Comments: I have 3 tennis players in the family that play on regular basis. So having about 3-4 racquets or more restrung a month was getting a little pricey. After looking online and reading reviews of some stringers I had to choose between this machine and the older model Gamma X2. The reviews were great on both stringers, so I went with this machine. It didn't take a long time to get this item. The stringer came with 6 sets of demo strings which is probably around $60-$70 value. I had a chance to string 2 racquets already, and let me tell you that I couldn't be more happier. After watching a couple of videos on youtube, and scanning through USRSA booklet that came with the stringer, it took me around 1 hour per racquet. One thing I noticed is that the tension is just a little off, comparing to machines with electronic tension. So next time I string a racquet, I will add 1-2 pounds to get to desired tension. Other than that, this machine is fantastic. If you are a player that would like to string your own racquets without spending a fortune on equipment, this is the machine you need to go with. I am sure high dollar machines will have precise tension and save you 5-10 minutes, but the end result is the same.
From: Rasheed, 10/12

Comments: Figured I would wait until after I played a set using my first ever string job to review my new stringer, and the result was fantastic! Man, I can't believe I waited this long to buy one of these things. I'm a total novice, as I've never strung a racquet before, and I was completely impressed at my ability to do it using this thing. It was a total win.
From: Mike, 10/12

Comments: This stringer is honestly a great investment. It's simple to use and it gets the job done correctly. What more could I ask for? It's a great stringer when you're first starting. My best time was about half an hour on it. It definitely took a while when I was first starting, but once you get used to it, it's pretty great. I definitely recommend it to first time stringers.
From: Wadih, 9/12

Comments: Well I have not used this machine but I have a Klippermate and a Gamma X2, and I guess this is the new model to that? Well for the money this is the single best investment a regular tennis player should aim for. I use a drop weight machine when I'm away and doing coaching courses where a normal stringer isn't available. My first stringer was a Klippermate that I purchased used and it has paid for itself 1,000 times over, especially when you start out and friends need racquets strung, you soon make the money back. I moved abroad for a bit and wanted a drop weight to take around with me and I purchased the Gamma X2 and it was perfect for my needs. Heck if your only doing a handful of racquets each week then a drop weight is all that you need. I would only stress at using it if I'm stringing 12+ sticks a week. The only down side is the clamps when stringing wood racquets go high up on the crosses but I guess for 98% of buyers this will never be a issue as they will never go near wood! Stringing does take a bit of practice and honestly there is more than enough videos on the tube to help. I've taught a few people to string in my time and most will have there own quirks to making the job easier. It's also nice to be able to play around with tensions and setups with only the small cost of the strings and cutting out the bulk of the cost that is the man hours! Honestly If you're thinking of buying a stringer do it! It's a good skill to have, you will make some cash back at your local club or group of friends, and looking at this Gamma for the dollar is a no brainer...
From: Anon, 8/12

Comments: It took me several hours to figure out what I was doing since I'd never strung a racquet before. It was a bit confusing at first, but I found two videos on youtube.com that helped a lot and then another video that showed how to tie the knots. I agree with a previous comment that the sandpaper on the tension wheel isn't a problem if you do it right. The stringer is very mobile, and light weight with smooth movement. I can string a racquet between 45 min. and 1.5 hours depending on how dedicated I am to going quickly. Add strings to that, this is possibly one of the best deals for a dedicated tennis player.
From: Jody, 5/12

Comments: I was surprised at how well this stringer worked and how easy it was to operate. I'll admit I didn't know what I was doing the first time I used it, but I just had to watch a video on YouTube and it was easy enough to figure out. I don't have a tension tester, but it seems nice and accurate just based on feel. I would definitely recommend this stringer, even if you aren't on a budget. It works fine, and there isn't a noticeable difference on the time it takes to string compared to a crank machine, once you figure out how to use this one. You'll save yourself so much money with this stringer, and it's just as accurate as more expensive ones.
From: Geoff, 5/12

