AS some of you may already know by reading previous threads, I use gut strings at 23lbs.

I have noticed recently that a new re-string will start to go (loose tension) after about 2-3 weeks with no incriment in playing time. This has happened on my last 4 re-strings. Using two different types of rackets: 2 X AS1 and 2 X 85g (both Carlton)

Before this I usualy could go for at least 3 months on one racket without needing a re-string, although the strings would go fluffy the tension felt right all the way through until it would just suddenly go.

Can anyone tell me why this is?

Did you put your racket under hot and/or humid condition?

The gut string would lose tension under such condition....

there are various factors.

one is the type of string. some string like the Yonex bg65 are prone to losing tension. bg85 is better in that respect.

another factor is the stringing process. if the stringer uses a constant pull machine (like a electronic or drop weight), then it will not lose tension as much as a crank machine. even for a crank machine if the stringer tensions slowly, the string will pre-stretch better.

The problem is that the strings have been strung in the same machine by the same stringer for about 2 years, this problem has only recently occured. (I mean that each re-string has been done by the same person and the same machine, not that the strings are two years old)

No reenignelivic the rackets have not been subject to any changes of temperatures, they are always kept in the same place. That is why I don't understand why the tension has gone after such a short period of time.

Is it possible with the Gut being a natural material that I could possibly have had a bad batch, although the strings were ordered seperatley from the manufacturer?

I don't suppose you're changing your playing habits, such as playing more often, smashing harder, changing shuttlecocks?

Nope, nothing has changed that I have noticed.

I may smash once or twice more than usual but enough to upset the tension after two weeks, I doubt it (as for smashing harder, I wish). Still playing in the same venues and still using Yehlex tournament shuttles. As for playing time it's roughly about 2 weeks which means about just under 20 hours of club nights.