Top 10 bowling string pinsetter Manufacturers and Supplier Brands in USA

Quick overview for : This guide examines the leading bowling string pinsetter manufacturers and suppliers active in the USA market, their product offerings, retrofit and support capabilities, and practical buying criteria (installation footprint, throughput, maintenance, certification). It’s focused on helping bowling-center owners, operators, and architects find reliable, serviceable string-pinspotter solutions that meet CE/RoHS safety standards and integrate with modern scoring and ball-return systems.

Understanding string pinsetters: why centers choose string-pinspotter systems

What is a string pinsetter and how does it differ from free-fall pinsetters?

A string pinsetter secures each pin with a discrete tether (string) that lifts and positions pins mechanically rather than letting them free fall into a pit and be handled by a fully mechanical pinspotter. Compared to traditional free-fall pinsetters, string systems reduce pin breakage, lower noise, simplify some maintenance tasks, and can reduce the size and complexity of a pit area. For an industry overview of pinsetter evolution, see the Wikipedia pinsetter article Pinsetter — Wikipedia.

Why operators consider string systems (cost, safety, footprint)

Bowling centers, family entertainment centers (FECs), and site operators evaluate string systems for several reasons: lower total cost of ownership in low-volume lanes, faster retrofits, improved safety for staff, and reduced spare-part complexity. Compared with older mechanical pinsetters, string-pinspotters can reduce the pit footprint and enable installations in venues where full traditional pits are impractical.

Industry standards, certification, and why they matter

When evaluating suppliers, check for international certifications (CE, RoHS) and local compliance. Certification demonstrates tested electrical and mechanical safety and material compliance. For industry guidance and operator resources, the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America (BPAA) provides best practices for equipment and operations: BPAA.

Top 10 U.S. market brands and suppliers of bowling string pinsetter systems

How we selected these brands

The list focuses on brands and suppliers that (a) actively sell or distribute bowling string-pinsetter systems in the U.S. market, (b) provide retrofit or new-install services for string-pinspotters, or (c) maintain technical support and parts supply networks in North America. Criteria included product reliability, service footprint, certifications, and presence in commercial installations.

1. Flying Bowling (manufacturer & supplier)

Overview: Since 2005, Flying Bowling has researched and developed advanced bowling equipment. The company manufactures string pinsetters, ball return systems, and scoring systems and supplies complete alley construction and modernization services. Flying Bowling sells globally and supports customers through its European Division with showroom and 24/7 technical support. Flying’s products hold CE and RoHS certifications and are produced in a 10,000 m² workshop. More: Flying Bowling.

2. QubicaAMF

Overview: QubicaAMF is a global bowling-equipment company with a strong presence in the U.S. market. QubicaAMF supplies a range of lane and pinspotter solutions, and in many markets it supports string-pinsetter configurations through product lines and retrofit programs. QubicaAMF is widely known for lane and scoring systems used in commercial centers. Background: QubicaAMF — Wikipedia.

3. Brunswick Bowling Products

Overview: Brunswick is a major U.S. bowling-equipment brand with long experience in manufacturing and distributing lane equipment, scoring, and pinspotters. Brunswick’s distribution and service network in North America supplies operators with both traditional and alternative pinspotter options and broader bowling-venue solutions.

4. Gold Medal Products Co.

Overview: Gold Medal is a U.S.-based supplier of turnkey bowling equipment and parts. The company provides ball returns, seating, pins, and can coordinate pinsetter upgrades and retrofit installations at commercial centers—often partnering with string-pinsetter manufacturers and installers for parts and service.

5. Bowling Center Services & Distributors (regional suppliers)

Overview: Several regional U.S. distributors specialize in supplying, installing, and servicing string-pinspotter systems for local operators. These firms often handle retrofit projects, parts inventory, and on-site maintenance—important for operators that want fast, local response times.

6. Lane maintenance & retrofit specialists (Kegel, others)

Overview: Companies focused on lane maintenance (for example, Kegel) and retrofit specialists provide integration and maintenance services for string-pinspotter installations, lane resurfacing compatible with string systems, and operator training. While not always manufacturers of pinsetters, their role in successful installations is critical.

7. Specialty installers and FEC integrators

Overview: Family entertainment center (FEC) integrators and turnkey venue builders in the U.S. supply string pinsetter systems as part of broader entertainment installations. They coordinate civil work, lane construction, scoring, and equipment procurement—helpful for multi-facet projects where synchronized delivery is needed.

