A complete stick is a direct option when its included head, shaft, length and pocket suit the player. Buying separate components gives you more control over the setup, but confirm compatibility and who will string or assemble it. Product listings vary: STX describes one complete stick as ready to play, while Signature lists a customizable kit with an unstrung head and an unassembled stick.
Choose between a complete stick and separate parts by checking what you need to assemble, the player’s length and rules, and the pocket the player wants. A “complete” label can mean different things across listings, so read the included parts and assembly notes for the exact product.
Compare the purchase formats
| Purchase format | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Ready-to-play complete stick | Confirm the head, shaft, finished length and pocket are included. STX describes its Stallion 700 as ready to play out of the box and available only in attack/midfield length. |
| Head and shaft bought separately | Check head-to-shaft fit, position, length and which component is strung. Confirm who will string the pocket and assemble the setup. |
| Build kit with an unstrung head | Confirm whether the kit includes mesh and strings, whether the head is unstrung, and whether the stick ships assembled. Signature’s Player Pro page lists an unstrung head, a shaft and stringing kit, and says the stick is not pre-assembled or pre-strung. |
These are examples of how two product listings describe their contents, not a ranking or a claim about every complete stick or kit.
Use this checklist before ordering
- Check the game and player role. A field short stick, long pole, women’s stick and goalie stick follow different measurements. Confirm the relevant rules before comparing products.
- Read the finished length. The listed shaft length is not necessarily the length of the assembled stick. Check whether the head is included in the measurement.
- Confirm the pocket. See whether the head arrives strung, unstrung or with a stringing kit. If it is unstrung, decide who will string it and whether you have the needed tools and parts.
- Check the connection and package. Confirm the head fits the shaft and identify the butt end, end cap, mesh, strings and other parts included in the listing.
- Match the player’s preferences. If the player already knows a preferred head, shaft shape or pocket, separate parts may make it easier to preserve that setup. If those choices are new, a compatible ready-to-play stick can reduce the number of purchase decisions.
The men’s head guide, shaft materials comparison and stick length guide help narrow the components. For assembly, see how to string a lacrosse head and lacrosse mesh types.
Sources
Checked November 5, 2026.
Related
Common questions
Should a beginner buy a complete lacrosse stick?
A complete stick can simplify the first purchase when its included head, shaft length and pocket match the player's rules and needs. Check the exact product listing to confirm what comes assembled and strung.
What does an unstrung lacrosse head include?
An unstrung head does not arrive with a finished pocket. Check whether mesh and stringing supplies are included and whether you or a stringer will assemble it. A kit may still arrive unassembled.
Can I buy a lacrosse head and shaft separately?
Yes, but check that the head attaches securely to the shaft and that the finished stick meets the player's length and equipment rules. Confirm the package contents for each part.
Is a custom lacrosse stick better than a complete stick?
Neither format is best for everyone. Choose a complete stick for a ready-to-play setup that fits; choose separate parts when you have a specific head or shaft preference and a plan for stringing and assembly.