra time talking to players who've used it for a while.

If you have feedback on any of these products or want us to add one, reach out and let us know!

People also ask

Will any head fit onto this shaft?

Most heads fit on just about any shaft, even across brands. You may have to drill a new hole for the screw, but that's usually it. The one catch is a head with a throat plug on a solid (not hollow) composite shaft. In that case, go with a hollow shaft or a head without a plug.

Can I cut down a D-pole to attack length?

Yes, if it's metal. Cut it so the complete stick measures within your league's short-stick length (40 to 42 inches in high school and college), which usually works out to about a 30-inch shaft. Since a D-pole is usually 60 inches, you can get two shafts out of one. Never cut a carbon fiber shaft. It'll splinter and be useless.

What is the standard attack shaft length?

Most attack shafts are 30 inches. Some youth shafts are a few inches shorter for better control. Learn more in our lacrosse shaft lengths guide.

Who makes the best lacrosse shafts?

Plenty of brands make quality shafts these days. For the best, look at STX, Warrior, ECD, StringKing, Maverik and Epoch.

What is the best faceoff shaft?

Check out our best faceoff shafts guide. Just about any shaft works at the X, but you want one that feels good in your gloves. A concave shape gives you extra leverage on the clamp.

What is kickpoint on a lacrosse shaft?

Kickpoint is the spot where the shaft flexes the most. It affects shot power and release speed.

What is Flex iQ on a lacrosse shaft?

Flex iQ is Epoch's rating for how much a shaft bends, which changes how it feels shooting and passing.

How do I choose a lacrosse stick?

Look at weight, durability, material, shape, grip and cost, and pick the shaft that fits your game.

Want to finish your attack or middie stick? Check out our picks for the best attack heads and best middie heads.

Shop all shafts at Battle Lax

Top pickMaverik Apollo 2026
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