position statements

---

Fellow stringers often ask me what I think about certain racquet service topics. I will periodically post position statements here. Be sure to check back regularly as positions often change as new technologies and techniques emerge.

Updated: 18 Aug 2022

1-piece versus 2-piece stringing, also known as 2-knots versus 4-knots.

Neither method is better than the other, nor does either method produce a better result than the other. However it is important that stringers remain proficient at stringing with both 1- and 2-piece methods. Therefore -

• For frames that tie off mains at the head, string 1-piece. This includes situations where the reference tension for the mains and the crosses are different.
• For frames that tie off mains at the throat, string 2-piece.

There are several exceptions.

• Certain racquet manufacturers require 2-piece string installation regardless of where the mains tie off. Stringers should follow these requirements in order to maintain the racquet’s warranty.
• If a player specifically requests 2-knots or 4-knots, use the appropriate 1-piece or 2-piece stringing method to satisfy the request. The stringer should communicate any possible warranty implications with the player prior to stringing.
• For hybrid stringing, these must be strung 2-piece regardless of where the mains tie off.
• For aesthetic purposes only, feeding strings through double blocked holes should be avoided. Use any 1-piece around-the-world or box stringing method to avoid double blocked holes near the throat of the racquet. This includes situations where the reference tension for the mains and the crosses are different.
• When time is of the essence, such as stringing at tournaments, 4-knots should be the standard offered, with 2-knots available only upon player request.

Copoly monofilament strings for junior tennis players.

Regardless of age, for junior players who consistently break multifilament strings, the use of copoly monofilament strings is a viable option, starting with the thinnest, highest elasticity copoly installed at the lowest tension that compliments the frame and is suitable for the player’s skill level. Using a reference tension that is lower than the frame specifications is acceptable. The stringer should communicate the pros and cons of copoly strings to the parent and be open to feedback from the parent, coach, and player.

Use of plastic bags to store and transfer finished racquets.

CCS supports the use of low density polyethylene (LDPE) bags to transfer finished racquets to players. Players should be encouraged to reuse bags for future drop offs, or to recycle them through their local public works programs. Multiple racquets for the same players should be placed in the same bag whenever possible.

Tie off knots and location.

• Tie off knots must be secure and neat in appearance. No one type of knot is more effective than another, so long as the knot serves its purpose. Tails should be trimmed to no more than ¼-inch.
• Tying off on grommets other than those specified by the manufacturer is recommended only if doing so reduces the length of string on the outside of the frame. This includes tying off on an adjacent grommet. 
• For hybrid stringing, the stringer should tie off on the same type of string. This might require enlarging holes for the cross tie-offs. The exception for this is on certain Head Prestige racquets with CAP grommet systems. Enlarging holes on these frames risks damaging the exterior of the grommet system and should not be attempted. Directional grommet systems like those found on certain Babolat Pure Aero models also prevent the stringer from tying off the top cross on the same type of string.

Use of a starting knot to begin crosses.

CCS supports the use of a starting knot to begin crosses. In terms of functionality, the end result of using a starting knot instead of a starting clamp is the same.

Use of a starting clamp to begin crosses.

For aesthetic purposes only, the use of a starting clamp is the preferred method to begin crosses. This ensures all knots on the completed racquet are the same. To avoid prolonged clamping of the top cross string, the top cross should be tied off as soon as the closest fixed clamp becomes free. Often this is after the third cross has been clamped off.

Use of starting blocks, pads, or similar devices. 

The use of starting blocks, pads, or similar devices to protect the segment of string that wraps around the outside of the frame is not necessary, regardless of the type of string. However, the use of these devices to prevent the starting clamp from scratching the frame of the racquet is encouraged.

Measuring stringbed dynamic tension.

Dynamic tension (DT) is a data point, not the data point. A handheld DT device or a downloadable racquet tuning app are no comparison to the accuracy of the stringing machine, the skill and consistency of the stringer, and the feel of the racquet during play.

Kevlar string.

Use kevlar string when creating a bridge with a starting clamp or with a tension calibrator. This is the only practical use for kevlar string in tennis today.