Tips on getting a cue stick ?

Question

getting my own table, want a good cue stick that i can eventually pass on to my son one day. So what are some good cue sticks? what should i look for in a cue stick as far as grip, wood make, etc? I don't need or want a flashy looking stick, just something reliable and that will last a while. At the same time, i am not a professional and so don't need a really expensive stick.

Answer 1

After you research various pool cues, I HIGHLY advise that you try the cue out BEFORE you purchase it. No matter the brand, the most important factor is that the pool cue FEELS good, "right", and comfortable for YOU! If you do buy a pool cue before you try it out, be sure that you get a 100% money back guarantee with your purchase! I have NEVER purchased a cue that I didn't try out first or compare with other cues. It's so important that you FEEL a few cues. You WILL know what cue and weight is right for you when you feel, stroke and compare different weights and brands.(The only cues I have that I didn't try out first, were pool awards).

Average price for a decent cue: 75.00 on up.

Most cue manufacturers make affordable and good cues in various weights. For a decent cue in your price rage, I suggest looking at Dufferin, McDermott, Cuetec, Mali, and Scorpion pool cues (not necessarily in that order). They are well-made and very affordable. You're not going to pay more for a 20 oz. cue than you would for a 21 oz. or even an 18 oz cue. Most pool cue makers have a bottom of the line (doesn't mean it's garbage) all the way up to a "top of the line" cue. The variances usually have to do with whether each cue is handmade or machine made. Also they vary in price for the detail involved (intricate inlays, precious stones, hand designed artwork, etc.). A pretty cue does NOT make it a better cue. If you're looking for a good solid cue, just stay away from the "artsy" cues and buy a well-made cue that has a good ferrule (the white piece between the tip and the shaft) and a good 'joint' (the s***w that joins the butt to the shaft) and is made of solid maple or of a good hard wood. You can always buy your own tips (hard leather). I also suggest a pool cue with an Irish Linen wrap (non-laquered ---but it's not the worst thing either) around the butt of the cue. Do NOT settle for cotton or silky thread wraps! For under $150.00 you WILL find a quality pool cue. Also remember that if you can't break with it, it's NOT worth buying! Your pool cue will last you a lifetime, if you take good care of it. Don't lean/balance it against any surface that the pool cue can fall to the ground. If you're not holding your cue in your hand, lay it on the pool table ---never balance it on end, against any table.

http://billiardwarehouse.com/cues/duffer... (click on the "CHOOSE CUE MAKER" tab to see a variety of brand name cues)

Call toll free: 1-888-809-7665 <--The Billiard Warehouse. They carry a wide variety of pool cues.

NOTE: I would NOT tell them that you're looking to buy your "first cue". Tell them that you are looking to purchase a well-made, SOLID, and affordable cue without any fancy inlays, that will last you a lifetime and that you can break with. Make sure it has an IRISH LINEN WRAP that is non-laminated (though it's not a big concern if the wrap is laquered). Ask the cue dealer if he will make you a deal on a decent case for your pool cue too. (Never leave your cue out in your car, even if it is in its case). Your cue WILL last forever with proper and good care.

Take your time with your search.

Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments you may have.

All the best -

LAG

Answer 2

Try out a McDermott cue...they range in price from $200 up and they are all good.  You need to hold it and feel the weight of it, etc. to know if it is the right cue for you.  Typically the more expensive ones are because of the fancy inlays which you don't need.   Be sure to use another cue to break and not your regular cue and the tip will last longer.