A good cue is vital, regardless of whether you are new to the game or an experienced player. Pool cues are manufactured using a variety of materials to help ensure you get the most out of your game. Additionally, you can choose between a variety of sizes and joint designs to find the perfect pool cue.
The thick plastic ferrule, which holds the cue tip in its place, is one of American pool cue's most distinguishing features. It acts as an absorber and helps reduce vibrations from hitting a shot. Some pool cues include a wrap to absorb moisture or provide additional friction. You can opt for a rubber wrap for hard shots or a soft wrap for less abrasive hits.
Although the shaft of a cue is typically made from wood, modern cues can also be made from exotic materials such as ivory, ebony, or pine. The cue may measure between 57 and 58 inches. Some models include a second joint in each butt. Some of the more advanced designs include multiple sections and butt extensions to help add weight.
Precision machined joints are a hallmark of modern cues. They have been made straight instead of conical, which allows them to retain their shot power. This has helped to keep these pool cues affordable. However, a loose joint can compromise the accuracy and playability of a shot, especially in the case of metal joints.
American pool cues are made mostly from maple which is why they are light. Some brands, however, use blackwood instead, which is easier and more forgiving. A two-piece cue, in which the shaft is separate from the tip, is another option. There are some cues made up of three pieces, in which the main joint is located at the center of the cue.
If you want to play pool with a high-quality cue, you should consider buying a two-piece cue with an invisible wood-to-wood joint. This allows you the option to either add weight to your tip to get more power, or to remove the whole tip to give you a longer stroke.
If you are searching for a pool cue you should decide if you prefer an American-spec cue or a British-spec cue. A British-spec cue is more suited to shooting larger balls. An American-spec cue is more suited to hitting smaller balls. A cue may come with a weight of half an ounce.
A strong and thick ferrule is a must when shopping for a pool table cue. The ferrule needs to be thick enough that it can absorb much of the force you apply when you hit the ball. An inflexible ferrule can cause problems with your accuracy, and you may lose control of the shot.
You should also look at the tip size and ferrule material when buying an American pool cue. Generally, the tips of an American pool cue are larger and harder than those of a British-spec cue. Although these tips have more power, they can lead to more miscues.