GOOD STRINGING, BAD STRINGING--WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? {1997}

By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT and Owner of String Along With Vince in Largo

Is there a difference? Let's examine the issue. First, there is competence. It's a fact that ANYONE with the money can buy a stringing machine. Unfortunately, it's not like driving a car where you're required to display some degree of competence before you are allowed to drive on your own. But is it really necessary to have a level of competence when stringing a racquet?

There are over 3000 different frames. Some manufacturers are no longer in business, and getting the information to string their frames properly is difficult, if not impossible. Owning a stringing machine is like owning a socket wrench. Do you trust just anyone with a socket wrench to work on your car? Do you even trust just any mechanic to work on your car? Most people prefer to feel comfortable with a mechanic before allowing him to do a job.

A racquet frame is made of mostly graphite and fiberglass. The frame has certain characteristics, one of which is stiffness. Proper mounting on a stringing machine is absolutely crucial to minimize the possibility of breakage. Without the correct stringing pattern, a frame can be damaged from improper tension, stringing the wrong holes for mains and crosses, and a host of other things which only become apparent after training and experience. Different types of stringing machines have different effects on frames and strings, too. Technique can even be a factor in how long the string lasts. If a stringer pulls the cross strings improperly, he/she can actually notch the strings, taking as much as 25% out of the life of the strings before you get to hit the first ball!

Racquet technology has become a highly sophisticated and technical discipline. With frames costing $200 to $300 or even more, and made of very thin, breakable materials, your stringer needs good basic knowledge of mechanics and physics. Specialized, ongoing training for the job is essential. The best, most accurate tools, as well as analysis equipment go a long way to ensure that the job is done professionally. When you bring your frame in to us, you are assured the job will be done correctly and consistently time after time. Even if you haven't been here in 5 years or more you will get the string job you expect. We maintain a computer database with the analysis of all stringing for the past 8 years (over 10,000 string jobs).

Racquet service is our specialty, not a sideline. The bottom line is although you may be able to get your racquet strung cheaper; you will never get it done better. My father always told me you get what you pay for. Think about it.

Copyright 1997(Previously published in THE SERVICE ACE - April/August, 1997
By Vince Chiarelli, PTR, MRT