Beginners Guide to Buying a Cue Stick

Many players who have just started playing pool who find themselves spending more and more time around the pool table may eventually have the urge to purchase their very own cue stick.  Owning your own cue stick generally saves you the hassle of having to use whatever is available at the particular place that you are playing and allows you to find a stick that will suit you.

The thought of buying a cue stick can sound very daunting at first, especially if you are a beginner. There are different factors you want to look for when buying a cue stick that matches you, some factors are more important than others.

Tip

It may be small but it’s the most important part of the cue! You will first want to be aware of the type of tip that you are buying, as there are various types of tips ranging from soft to hard.  Purchase a tip that you feel most comfortable and natural with. If you are an inexperienced player, you may want to consider buying a stick with a medium to medium-soft tip.

Some cue tips can also be replaced easier than others. If you intend to use your cue extensively, you may want to look at the option on whether it can be replaced.

Length

Consider also the length of the cue stick in its entirety.  The average length for cue sticks is fifty eight inches, but there is no problem asking for a longer or shorter cue stick according to your particular body type or preference.

Shaft

The next factor that you will want to consider is the shaft of the cue, or the side that hits the cue ball.  Shafts are typically made from fiberglass, graphite, or a wide variety of woods.  Despite what you end up choosing, the most important thing is that it feels natural. A poor quality shaft will deteriorate the entire cue and unlike the tip (which can usually be replaced), the shaft cannot be replaced.

Wrap

The wrap is also going to be something that you will want to consider looking at.  The wrap is essential in preventing your hand from slipping and there are many different types of wraps that you can choose from, it is up to your personal preference.

When purchasing a shaft also keep in mind that you will want to find a shaft that has a pro-taper.  This means the shaft starts to taper at a point farther from the tip instead of immediately.  This will help you in transitioning from the shape of house cues, which you have been using at your local pool table, to your own cue.

Joint

Finally, consider the joint of your new cue stick.  Two piece cue sticks screw together at the joint, which can be made from metal, wood, or plastic.  Two piece cues are for the most part inexpensive and are an improvement from one piece cues. Many pros will swear by one piece cue sticks as they are manufactured from one piece of timber and avoid a joint altogether. If you plan on travelling with your cue then you will usually want to buy a two piece cue as they will transport in a smaller case.

Final Thoughts

Taking all of these factors into account, a lot comes down to what you feel most comfortable with. The Cue tip, length, shaft and wrap are all important parts of a cue that you will want to look into. 

If you keep your cue properly maintained, it should last for many years.

Once you have made a purchase, you’ll be able to approach the pool table with confidence with your brand new cue stick.