Pool Cue Buying Guide: Everything You Should Know About Buying Pool Cues

When it comes to improving your pool-playing equipment, you may already have a cue of your own. In addition, we’ve penned this piece for your convenience.

Our goal at Triangle Billiards is that this information will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a pool cue. Please contact us if you end up with questions after reading this post. We’d be delighted to assist you in any way we can!

How to Tell if a Pool Cue is Good Quality

There isn’t as much of a difference in the quality of your cue as some people believe. A new model of cue won’t magically improve your game, so don’t keep switching it up. Any excellent cue with a respectable tip can be played well by a strong player who is familiar with one. To improve your game, you don’t need a high-end cue. In spite of this, you can always look around for cues that might be a good fit for your playing style.

Types of Cues

First and foremost, let’s make a fundamental distinction: Since every game has its own unique set of rules and signals, there are a wide variety of options for players to choose from when it comes to the most popular games around the globe. Although, it’s true that in the end, we’re talking about an unadorned wooden board with a leather cover on top. In theory, you could play pool with a snooker cue or vice versa with great success. Many of the cues’ quirks have developed over time and aren’t necessarily required. Even so, we recommend that you employ the correct cue for the game at hand.

Pool

American pool billiards is the most popular form of the game in most nations today, with 15 colored balls numbered 1-15

(stripes, solids, and the black 8) being played in six holes. There’s no need to get into the rules of the game for now, but suffice to say that there’s more than meets the eye in terms of the cues. One of the peculiarities of pool billiards is that it requires players to use not just one cue but up to three: one for playing, one for breaking the cue ball, and one for making the white cue ball hop as required by the game’s regulations.

As a precaution, keep in mind that a standard game cue is sufficient for most casual players. Find out what makes a cue stick in the following sections:

Playing Cue

The upper portion of cues in pool billiards is usually always composed of maple wood. A variety of timbers can be used for the lower portion, with maple being the most common. With a thread sandwiched in the middle, playing cues are constructed of two sections. This does nothing to improve the cue’s playing capabilities (in fact, it has the opposite effect), but it does make it easier to transport.

Jump Cue

Using a special cue called a jump cue means that the cue ball can be forced to leap in accordance with the rules of the game. It’s fine to hop over “interfering” balls in the pool as long as you stick to the rules and don’t “lift” the cue ball. Jump cues are shorter than standard cues since you have to hit the ball at a steep angle when you’re leaping. Classic jump cues are typically between 41 to 42 inches long and are normally split in two to fit within a conventional cue case.

Break Cue

Break cues often feature a maple upper section and a distinct wood lower section. A harder and more controlled break is possible because of the cue being shielded from warping during the hard break.

Snooker

There are 15 pink, numberless balls in snooker, six numbered object balls, and one cue ball used to play the game, while there are 9 to 15 object balls and a cue ball used to play pool on a table with six pockets. Cues used in snooker are often of a very specialized design. Cues in billiards, on the other hand, tend to be more traditional in appearance and structure. The typical length is between 57.5 and 58 inches, and the standard weight is between 17 and 18 ounces.

Snooker Cue Tips

Snooker cues are usually composed of ash. Cues are made of ash, a sturdy wood with a dense grain that provides both solidity and a refined look. Each cue is unique, and no two are alike. Snooker cue tops can also be made from maple, according to certain cue producers. Ebony is generally always used for the bottom of snooker cues; however other woods like rosewood or mahogany are occasionally employed.

Extensions

Snooker, in comparison to pool and carom, requires the use of extensions far more frequently in order to allow players to comfortably perform all of the shots. Some kinds of 3/4 split cues allow an extended end to be screwed on instead of the regular last quarter, increasing the range and allowing for longer bridges. Extensions can be fitted into the grip of centrally divided and one-piece snooker cues.

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Carom

Carom is similar to snooker in that only one cue is typically used due to the lack of break or jump shots. However, there are a variety of cues that can be used for various carom games. It is common for carom cues to be shorter than pool cues (about 58 in) and to be 55 in long.

Multi-Part Cues

Each portion of a multipart cue has its own channel levels and time information, making it basically an individual cue. A multipart cue allows you to customize the upfade, downfade, and wait periods for each segment.

One-Piece Cue

One-piece cues are typically used in pubs and pool rooms because they are too heavy to carry on your person. Since most businesses are more concerned with the cues walking away than they are about playing straight, they aren’t usually of very good quality.

