What Is the “Pin” on a Tennis Racket?

There isn’t a standard part officially called a “pin” on a tennis racket; the term usually refers to one of several small items that look pin-like. Depending on where you see it—at the butt end, in the strings, along the frame holes, or on new-racket packaging—it’s likely a butt-cap latch or staple, a vibration dampener, a string saver, a grommet peg, or a retail hang-tag fastener. Below is how to identify each and what it does.

What people often mean by “the pin”

When players mention a “pin,” they’re typically describing one of a few small parts or accessories that either ship with the racket or are installed by players or retailers. Here are the most common candidates and their purposes.

• Butt-cap trap-door latch or plug: A small plastic latch at the base of the handle that lets you open the butt cap to add weight or access the handle cavity.
• Butt-cap staples or small nails: Metal fasteners that secure the grip and butt cap to the handle; they can look like pins.
• Vibration dampener: A small rubber or silicone piece installed between the two center main strings near the throat; some people informally call it a “pin.”
• String savers (e.g., Babolat Elastocross): Tiny plastic inserts placed between intersecting strings to reduce friction and extend string life; they resemble small pins.
• Grommet pegs/tubes: The black plastic pieces that line the frame holes and protect the strings; the ends can look like little posts or pins.
• Retail hang-tag fastener: A plastic T-shaped fastener inserted through the strings on new rackets to hold tags; it should be removed and discarded.

If you can describe where the “pin” is located and what it looks like, you can usually match it to one of these items and know whether to leave it alone, remove it, or replace it.

How to identify the “pin” by location

At the very end of the handle (butt cap)

If the pin-like piece is on the base of the handle:

– It’s likely a butt-cap trap-door latch/plug (plastic) or a staple (metal). Some brands use a small snap-in door at the butt to access the handle cavity for customization or previously for smart sensors. Don’t yank it out; if it’s a trap door, gently pry it open with a small flat tool along the notch. Metal pieces here are usually staples—do not remove them unless you’re replacing the grip or butt cap.

Between the lowest cross and the throat

If you see a small rubber or silicone piece between the two center mains near the throat, it’s a vibration dampener. It reduces string “ping” and some high-frequency vibration. For official play, the ITF permits dampeners only outside the pattern of crossed strings—typically below the lowest cross—so keep it near the throat rather than in the hitting area.

In the hitting area between strings

If there are tiny plastic inserts at string intersections in the sweet spot, they’re string savers. They can extend string life and slightly stiffen the stringbed feel. They’re optional; remove with tweezers if you don’t want them, and install new ones only where strings saw into each other.

Along the frame holes

If the “pins” are part of a long black strip around the head, they’re grommets (pegs/tubes). These protect strings from the graphite. Don’t pull them out unless you’re replacing a cracked grommet set; replacements are sold as “bumper and grommet sets” tailored to your racket model.

On a new racket with tags

A small clear or white plastic T-fastener through the strings is a retail hang-tag pin. Snip it carefully with scissors and discard; it has no on-court purpose.

What to do with each “pin”

Here’s a quick guide to actions you might take for each type of pin-like part.

• Butt-cap latch/plug: Open only if you’re customizing weight/balance or servicing the handle. Close securely afterward.
• Butt-cap staples: Leave in place unless regripping or replacing the butt cap.
• Vibration dampener: Optional; install below the lowest cross. Remove anytime by sliding it out.
• String savers: Optional; add or remove as desired to manage durability and feel.
• Grommets: Inspect for cracks; replace the full bumper/grommet set when worn or sharp to protect strings and frame.
• Hang-tag fastener: Remove and discard before play.

If in doubt—especially with parts attached to the handle or frame—consult a stringer or technician. Removing the wrong piece can loosen your grip assembly or damage the frame.

Troubleshooting common confusions

There’s a rattle that sounds like a loose pin inside the frame

That’s usually a small fragment of graphite, dried foam, or a broken grommet piece, not a “pin.” You can sometimes shake it out by rotating the racket and gently tapping so it migrates to an open grommet hole at the throat, then coax it out with tweezers.

Is a dampener required or legal?

It’s not required. It’s legal only outside the crossed-string pattern (typically just above the throat). Placing it within the stringbed’s crossed area is not allowed in sanctioned matches.

Can I open the butt cap to add weight?

Yes, on models with a trap door. Use tungsten putty or pre-cut weights and secure them to avoid rattles. If your butt cap is stapled without a door, a pro shop can help with safe customization.

Summary

There’s no single, standard “pin” on a tennis racket. What people call a pin is usually a butt-cap latch or staple, a vibration dampener, a string saver, a grommet peg, or a retail tag fastener. Identify it by location and material: handle base (latch/staples), near throat (dampener), string intersections (string savers), frame holes (grommets), or packaging (tag fastener). Most of these are either protective parts you should leave alone or optional accessories you can add/remove without issue.