Hi, i string my own racquets using a simple gamma drop weight machine. I use a string called Prince Beast its a very hard string, very very hard. I don't have a starting clamp, so i have to use a starting knot, and i just can't seem to find a knot that i can tie, the string is just too stiff. I tie double half hitches for finishing knots, and than use my tensioner to tighten the knot just a bit because its so stiff that its really difficult to hand tighten. Last time i strung my racquet, i just couldn't get a starting knot to tie, so i just used a double half hitch, which i know isn't a starting knot, but it worked. So, any reccomendations for a good starting knot, i really like the string i'm using right now. On a side note, other than ease of use, is there any benefit to using a starting clamp? is it safer for the racquet? thanks