Cue selection?

Question

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http://www.cheapcues.com/Joss_pool_cues.asp

whats the difference between the top cue for $651 and bottom cue for $192. i think they are all the same, except for the better inlaid ect. fancy stuff but shooting wise do they have the same wood, joint, tip / features

Answer 1

Yeah, both are going to be a good quality cue based on the name brand of the cue and quality of the wood used.  The difference in price is due to the amount of extra inlays and work that gos into the cue.  More materials and labor = higher price.  Joss is a quality name in pool though if you are looking into buying one of those cues.  Good luck, and keep racken em up!

Answer 2

i have been shooting for 7 years and have a nice collection of cues, but could never convince myself to spend more than $200 on any one cue.

I have a mcdermott, viking, 5280, and a lucasi...along with some cheaper brands that I cant recall what they were called.

for my money you can get a nice quality  cue for any of the above from 100-200 bucks, but I prefer my lucasi out of all of them, for players that are thinking about getting serious I recommend lucasi but again thats just me.

as for Joss, I have never heard anyone say they are better or worse than any other brands in that price range...as for high end Joss cues, I think you would be better off getting a Meucci for $500 + bucks.

Answer 3

I would think they play the same. Either way once you play with the same cue all the time, whether it's a cheapie or not your game definately improves.

Answer 4

There are a lot of factors that influence the price of a cue, The main one is the type of wood used, the more exotic hardwoods will have a different feel to them versus domestic woods. Also the type of joint used is very important, i use a wood to wood joint for my breaking cue, while i like the feel of the quick release for my shooter, i paid 140 for my breaking cue, and about 550 for my shooter. also my breaking cue has a machine wrap, while my shooter is hand rolled. it doesn't seem like it would make a big difference but it really has a much different feel to it. the machine roll doesn't feel as tightly wound. And the ferrel on a higher end cue will generally be made of a different polymer than a more production model. Inlays are nice to look at, but in this day and age if you don't buy a custom they are all machined with a laser, they will change the balance point though and some will feel more playable than others.

Answer 5

Hit with a few different brands and see what one you like the feel of the most. Then open your pocket book and choose accordingly! Good luck and best wishes

Answer 6

Get the right size and the comfort look.

Answer 7

Most of the playing characteristics of a cue are found in the shaft so when you're looking at two different models of the same make, you're looking at identical cues at least, as far as how they play.

Inlays are 100% asthetic. They will not help you make balls or improve the hit.  Cue ornamentation is really limited to just pool.  In fact, most snooker and billiard players use very simple looking cues.

The only two things I see making any sort of a difference is the type of joint used (although Joss usually uses the same metal joint) and ferrel.  I believe Joss uses the same ferrel plastic material on all their cues though you will find some cue-makers that give you a choice between plastic and ivory which will also change the hit.

If it's your first cue, go with the cheaper model.  There's a great chance once you own one, you'll begin to develop a preference and possibly go with something else (although Joss is a great brand).  If you DO decide to switch it up, you'll be rest assured knowing you didn't spend an arm & a leg for the first one.