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Lacrosse Stringing Basics: The RC1 Numbered-Hole Guide

A mesh pocket has four main parts: top string, sidewalls, bottom string and shooting strings. This guide explains what each does, what to gather, and how to use the RC1's numbered sidewall holes to record a repeatable build.

Use a complete pattern demonstrated on your exact head and mesh. Hole numbers alone do not specify a knot or a finished pocket.

What you need before the first knot

  • An unstrung head, such as the white RC1 or clear RC1 N2O.
  • A piece of compatible mesh. NETT is our semi-soft option, available singly and in packs.
  • Top, sidewall and bottom strings, plus the shooting-string setup specified by your pattern and playing rules.
  • Scissors and the string manufacturer's recommended way to finish cut ends.
  • A ball, your chosen pattern, and clear photos or video of its knots.

RC1 and N2O product purchases include the unstrung head only. Mesh and stringing supplies are separate. If you prefer a finished pocket, check the stringing details on our available one-off heads.

See the RC1's numbered holes

RC1 lacrosse head showing the 20 numbered sidewall holes
The molded numbers give you a reference for each sidewall anchor. Record the hole, mesh diamond and knot together.

Before starting, find the same numbered holes on both sides. Photograph the bare head and note the mesh model. When following a pattern, match the head and mesh as well as the anchor numbers. A sequence from a different head can produce a different pocket.

The four parts of a mesh pocket

1. Top string

The top string secures the mesh to the scoop. Follow your pattern's starting row and center alignment. Check that the left and right sides sit evenly before moving down the head.

2. Sidewalls

The two sidewall strings connect the mesh to the head. Their anchors, knots and mesh-diamond choices shape the channel and pocket location. Work from your exact pattern and compare both sides as you go.

3. Bottom string

The bottom string secures the mesh near the throat and helps set pocket depth. Start with the pattern's routing, then check depth and ball release after the pocket settles. Adjusting this string changes the pocket; it does not guarantee a legal setup.

4. Shooting strings

Shooting strings influence how the ball leaves the pocket. Install the number, placement and tension appropriate to your pattern and the current rules for your level of play. Tune with controlled throws after checking the rest of the pocket.

Record a pocket you can repeat

For each sidewall step, write down:

  • The numbered hole used, including any skipped holes.
  • The mesh diamond or row connected at that step.
  • The exact knot and the direction the string passes through it.
  • A close-up photo that makes the route visible.

Keep separate notes for the top string, bottom string and shooters. Add your head model, mesh model and what you changed after throwing. This gives you a useful starting point when restringing the same setup.

Check before playing

Confirm the current stick and pocket requirements for your league and age group. Pocket depth, ball retention, string placement and stick dimensions can all matter; a single depth check is not a complete rules check. Ask a qualified coach or stringer to inspect a first build.

Inspect strings for wear and test the pocket with a ball before use. If the pocket throws differently after break-in, change one variable at a time and record the result.

Planning a custom color first? Read our dye planning guide before installing mesh. See the head comparison for white, clear and finished options, or return to all 5LAX guides.