Consider the material when choosing a cue tip. The material is either soft, medium, or hard. It also has an effect on how the cue feels, which may make a firm shot feel better. It also impacts the squirt or sideways tip flexibility. The shaft flex and endmass are reduced when the tip is soft.
Hard
A hard tip is preferred by professional and higher-level gamers. It requires less maintenance than a soft tip and maintains its shape longer. However, it does not absorb the cue ball's energy as well as a soft tip.
Soft
A soft cue tip is a great option for players who want a cueball that is more flexible. These tips are typically made from leather and available in a variety different hardness levels. These tips can be made from a variety of materials, including single-piece or laminated leather. Other materials that are common include bakelite or phenolic.
Medium
The Kamui range of Cue Tips are made of premium pigskin and feature a ten-layer construction. This ensures maximum humidity and porosity resistance. They have excellent chalk retention which allows for improved tip-grip, and prevents miscuing. These tips last for many years and come in packs of ten.
Phenolic
Your break shot can be boosted by adding a phenolic tip to your pool cue. The material has a smoother contact surface, and it is more responsive to pressure. These properties make the phenolic tip an attractive option for players looking to increase their power.
Leather
The most common tip type is the leather cue. Leather tips, unlike synthetic ones that are made from plastic or cork offer superior control and durability. Although leather tips are preferred, synthetic tips may be more suitable for home use.
Splice
If you're looking to buy a new poolcue, there are many options. Some people prefer to hand splice their tips. This method is more expensive and requires more skill. You can purchase a cue with a hand splice if you want to play top-quality.
Size
The shaft should be the same size as your tip. This will enable you to hit the ball with more accuracy and less vibration. A smaller tip also produces less squirt, which can help you feel the ball better.
Materials
It is important that you consider the angle and spin of your ball when choosing materials to make a cue tip. A slightly rounded tip allows the player to impart spin to the ball. A rounded tip will be rounder in shape than a dime. A rounded tip is usually thicker that a nickel.