a) you make a big mistake (not clamped right)
b) you have a cheap machine and it breaks (TR Stringer)
there are no learn to string books that I know of. You might
get chummy with a local stringer in a pro shop, and ask him to teach you for free,
for money or for beer,
you should join the US Racquet Stringers Association, they provide a
big manual with all the patterns you could ever dream of, good technique tips, and regular
updates, as well as discounts and sometimes freebies. Call them at 619 481 3545. Oh,
join before you buy a machine - you will find the Stringer's Updates are an excellent
source for used machines.
The Klippermate is an excellent choice for a personal stringer. It
is sturdy, well built, relatively easy to use (for a tabletop) and well worth the
price. As far as tabletops go, I would hesitate to spend more - I own one
myself. The 2 point mounting system used on the Klippermate is perfectly acceptable,
and according to them, is better than a 4 or 6 point. The next step up would be a
used upright like an Ektelon or a Winn Pro, for around $500 or so, if you have the space
and need the speed advantage - you can string quicker with an upright. You will find an ad
for the Klippermate and many other similar machines in the back of Tennis magazine.
Q: How do I become a 'certified stringer'?
A: By the USRSA (US Racquet Stringers Association). There are
actually 2 types:
- USRSA Certified: anyone can get this if you pass the
test - USRSA CRT (Certified Racquet Technician) You must belong to
an established shop where stringing is performed, and you must pass a (harder) test. The
CRT designation was created to add credibility to the stringers who work at shops and
therefore charge extra, as opposed to home-based stringers (like me) who string
on the kitchen table and have no overhead. You can contact the USRSA at (619)
481-3545.
Q: In a tabletop stringer, such as the Klippermate, is there
any advantage to a 6 clamp mounting system as opposed to a 2 point?
A: According to Klippermate, no. Even with upright models you
will find differences in the way frames are mounted. The Winn Pro,
for example, uses a 2 point mounting system with lateral support. The 2
point system used on the Klippermate works fine, and according to Klipspringer
is a better method. It's sort of like the debate over front vs. rear wheel
drive... No matter what system you use, make sure your clamps are tight or it
won't matter how many mount points there are.
Comments on machines:
The USRSA is preparing a review of portable stringing machines.
I've seen a draft of this material and the review seems to rank the Gamma Pro 100
($179) at or near the top. Other machines reviewed that did well were the Alpha Pro
Partner ($200) and the AG Gutterman Easy I ($145).
They also reviewed the Klippermate and did not feel that it was a good choice for first
time stringers. I cannot endorse one machine over another since I have only used the
Klippermate (in the portable
category) but I continue to use my Klip for my personal stringing with no problems.
Do your research, make sure the company stands behind its product, and take your time to
do a good job, and I'm sure you'll be a skilled stringer in no time.