Two-Piece Cue

It’s almost always preferable to play with a two-piece cue than a one-piece cue. Some big-box retail stores do sell plastic two-piece cues that are of inferior quality to a hardwood bar cue, although this is rare.

Three-Piece Cue

It’s not uncommon to see pool cues that are made up of three separate pieces. The main joint is usually in the middle of the cue, and a second joint is added in the butt. A short (8-inch) segment that may be swiftly removed for clearance in confined spaces is the most common reason for doing this.

Anatomy of a Pool Cue

The following elements are part of the anatomy of a pool cue:

Body Materials

Wood

Wood-wood joints are found nearly exclusively in carom cues. Here the wooden pin lies on the upper part, which is screwed into a wooden thread on the lower part.

Graphite

In terms of durability, a graphite pool cue is one of the strongest on the market. Playability is not compromised by the shafts’ dent and warp resistance.

Carbon Fiber

Investing in carbon fiber pool cues may be more expensive than investing in other types. However, if you are ready to invest in a long-lasting and high-performance pool cue, the price is well worth it.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass cues are significantly less expensive than wood cues. When choosing a stick, keep in mind that price isn’t the most important consideration, but it might be perfect for beginners or for having one to spare.

Lower Part

Bumper

The bumper is the common name for the end of a pool cue. Rubber or similar material is attached to the end of a piece of wood and can either be permanently or quickly removed.

Butt

Butt refers to the rear portion of the lower section between the bumper and the grip tape. Real inlays or adhesive designs are commonly utilized to decorate this area of the cue based on the forearm’s own design. This component of the cue is distinct from the rest of it in that it is made of wood, often of exceptionally high quality or exotic species, to give it a distinctive appearance.

Inlays

Every cue’s inlay is the most important part of its design. The pricing of the cue is also chosen here. Inlays constructed of high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and artistic value can typically be seen on more expensive serial cues and custom-made cues.

Handle

Between the butt and the forearms is where you’ll find the handle. There are certain models that don’t have a wrap in this location, but it’s more often than not. These “wrapless” types allow you to hold the cue directly by the bottom section of the cue, which is usually made of lacquered wood.

Forearm

The forearm is the lower arm’s front portion, extending from the grip to the wrist joint. In this section, the cue takes on its own personality and character. Real inlays or adhesive designs offer each model a distinctive appearance.

Joint

The cue’s upper and lower halves are joined by the joint. Typically, a lower part pin with a thread (the “pin”) is screwed into the lower end of the upper part’s proper aperture. Metal and plastic are used in the majority of the connecting parts.

Upper Part

Joint

The joint into which the lower component is fastened shuts the upper part at the back end. The fixed joint collar maintains a clean connection between the upper and lower parts and allows for effective impact transfer.

Shaft

Every higher part’s heart is the shaft. When talking about the entire upper portion of a cue, most billiard players merely speak to the shaft. Because this is where the cue’s technology is located, and where the cue’s quality, playing attributes, and pricing are largely determined. The shaft is often constructed entirely of wood.

Conical Taper

Conical taper refers to how the shaft (and possibly the entire cue – imagine “house cues”) gradually taper from fat to slim.

Pro Taper

Pro taper is a regular feature on the majority of less expensive pool cues, and it keeps the thickness of the cue consistent for the first twelve inches of its length.

Ferrule

The ferrule completes the upper section. The ferrule is normally composed of white plastic (previously ivory) and sits on a wooden peg protruding from the front shaft with wooden shafts. The ferrule protects the cue by dampening the vibrations and stresses applied when the cue hits the cue ball.

Cue Tip

The cue tip—the leather piece that terminates each cue at the front— is the last but not least. The tip transmits the cue’s impact to the ball, ensuring a clean touch and preventing the cue from slipping. Pool cue tips typically have a diameter of 11.75 to 13 millimeters (0.4 to 0.5 inches) and come in a variety of hardnesses ranging from super-soft to extra-hard.

Soft or Hard

Miscues are less likely with softer cue tips than harder cue tips. Hard cue tips feel more direct and are more durable, so the player won’t have to re-shape or re-tip the cue as frequently. Softer cue tips appear to be more cushioned, but they will become squashed and harsher over time.

Glue-On vs Screw-On

Screw-on cue tips are sometimes found on simple cues, particularly one-piece house cues at billiard cafés, pubs, and youth centers. These tips are not as good as glue-on tips, but they are significantly less expensive and easier to install and replace.