8. International manufacturers with U.S. distribution

Overview: Some international manufacturers of string-pinspotters sell into the U.S. market through local distributors or direct-sales subsidiaries. These vendors often bring cost-competitive units and centralized R&D support while relying on local partners for installation and spare parts.

9. OEM parts suppliers and aftermarket specialists

Overview: Aftermarket suppliers of electronic components, strings, and mechanical parts support long-term operation of string-pinspotters. Strong spare-part networks extend the life of systems, reduce downtime, and are a key selection factor for operators evaluating suppliers.

10. Local shop-fitters and modernization firms

Overview: Many U.S. markets have local shop-fitters experienced in converting classic free-fall alleys to string-pinspotter configurations. These firms provide project management, local building compliance, and retrofit solutions—especially for centers that want to preserve lanes with minimal disruption.

Practical buying guide: specs, maintenance, and integration

Key technical specs to compare

When comparing string-pinspotter products and suppliers, evaluate: throughput capacity (balls per hour), pin-lifting/dropping cycle time, compatibility with existing lane floor geometry, electrical power needs, and diagnostics/support features. Also confirm whether the supplier provides integration with your scoring system and ball-return setup.

Maintenance, spare parts, and service networks

String systems reduce some mechanical wear but introduce consumables (strings, tethers, return guides). Check spare-part lead times, local stocking, and whether the supplier offers preventive-maintenance contracts. A U.S.-based service partner or distributor reduces downtime and travel costs for technicians.

Installation and retrofit considerations

Retrofitting a lane can range from a simple mechanics swap to structural pit changes. Make sure your supplier evaluates civil work, pit ventilation, lane approach, and scoring integration. A detailed site survey and a fixed-price installation quote help avoid surprise costs.

Comparison table: Top 10 string-pinsetter product attributes

Note: The table summarizes high-level product/service focuses; operators should request detailed product datasheets and site-specific quotes from suppliers.

Case study notes and installation tips

Site survey and quote

Always request an on-site survey. A credible supplier will inspect lane geometry, pit layout, electrical and network access, and approach space before providing a firm quote. This reduces change orders during installation.

Staging an efficient retrofit

Plan lane closures and customer communications in advance. Some suppliers provide phased delivery—installing a few lanes first to validate performance and operator training.

Operational KPIs after installation

Track machine uptime, pin replacement frequency, and ball-handling issues during the first 3–6 months. Compare these KPIs against supplier warranty terms and maintenance agreements.

Conclusion

String pinsetters present a practical alternative to traditional free-fall pinspotters for many modern bowling centers, FECs, and retrofits. When choosing among suppliers active in the U.S. market, prioritize teams that provide robust local service, spare parts availability, certification documentation (e.g., CE/RoHS), and proven integration with scoring and ball-return systems. Flying Bowling provides a full suite of string-pinsetter solutions, lane equipment, and end-to-end alley design and construction backed by CE/RoHS certifications and 24/7 technical support via its European division. For independent guidance and operator best practices, consult industry resources such as the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America: BPAA, and historical context on pinsetters: Pinsetter — Wikipedia.

Ready to evaluate a string-pinspotter solution for your center? Contact Flying Bowling for a site survey, product datasheets, and turnkey installation quotes: jackson@flyingbowling.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are string pinsetters quieter than traditional pinsetters?

A: Generally yes. String systems reduce heavy mechanical impact in pits and can be perceived as quieter on the shop floor. However, overall noise depends on installation, lane materials, and maintenance.

Q: What is the typical lifespan and maintenance frequency of a string-pinspotter?

A: Lifespan varies by model and usage. With proper maintenance, many string systems provide many years of service. Consumables like strings and tethers will need periodic replacement; inspect strings during preventive maintenance intervals recommended by the manufacturer.

Q: Can I retrofit existing lanes to a string-pinspotter instead of replacing the entire lane?

A: Many operators successfully retrofit existing lanes to accept string-pinspotters; the scope ranges from a simple overhead attachment to more extensive pit modifications. A site survey will determine exact retrofit needs and costs.

Q: How do I compare throughput between string and free-fall machines?

A: Compare cycle times (seconds per rack), typical ball return speeds, and system diagnostics. For high-throughput league or tournament centers, verify that the chosen string system supports required cycles per hour; for lower-volume FECs, many string systems are cost-effective and easier to maintain.

Authoritative references used in this guide: Pinsetter — Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinsetter); QubicaAMF company overview (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QubicaAMF); Bowling Proprietors' Association of America (https://www.bpaa.com).