Are you supposed to cut your lacrosse sticks? Let’s cut to the chase, the answer is yes. Yes, you can cut your lacrosse sticks and personalize them according to your needs. 

In the men’s game, attackmen and midfielders typically use a 40-inch lacrosse stick, while defenders have a 60-inch stick. The goalies also get flexibility with 40 – 72-inch options. The standard stick length on the women’s side is 35.5 – 43.25 inches across all positions.

But these are just the standard lengths. You can cut and adjust your lacrosse sticks based on age, league rules, and personal fitting. If your lacrosse stick is too long, a good trim might be exactly what it needs.

But like always, there are some rules and techniques that you need to pay attention to because you can’t just grab a saw and go at it.

In this article, I will cover everything you need to know about techniques and legalities when cutting your lacrosse stick.

The following table shows the recommended lacrosse stick sizes.

Why Consider Cutting Your Lacrosse Sticks?

As I have mentioned above, cutting your lacrosse stick is about personalizing the stick according to your position in the game and height. It is an extension of your arm, so having the perfect stick is necessary.

Your current lacrosse stick size might work with you, but what if cutting it according to your height requirement might make your game more fluid? 

If you are a professional player or just starting, here’s why cutting your lacrosse stick is worth the effort:

• A shorter stick provides better control, especially if you are an attacking player.
• A shorter stick feels lighter and less clunky, making checks and defensive moves easy.
• Cutting your stick helps you rely on skill and footwork, not just reach.
• Passing and shooting are much smoother when your lacrosse stick matches your height and position requirements.
• Young lacrosse players benefit from shorter sticks. They are easier to manage and require less strength.
• You won’t need to adjust your stick now and then during the gameplay. Hence, more comfort.

If cutting your lacrosse stick comes packed with all these benefits, then it is worth it.

Standard Stick Length by Position

The standard length often doesn’t work for everyone. Below I have given a quick overview of ideal lengths based on positions with regards to the NCAA regulations. 

Make sure to follow these guidelines to stay within league rules.

The Rules about Lacrosse Stick Length

Before you even think about customizing your stick, check the rules.

Major lacrosse governing bodies like the National Lacrosse League (NLL) and NCAA have specified stick lengths and breaching those regulations could lead to penalties, and I am sure you don’t want that on your shoulders

• Short Sticks: 40–42 inches
• Long Sticks (Defense): Up to 72 inches
• Goalie Sticks: Flexible within the range of 40–72 inches

If you modify your stick outside these regulations, it could lead to penalties. Always confirm your league’s specific requirements before cutting.

Till now, I have told you all the reasons why are you supposed to cut your lacrosse sticks. 

Now let’s talk about HOW!

How Are You Supposed To Cut Your Lacrosse Sticks?

Before I start telling you about how are you supposed to cut your lacrosse sticks, let me get a few things straight. 

While cutting lacrosse sticks can sometimes be costly, I’m not referring to the process itself, but rather the rush that can lead to unnecessary expense.

You might be getting second thoughts while reading this, especially if you’ve invested a lot in your equipment. Once you cut it too short, there is no going back, and no one wants to ruin a pricey stick.

Just follow the steps or even get help from someone experienced to avoid any damage. For those willing to take matters into their own hands. Here is what I will advise. 

Take it slow. Start by trimming just 2–4 inches and test it out. If it still feels too long, cut another 1–3 inches. Keep making small adjustments until the stick feels just right in your hands. 

This step-by-step approach helps you find the perfect length without overcutting.

Secondly, know your material. If you have a carbon fiber stick, avoid cutting it. Cutting a carbon fiber stick accurately is extremely difficult, and even if you use a fine saw, you will still be left with uneven rough edges or a weak shaft.

If your stick is made of metal, you have a green signal because metal sticks are safe to cut and can be trimmed to perfection using a standard hacksaw. 

Now let’s get back to the steps for cutting a lacrosse stick.

Step 1: Gather Tools

• Tape measure (min. 5 ft in length)
• Hacksaw (small serrated blades are best for metal)
• Vise
• Sandpaper
• Marker

Step 2: Determine The Length

First, determine at which length you are going to cut your shaft. Cop a feel of your stick and shorten it to see at what length you feel the most comfortable. 

If your teammate around you has the same length stick as what you desire, then test it out. Take a few laps to know if that works for you. 

Don’t have a teammate testing chance? Tread slowly and do not hasten the process because, as I said, you do not have an undo option here. 

Step 3: Measure and Mark

Once you know the length you want, hold the stick in your dominant hand and use a measuring tape to mark the desired length with a permanent marker.

You can also use a piece of tape to mark the point where you need to make the cut. Wrap the tape completely around the shaft, similar to taping an end cap. 

This will also guide your blade during the cutting process.

Step 4: Secure Your Lacrosse Stick

Before you start cutting, lock your lacrosse shaft in a vise for stability. If you don’t have a vise, anything sturdy will work, like Adirondack chairs.

Just ensure the shaft stays steady.

Step 5: Cut Safely

When cutting your lacrosse stick, it’s best to trim the end opposite the pre-drilled holes. This saves you from the extra work of drilling new holes and ensures a clean connection for the head.

If you are working with a damaged stick and can’t save the pre-drilled end, you can turn the butt-end into the top by drilling your head holes. This way, the head attaches securely despite the cut.

Use a steady hand. Use long, smooth strokes with the saw to cut through the initial metal layer at the marked end. Midway through, check that you are cutting straight along the tape guide, then pick up speed to finish the cut.

Step 6: Smooth the Edges

Even the perfectly cut stick doesn’t have smooth edges, so sand down the cut area to prevent injuries or splinters during play.

Test the stick before finalizing adjustments!

Mistakes To Avoid While Cutting Lacrosse Sticks

Although I have explained above in detail the things that you need to know before you start cutting, let me point those out again because better safe than sorry! Right?

• Do not rush the process.  Always double-check measurements before cutting.
• Know your materials and use proper tools to avoid damage.
• Remember, you can cut more, but you cannot add more material back if you overcut. So, be patient, as I said above.

Expert Advice for Beginners

Many coaches suggest keeping your first stick at its original length for a few games. Get a feel for the sport before making modifications. Over time, as your playing style develops, you’ll know what adjustments are necessary.

You can find some of the best lacrosse shafts for your position here.

People Also Ask

So, are you supposed to cut your lacrosse sticks? By now, the answer should feel clear and loud.

Yes, you can cut your lacrosse sticks, but with care and consideration. You hold the power in your hands, and the right length of a stick will help you use your strength at best. 

Customizing your stick can improve your game, but only with the proper tools, measurements, and knowledge of league rules.