Best Cue Tip For Beginners

The normal pool cue tip diameter is between 12.75mm and 13mm, which is ideal for beginners. With the regular-sized tip, you can generate lots of spin and draw while still being quite forgiving on straight shots.

When to Replace Cue Tips

It’s time to replace your cue’s leather tip when it’s worn down to the thickness of a dime. You increase your chances of miscuing if you continue to use a cue stick with a worn-down tip.

Playing Variables

The following are the playing variables to consider when playing billiards and which pool cue to use:

Length

Pool cues typically measure around 58 inches in length. These are plentiful for people of average size. There are shorter cues available for smaller adults or youngsters. Taller players (6’3 and up) or those who want to play with a longer space between their front hand and the cue ball may require a longer cue.

Different Cue Sizes For Different Table Sizes

Picking the right pool cue might be difficult. There are various things to think about. Although there are no hard and fast rules for selecting the ideal cue stick size for your pool game, you should do it based on your comfort and ease of play.

For ideal cue sizes for different table sizes, follow the next measurements:

A 48-inch pool cue is ideal for:

• A room of 11.3 x 14.5 feet (7-foot table).
• A room of 11.7 x 15.3 feet (8-foot table).
• A room of 12.2 x 16.3 feet (9-foot table).

A 52-inch pool cue is ideal for:

• A 7-foot table in a room measuring 11.9 x 15.1 feet.
• An 8-foot table in a room of 12.3 x 16 feet.
• An 8.5-foot table in a space of 12.5 x 16.3 feet.
• A 9-foot table in a room of 12.8 x 17 feet.

Weight

Pool cues are usually measured in ounces and range from 18 to 21 ounces, with 19 ounces being the most common weight. If you’re not sure what weight is right for you, try 19 or 20 ounces.

In general, a higher weight is better for beginners, while a lesser weight is better for advanced players. A heavier cue is more stable and controllable, allowing a beginner to achieve more precision.

Balance Point

The balance point of the cue, which is the point at which the cue hangs in equilibrium while held on one finger, is an important consideration when evaluating the balance of a cue. Always, the cue’s center of gravity is located at the bottom of the cue, usually in front of the handle.

Shaft Hardness

In general, a stiffer shaft allows for better control and slightly less ball rotation, whereas a softer shaft has the opposite effect.

Cue Accessories

Cue Extensions

With an extension, the playing cue can have an additional range at the table and play far-away balls easily and without a rest. Two extensions exist: One is put between the upper and lower cues, while other types are fastened or plugged onto the cue’s back.

Joint Protectors

Joint coverings prevent dirt and damage to cue joints during shipping. Some cue brands include joint protection; others sell them separately. Different types of universal joint protectors are available.

Chalk

Billiard players need chalk. Without chalk, you’ll slip when hitting the smooth cue ball and can’t impart the desired action. Chalk on the cue tip between shots encourages crisp contact and prevents sliding.

Tip Tools

A cue’s tip is one of its most significant parts. If it’s not properly installed and in good shape, even a high-quality cue won’t hit a ball. So many tools exist to shape the tip.

Care of the Shaft

Every billiard cue has a shaft. You should always hold it precisely. Dirty cues don’t slide well over the bridge hand, causing shot errors. The shaft can be maintained using different materials. Micro sandpaper and special cleaning cloths are useful instruments for making a shaft attractive and smooth without removing too much cue. Small hand pads or cue papers also work well.

Use a detergent for a more thorough cleaning. Some versions are for different tops. Silkleen makes an all-purpose cleaner. To seal the cleaned cue, use natural cue wax.

Transport

Pool cues need a bag or case for protection and transport. There are entire, 3/4, and centrally divided cues. The case should fit a cue extender, chalk, and a towel. If you want to travel with your cue, make sure the case is stable, as cues cannot be carried on planes.

Cases

The billiard box case is used to transport one cue. Cases are used in snooker and carom.

Tubes

The classic billiard cue case is a tube. Most billiard cues have a shoulder strap and carrying handle for easier transport.

Bags

Different-sized billiard bags are available. Players with extra gear use these. Be it pool cues, games, accessories, or attire.

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How Much Does a Pool Cue Cost?

