Gamma's II 602 FC or ST II

[WimpLo]

I've narrowed it down to these two stringers:

• Gamma Progression ST II - $679.00
• Gamma Progression II 602 FC - $469.00

Facts to Consider:

1. I'm a beginner stringer
2. Going over $500 is something I would like to avoid (unless it's worth it)
3. I break strings once a month
4. I plan on playing tennis forever (I'm currently 32)

My question is simple... Is the ST II worth the extra $210 and why/why not?

Many Thanks,

WimpLo

 

[ambro]

No. You'll save a bit of time, but that's about it. Honestly, it's a bit more fun stringing with a crank, but I think a dropweight produces a better stringbed because of the constant pull. And apart from that, the machines are identical. I started out with a Gamma X-6 FC (basically same as 602 FC) five years ago, and recently upgraded to an Apex II. I prefer doing the actual stringing on a crank, because it's (marginally) quicker and easier. However, if I strung for myself only, or maybe also a few friends, the 602 FC is the perfect choice IMO.

I preferred the stringbeds I got from my dropweight, but that is most likely just because I got used to that, and the stringbed was different moving to a lockout machine. Bud will/would tell you to get an X-2, because nothing else is necessary, but I feel the better mounting and clamps on a 602 FC (or X-6 FC) are worth it.

 

[WimpLo]

Sorry, I should have mentioned that it would only be for me. But these are all good points. Thanks a lot ambro!

 

[SpinDog]

I recently purchased the Gamma Progression II 602FC and am very satisfied with it. It's a quality machine. The very first racquet that came off the machine played very well. It takes a little time and effort but the machine is capable of a high quality job.

 

[WimpLo]

Thanks SpinDog. Knowing that puts me at ease when I purchase it.

 

[supermario343]

I also own the Gamma Progression II 602FC and I only string for myself and a few friends. Havent had any problems with it yet..very solid and sturdy too

 

[rich s]

I have a 602FC for at least 7 years now......it's a solid machine and does an excellent job but I got tired of the drop weight after a while.

I wound up adapting a Wise 2086 tension head to it because I didn't want a lock out machine.....but that's another post.

 

[chief wiggum]

I have used drop weights a I think they are tedious to string on. IMO, I would spend the extra money and get the crank. My brother has a Gamma 5003 and it is a great machine. I have also used Gamma's drop weights and I am not very impressed with them.

 

[COPEY]

I have a 602FC for at least 7 years now......it's a solid machine and does an excellent job but I got tired of the drop weight after a while.

I wound up adapting a Wise 2086 tension head to it because I didn't want a lock out machine.....but that's another post.

How difficult (or easy) is it to put on a Wise?