Comments: Well, it took me 2 hours just to figure out what I was doing. I kept releasing the wrong clamp and having to start over! However, once I was doing things right, it took me about 1 1/2 hours to finish. Crosses are really easy because you can string ahead two rows and you only need one clamp as you work down. I was very nervous that the tension wouldn't be right, but it seems nice and tight at 58 lbs, so I feel confident in the accuracy. Using the machine is pretty simple. Some people said that the string can get scratched from the sandpaper on the tension wheel, but honestly, if you do it right, that won't happen. Overall, I'm impressed with what you get verses what you pay. The strings they include go from one cheap synthetic gut (good for practicing) and the rest are very nice high end strings and a hybrid set! You're getting $80 in strings. Assuming $30-40 for a pro job, it pays for itself just by using the strings it came with. I'm astounded at the deal you're getting with this. I agree with other comments, there are several you-tube videos that show you how to start. Also, practice the knots (bulky and Wilson Pro) with some rope to get the hang of it. The book is alright, but it doesn't pertain to the progression 200, just stringers in general. I didn't find it all that helpful compared to videos which are more descriptive, but there are tips that are worth reading.
From: Andy, USA, 12/11

Comments: I had a terrible time with this stringing machine because its a drop weight, fly clamps and most important the part were you wrap the string around to then pull has sand paper on the edges and it will destroy the string.
From: John, 12/11

Comments: Never strung any racquet before and took me hours to do it first time. Now strung four racquets without any problem but buy a string clamp. I mean you can do the job without starting clamp but it will save you time on knots and beginning of stringing. It came with 6 packs of string and instructions guide but online has pretty good video to get starting. Now I can experiment with different string without spending tons on stringing cost.
From: Ken, 12/11

Comments: A good stringer to start out on, simple to use, if you are not careful your tension will vary a little but a very good stringer over all for the price.
From: Mark, 9/11

Comments: I had never strung a racket before so my first time it took hours, but this stringer comes with great instructions with pictures and everything. I haven't had any problems with the string slipping at all from the drop weight or the clamps. It comes with all the tools you need to get started (you may want to get a starting clamp eventually). It also comes with 6, 40ft strings of different types (or at least when I bought it from Tennis Warehouse it did). Great machine for the price.
From: Greg. 7/11

Comments: The Gamma Progression 200 is a great machine. It took me 2 hours my first time because I had no idea what I was doing. Now I string a racquet in 45 minutes and 15 minutes is just cutting the string and taking it out of the package. It is very easy to use and consistent. I like dropweight machines because of the constant pulls. The only down side is if one strings are at a high tension the clamps may slip if they are not tight when starting the mains. But not to much of a problem for me since I bought a starting clamp and took care of that problem. I covered the back of the clamps with tape and cloth because the back of the handles are sharp. Great price!
From: Anon, 7/11

Comments: I own the now discontinued ATS traveler which shares the exact same mounting system, clamps, and drop weight mechanics as this stringer, the only difference is that this stringer has a much more stable base compared to traveler. For a budget stringer, it's a great buy!
From: Tyson. 6/11

Comments: I have the Gamma X2, which is the same stringer, but has a different tool tray. It is very easy to use, love the ratchet clutch on the drop weight lever, and it has been very consistent. Compact size allows me to string racquets out of the back of the SUV if my son or I break strings at a tournament. With 2 hard-hitting players in the house, it has paid for itself within the first 2 months.
Cons: The composite clamps have very sharp edges on the back of the cam lock handles. They will cut up you hands unless you put a little tape over the handles or file the sharp edges on the back.
From: Sean, GA, USA, 03/11

Comments: What is the actual weight of this machine?
From: Jober, Philippines, 03/11
(Jober, the machine weighs 24 lbs and dimensions are 24"x11"x13".--TW Staff)

Comments: Just purchased the Gamma Progression 200 stringing machine along with some 4 nylon Ashaway Liberty string packages to practice with. Just finished stringing my Head Liquidmetal 8 racket in practice for my new Head YouTek Speed Lite when needed. Took me about 1 1/2 hours and did a pretty good job if I do say so myself! Love the ratchet action on this stringer. Super easy to use. And best of all, I don't have to pay for stringing. Came with 6 different Gamma strings as listed in the specs as well as the tools. I bought diagonal pliers rather than using the razor cutter included. The USRSA booklet that came with the string was very helpful. But I would suggest you go to Youtube and watch a number of videos...extremely helpful. This is a great little stringer and very easy to use. I'm a 3.0 level player and have been playing since September (about 7 months). Joining a league so I plan to keep my strings nice and new by restringing myself.
From: Dean, Charleston, WV, USA, 03/11

Comments: For the price it is great for a beginner who just wants to string your own racket. I usually finish one racket in an hour and a half. Not bad for a starter. I do save a lot now and don't have to worry if my strings break....I love it.
From: Edee, Toms River, NJ, USA, 01/11