A good cue, whether you're new or an old pro at the game, is the most important thing you need. You can get the most from your game with pool cues made of a variety materials. Additionally, you can choose between a variety of sizes and joint designs to find the perfect pool cue.
A thick plastic ferrule holds the cue tip securely in an American pool cue. It is easily one of the most prominent features. It acts as a shock absorber to help reduce vibrations when you hit a shot. Some pool cues include a wrap to absorb moisture or provide additional friction. You have two options: a rubber wrap is for harder shots, or a soft wrap is for more gentle hits.
The shaft of a cue's cue is normally made of wood. Modern cues can however be made out of exotic materials like ivory, pine, and ebony. The cue may measure between 57 and 58 inches. Some models include a second joint in each butt. The more complex designs have multiple sections and can be extended to add weight.
Most modern cues have joints that are precision machined. They have been made straight instead of conical, which allows them to retain their shot power. This has allowed these pool cues to be kept at a low price. However, a loose joint can affect the accuracy of a shot, especially if the joint is made of metal.
Most American pool cues are constructed from maple, which makes them relatively light. Some brands however use blackwood which is lighter and more flexible. Another option is to buy a cue that is a two-piece design, where the shaft and tip are separated. Some cues are three-piece, with the main joint located in the middle.
A two-piece cue is the best option if you are looking to play pool with a quality cue. This allows you to increase the power of the tip or to remove the entire tip to make a shorter or longer stroke.
You need to choose whether you want an American-spec and a British-spec pool ue. A British-spec cue is more suited to shooting larger balls. American-spec cues tend to hit smaller balls. You might also be able find cues that have a half-ounce weight.
You should choose a pool cue with a strong ferrule when you're shopping. The ferrule should be thick to absorb force when hitting the ball. Having a loose ferrule can affect your accuracy and cause you to lose control of the shot.
Also, be sure to check the dimensions of the tips and the ferrule. The tips of an American poolcue are generally more powerful and harder than those in a British-spec cue. These larger tips can increase your power but also lead to more miscues.