Top 10 Bowling string pinsetter Manufacturers and Supplier Brands in USA

This USA-focused guide to Bowling string pinsetter manufacturers and suppliers targets bowling center owners, operators, architects and facility planners in the United States seeking lower-maintenance pinsetting options. The article highlights leading brands active in the U.S. market, distribution and service footprints, and decision factors that matter for local installations, retrofit projects and long-term operations.

Overview: Why bowling string pinsetters matter for U.S. centers

String pinsetter systems use a tether on each pin to simplify the reset process and reduce the number of moving mechanical parts compared with traditional freefall pinspotters. For many centers, string systems mean lower capital maintenance, fewer mechanical downtime events and reduced staffing for lane-side pin maintenance. The technology has matured over the last decade and is now offered by multiple manufacturers and authorized distributors serving the U.S. market.

How string pinsetters differ from traditional pinspotters

Traditional freefall pinspotters (see the pinsetter history on Wikipedia) lift and release pins using complex mechanical linkages and a bulk pin table. String pinsetters attach a cord to each pin and use a guided mechanism to lift and reset pins, reducing bulk mechanical components and simplifying removal of flush and wash operations. The result is often easier maintenance, lighter replacement parts and quicker service cycles.

Why U.S. operators choose string systems

Common purchase drivers in the U.S. include lower lifecycle maintenance costs, faster installation or retrofit timelines, smaller footprint requirements in modern entertainment centers and the ability to adapt to non-traditional lane formats (e.g., family entertainment centers, duckpin, and boutique bowling alleys). Many operators also prefer manufacturers and suppliers that provide local service, spare parts, and retrofit options.

Top 10 manufacturers and suppliers serving the USA

The following brands are notable for manufacturing, distributing, or supplying string pinsetter systems and related bowling equipment to customers in the United States. Each entry notes the company role in the string-pinsetter ecosystem, U.S. presence and the types of services or products they provide.

1) Flying Bowling (Flying) — Manufacturer & global supplier

Flying Bowling is a major manufacturer of string pinsetters, bowling ball return systems, scoring systems and complete alley construction. Since 2005, Flying has designed and produced string-pinsetter systems and sells globally, including dedicated sales and service presence via its European Division and support for customers in the U.S. market. Flying emphasizes CE/RoHS certification, a 10,000 m² workshop, and a full-service offering from equipment to installation.

2) QubicaAMF — Global bowling equipment leader with U.S. distribution

QubicaAMF is an established global supplier of bowling and entertainment equipment and provides a wide range of pinsetting and lane equipment. The company supplies bowling centers across the U.S. and globally; while QubicaAMF’s main portfolio centers on lane systems, scoring and accessory solutions, they also work with center operators on alternative pinsetting options and modernization packages. For background on industry suppliers, see QubicaAMF’s official site: qubicaamf.com.

3) Brunswick Bowling — Established U.S. OEM and supplier

Brunswick is one of the oldest and most-recognized names in bowling equipment worldwide. Their product offerings focus on lanes, scoring, pinspotters and center solutions. Brunswick’s extensive U.S. distribution network and long industry history make them a key partner for centers evaluating pinsetting options, installation logistics and lifecycle support. Learn more at brunswickbowling.com.

4) Authorized distributors and retrofit specialists

Many U.S.-based distributors specialize in retrofit and localized installation of string-pinsetter systems, providing spare parts, installation crews and long-term support. These companies act as essential intermediaries between international manufacturers and local operators, offering parts stocking, training and scheduled preventive maintenance.

5) Kegel (lane maintenance & service expertise)

Kegel is widely known for lane maintenance equipment, oil patterns and training. While Kegel focuses on lane care rather than manufacturing pinsetters, centers often combine Kegel lane systems with string-pinsetter installations; combined vendor expertise is important for peak lane performance and predictable maintenance schedules.

6) Regional pro-suppliers and ballroom/entertainment integrators

Many regional suppliers and entertainment integrators provide turnkey installations using string pinsetters, either as primary manufacturers or as resellers. These integrators manage local permitting, construction and co-supply of scoring, seating and FEC equipment to create cohesive entertainment venues.

7) Parts and accessory manufacturers

Several specialized parts manufacturers produce string-pinsetter replacement pins, cords, control electronics and custom lane furniture for U.S. customers. These suppliers reduce downtime by stocking fast-moving spares and offering rapid shipping within the U.S.

