#9
stringingstringing machinetips
Stringing Machine Maintenance
Posted by Rob Marshall on 29th December 2019
Guidance on how to clean and maintain stringing machines.
Stringing machines have numerous moving parts, each of which require regular cleaning in order to maintain a well-functioning machine. Although most routine cleaning and maintenance can be done only periodically, stringing machines benefit greatly when this is done as regularly as possible in proportion to usage, as it will not only ensure smooth operation of the mechanical parts, but will prolong the machine's working life.
#8
Stringing Eye Squash Rackets
Posted by Rob Marshall on 20th October 2019
Some tips for stringing Eye Rackets squash rackets.
Eye Rackets squash rackets require a little extra attention when restringing, compared with rackets from most other leading manufacturers. Eye rackets are unique in that they do not have conventional grommet/bumper strips, but instead have 'eyelets' that are inserted into individual grommet holes, much like with badminton rackets. The purpose of this is to minimise surplus weight at the head of the frame, thereby helping to achieve optimum balance. However, when they are not held in place by tensioned strings, the eyelets have a frustrating tendency to fall out and can easily be lost, particularly when pulling out old strings. This is made worse with factory strings coated with stencil ink, as the strings are slightly thicker than usual, which can cause them to catch on the eyelets.
#7
stringingstringing machinetips
Stringing Machine Conversion
Posted by Rob Marshall on 19th October 2019
A guide to retrofitting manual stringing machines with the Wise 2086.
Electronic stringing machines offer far greater accuracy than manual ‘lock-out’ machines, primarily due to the constant-pull technology offered that compensates for the string continuing to stretch after the set tension is reached. However, electronic machines are a significant investment (often upwards of £3,000) that only a full-time stringer doing high volumes of rackets may be able to justify. For a rookie stringer buying their first equipment on a limited budget, a cheaper drop-weight or crank machine is often the preferred choice, as these can be bought for as little as £250.
#6
Blackburne DS 107 Super-Mid (1995)
Posted by Rob Marshall on 27th July 2019
The Blackburne Double-Strung Racquet, one of the most unique racket designs ever created.
The Blackburne DS 107 tennis racket incorporates a unique ‘double-strung’ design where two sets of strings, or string beds, lie either side of the frame. The racket was designed by Robin Blackburne, a British wine merchant and inventor residing in Bermuda, and was developed over 20 years by Blackburne Advanced Racquet Systems.
#5
Extreme String Tensions in Professional Racket Sports
Posted by Rob Marshall on 27th July 2019
A look at the professional tennis, squash and badminton players both past and present, pushing the limits of string performance.
Through the history of professional racket sports, players have explored the limitations of what both racket and string technology at the time were able to offer. String tensions among the elite players have varied considerably, often to bizarre extremes intended to suit their particular playing style, exploit the latest in material development or simply give them the competitive edge over their opponents.
#4
How to Tie the Wilson (Pro) Knot
Posted by Rob Marshall on 30th June 2019
Step-by-step instructions for tying the Wilson (Pro) Knot, an alternative to the double half hitch.
There are a variety of knots that can be used to tie off the end of a string. The double half hitch knot is perhaps the most common and is the simplest knot to learn. The Parnell knot and PC knot are also common alternatives, while some experienced stringers may even use a ‘signature’ knot of their own to mark their work. Whichever knot is used, it must secure the tension without damaging the anchor string (the string that is already installed and tensioned) and it must not come undone.
#3
How to Replace Broken Grommets
Posted by Rob Marshall on 27th May 2019
Step-by-step instructions for replacing individual grommets, to avoid having to replace whole grommet strips.
Grommets are designed to protect the strings in a racket. A broken or split grommet may present a sharp edge that can cut into the string. If the grommet is missing, the frame itself may cut into the string. This can put strings at risk of breaking, particularly on off-centre shots.
#2
Head Adaptive Fan Pattern (AFP)
Posted by Rob Marshall on 23rd May 2019
An overview of Head's unique squash racket design feature allowing two different string patterns.
The Adaptive Fan Pattern (AFP) was originally introduced by Head with the Xenon squash racket series in 2016, but is now also available in their latest rebranded closed-throat squash rackets, the Radical series, and also the teardrop shape (open-throat) Speed series, both released for 2017/18.
#1
Bergelin LongString System (1986)
Posted by Rob Marshall on 11th May 2019
A history of the LongString system, a curious tennis racket design feature unfortunately now destined to obscurity.
The MacGregor Bergelin LongString tennis racket was notable not only for its diagonal string pattern, but for its unique adjustable tensioning system.