It all depends on the quality of the goods you’re looking at. If you’ve been in the billiards community for any length of time, you’ve likely seen the high-end professional sticks. Typically these cues have enticing inlays, a wide range of colors, and a showroom gloss to them. The majority of that cost is just cosmetic, making the cue significantly more expensive than it would otherwise be.

It’s up to you, but if you’re just starting off, you may expect to pay somewhere between $100 and $150.

Beginner Cues

All that a beginner needs can be found in these cues. Each one is meticulously crafted from genuine leather with a glued-on leather tip. In order to keep the price cheap, all the cues are simply glued and lacquered. In addition, the woods used aren’t as carefully chosen as in more expensive cues. It’s still not a good idea for newcomers or casual players to spend more money.
Prices vary from $50 to $100.

Advanced Player Cues

Cues in this price category are good options for those who play frequently, have a better idea of what they require, or are just starting out and want to get into more advanced material straight away (there are no more excuses). Inlays and low deflection properties are commonplace on these cues.
Prices vary from $50 to $530.

Professional Cues

The limits of the preceding area are constantly shifting. Above a certain pricing point, the quality of the game doesn’t substantially improve. Custom cues, which can cost a thousand, have more complex inlays and superior woods and are therefore more expensive.
Prica vary from $50 to more than $1000.

FAQ

What Kind of Tip Should I get?

There is a strong consensus that the cue’s tip is the most critical component. The ball’s response to the player’s blow is heavily influenced by the tip’s hardness. It is possible to make a cue ball tip that is as hard as the cue ball itself out of leather or composite material.

In order to better control the cue ball, some players choose to use softer tips. Softer tips have the disadvantage of mushrooming more easily, necessitating more frequent shape and upkeep. Having softer tips means that you’ll have to change them more frequently.

Should Shorter People Get Short Cues?

No scientific method exists for determining the ideal cue length for each individual. However, the most important factors in determining the proper length of a cue are the player’s height, arm length, and personal taste.

Cues up to 58″ in length are ideal for players who stand at 6’1″. Suppose, though, that you’re 7 feet tall and have extraordinarily long arms, or you’re a shorter person with shorter arms. There is a considerable chance that a 58″ cue won’t feel right for you.

A 58″ cue may be too long if you are shorter than 5’8″ in height. Fortunately for you, cues under 58″ in length are simple to come by. While 52 and 48-inch cues are very frequent, shorter cues can also be found.

Shorty cues are always an option if you’ve tried playing with a 48″ cue and still find it too lengthy. Shorty cues exist in a variety of lengths, the shortest of which is 24″ long.

In conclusion, it’s impossible to know which cue length you’ll prefer without first trying out a variety of different cues.

What is a Technology Cue?

Pool cues with technology (also known as performance) reduce deflection in a variety of ways, including lowering the bulk of the pool cue shaft, lowering the diameter of the tip, using specific construction techniques in the cue butt, and using vibration-reducing materials in the wrap.

Are Graphite Cues Better than Wooden Ones?

A player’s finest material is not necessarily the “best” material for the player as a whole. Businesses use wood and graphite/fiberglass as their two primary components. Graphite, on the other hand, does not warp like wood does, making it a viable option for serious players.

Remember that tougher materials give the player more power, but softer materials allow the player better control over the ball. This will also have an effect on how the cue stick feels while you’re playing.

What’s Better, Glue-On or Screw-On Tips?

The majority of billiard cues have tips that are glued on. For serious players, these are an excellent choice because they’re inexpensive and quick to swap out as they get worn out. In addition, they are perfect for well-maintained personal cues.

Screw-on tips can be seen on some lower-priced cues. Because they can be replaced quickly and easily, they’re ideal for bars and clubs.

If you’re purchasing a cue for your own use, we recommend a glue-on tip.

Are Hand-Spliced Cues Always Better Than Machine-Spliced?

Whether you should go with machine or hand-spliced, splicing is a hot topic of discussion. This tells us if the splice was created by hand or by machine and how it was attached. A machine splice isn’t inherently bad if it comes from a well-known brand, especially in today’s cue-making technology. It’s worth spending a little more for certain folks to have their own cues spliced and completed by a master craftsman.

We hope this guide has helped you understand the pool cues world and the benefits of purchasing the right one. Get pool cues that meet your specific needs! At Triangle Billiards we are always available to answer all your questions and help you buy the perfect pool cue for your billiards table. Contact us today and let us help you build the perfect game room.

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