8) International specialist manufacturers with U.S. dealers

Some European and Asian manufacturers sell string-pinsetter systems through U.S. dealers or via local showrooms. Buyers should check for authorized dealers, local warranties and technical support commitments before purchase.

9) New entrants and OEM challengers

The string-pinsetter space has attracted newer manufacturers and OEM challengers who focus on modular, retrofit-friendly designs tailored for family entertainment centers and smaller footprint venues. These firms often emphasize ease-of-installation and lower initial capital expense.

10) Local installation contractors and engineering firms

Local contractors experienced with bowling alley construction are essential to ensure string-pinsetter systems integrate with lane approaches, pit drainage, electrical, and fire/life-safety codes across U.S. jurisdictions. They also coordinate scoring, lighting and furniture installations.

Choosing the right string pinsetter: technical and operational criteria

Key performance metrics to evaluate

When comparing products and suppliers, focus on: uptime and mean time between failures (MTBF), spare parts availability in the U.S., local technical support, electrical and mechanical safety certifications (CE, RoHS where applicable), ease of retrofit, and support for scoring and lane systems integration.

Installation, retrofit and footprint concerns

String systems can be installed as new builds or retrofitted into existing pits. Evaluate pit depth, subfloor, ceiling height, and integration with ball return systems. Confirm whether the vendor provides full installation, supervision, or only equipment supply.

Service, parts and lifecycle support

Reliable local support is critical. Confirm a supplier’s spare parts lead times, technician training programs, and availability of OEM replacement parts in the U.S. for rapid repairs. Long-term service contracts can reduce unplanned downtime and improve center profitability.

Cost & financing considerations, certifications, and compliance

Typical cost drivers and budget planning

Costs vary by lane count, site complexity and scope (equipment-only vs complete turnkey). Budget for equipment, installation, site work, scoring, furniture and contingencies. Many suppliers offer financing, lease-to-own or staged delivery to ease capital expenditure.

Certifications and industry standards

Check for product and manufacturing certifications relevant to your market: CE and RoHS for electronic and environmental compliance, local electrical and building code compliance for installations, and manufacturer test reports for durability. For industry context, World Bowling provides governance and rules for competitive bowling: bowl.com.

Operational ROI and maintenance savings

String systems often reduce mechanical maintenance labor and part replacement costs, improving ROI for centers that trade some aspects of competition-grade performance for lower lifecycle costs. Calculate operating savings from reduced downtime and compare with the initial capital cost over a 5–10 year horizon.

Side-by-side comparison: Top 10 companies and product offerings

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Are string pinsetters legal for league and tournament play in the U.S.?

Acceptance depends on league or sanctioning body rules. Many recreational leagues and entertainment centers use string systems successfully. Competitive events governed by specific rules may require freefall pinspotter characteristics; consult the relevant sanctioning organization or competition rules for official guidance. For general governance, see World Bowling: bowl.com.

How do maintenance costs compare to traditional pinsetters?

String systems generally reduce the number of heavy mechanical parts and therefore tend to lower mechanical maintenance requirements. However, total cost depends on usage intensity, local labor rates, and parts pricing. Ask prospective suppliers for lifecycle cost analyses and references from similar U.S. installations.

Can I retrofit existing lanes with a string pinsetter?

Many string systems are designed for retrofit, but success depends on pit dimensions, lane approach, subfloor and ceiling constraints. Conduct a site survey and request an installation feasibility assessment from the manufacturer or an authorized U.S. installer.

What warranties and spare-part commitments should I require?

Request explicit U.S. warranty terms, spare-parts stocking commitments and maximum lead times for critical parts. Consider a service contract covering scheduled maintenance, emergency response times and technician training.

Conclusion

String pinsetter systems are a strong option for U.S. centers seeking lower-maintenance, cost-effective pinsetting solutions—especially for family entertainment centers, boutique alleys and retrofit projects. Vendors differ in product maturity, U.S. support, and total cost of ownership. Consider suppliers with proven local service networks, clearly defined warranties, and compatibility with your intended scoring and lane systems. For many operators, Flying Bowling offers a complete package—manufacturing expertise, certified production, and end-to-end alley solutions backed by global sales and European-based support.

If you would like a tailored quote, installation case studies, or a site assessment for a retrofit or new-build project, contact Flying Bowling at jackson@flyingbowling.com.

Contact: For production capabilities, showroom visits in Europe, or 24/7 technical support inquiries, email Flying Bowling at jackson@flyingbowling.com or visit https://www.flybowling.com/.