https://ja.aliexpress.com/item/1005...00021908573632!sea&curPageLogUid=ttMUW0NqMadl I saw this starting clamp on Aliexpress, if you want to try and post a review that would be cool, it looks pretty good to me, I cant afford new tools now.
Looks heavily „inspired“ by the Toyo starting clamp. I’ve been eyeing this compact one from the same seller for a while now: https://a.aliexpress.com/_EJsL2ax Should be perfect to use for tightening knots. But so far I couldn’t make myself spend 50 bucks just for knotting.
Same here, but cheaper! https://e78shop.com/fr/collections/badminton-grip/products/grommet-enlarge-mouth-nipper-ac003
I think that I will wait a little bit before purchasing one as it is not necessary for me… Maybe later I will purchase one from amazon for around 50$ cdn (similar to gamma’s starting clamp) to save string.
I think with the Gamma clamp it is diamond coated, so if the string slips, it is going to pull coating off, maybe lower tensions not a problem but something to think about. The Yonex starting clamp and I think that China clamp are smooth so if the string slips, it is just going to slip and you can tighten the clamps. If you are going to invest in tools you should think how they will last in the long run.
I know how much you are fixated on high quality equipment. But a Yonex starting clamp for a newbie stringer is kind of the ultimate overkill. The Gamma-style one clearly is sufficient for tying knots and extending the string if needed once in a while.
I started with a good ole Eagnas starting clamp. Over time if you continue to string long term then it's definitely worth upgrading your equipment. I eventually upgraded to a Yonex starting clamp. Kimony has the same one just rebranded.
