What exactly is a taper on a cue? Can certain tapers make your stroke more comfortable and allow flexibility?

Question

I was thinking about purchasing my 2nd cue soon but i was alittle confused on which shaft to go with, it seems like shafts with a longer taper seem like youd have a straighter stroke. Do u have to personally specifiy the length of the taper? What is a good length before the cue starts get broad? I wa sthiking baout buying the red dot shaft off meucci company. Anyone have opinions on this topic?

Answer 1

In this case, less is better. The less the taper, the straighter the stroke. Although, it can't be absolutely straight. You need the taper for strength and stability.Stroke the cue, if your index finger on your bridge hand moves uncomfortably you probably have too much taper. (your choice). Mine has practcally no taper for about 11 to 13 inches.That is the smoothest stroke I can find. Thank you, Johnny

Answer 2

I do not have a preference when it comes to taper on my cues. I find my game is not effected much either way. Your question did make me pull my cues out though for I have never really thought of the matter. After inspection I see and can tell that my cues have very little taper or close to none at all around the stroke zone. I agree with Angelface. It depends on how much weight you want behind your stroke and the weight of your cue. So I prefer 20.5oz. with very little taper on the shaft.

Answer 3

well it all depends on different factors. How tall are you? what is a comfortable weight for you as for cue? What finsihes do you preferr. A nice sleek taper is easier to control, however it usually means that if you want more weight behind your stroke you should probably go witha shorter cue with a steaper taper. However if you like taking long slow strokes a more gradual taper would be the choice. Your best bet is to buy your cue froma store that allows you to try out the cue and go with what you feel comfortable with. The tool to play the game is only a partial part of the game. Extremely skilled players can play with anything. I have seen broom handle matches that would make your head spin.

Answer 4

It's like anything else - personal preference is the biggest factor in choosing a cue.  The size and shape of your hands usually decides what taper you want.  

Try some different ones - weight, balance, taper, different types of wood, composites, etc.

Depending on what game(s) you play, you might need more than one cue - or you might be able to find one that is a good balance for all games.  Some people carry a few just to have them for specific shots - or if nothing else, just to intimidate the other player when they break out their 'special cue'.

I play with a fairly inexpensive (about $200) earl strickland cue that is fantastic.  Unless you are making money playing - then you should probably stay away from the more expensive cues, since you won't really notice a lot of gain.  Obviously cheap cues have problems with warping, cracking, etc - so go a few dollars, but it mostly depends on how serious you are about your game (and if you are good enough for the cue to start making a difference).  Keep a good tip on whatever cue you get.

Answer 5

All cues taper somewhat, so you will have to play with a few before making up your mind.  The main thing that you want to avoid is having a shaft that is too cylindrical.  Having a gradual taper along the length of the shaft promotes stability and greatly reduces warping.  A cylindrical shaft will tend to warp much more readily.  M.D.-BCA Instructor/Referee.

Answer 6

i play with a z2 pretor shaft it has great ball spin and little flex.