A good cue will be a lifesaver, no matter how new you are to pool. To ensure that you get the best out of your pool cue, there are many materials available. Additionally, you can choose between a variety of sizes and joint designs to find the perfect pool cue.
One of the most striking features of an American poolcue is its thick plastic ferrule. This holds the cue tips in place. It acts as an absorber and helps reduce vibrations from hitting a shot. Many pool cues are equipped with a wrap to absorb moisture, provide friction, and more. A rubber wrap can be used for very hard shots while a soft wrap can be used for gentler hits.
The shaft of the cue usually is made from wood. However, modern cues are made of exotic materials such as ivory and pine. The cue may measure between 57 and 58 inches. Some models include a second joint in each butt. Advanced designs may include multiple sections or butt extensions, which can help increase weight.
Precision machined joints are a hallmark of modern cues. They are more powerful because they have been straightened than conical. This has allowed these pool cues to be kept at a low price. However, loose joints can cause errors in shots, especially if they are made of steel.
American pool cues consist mainly of maple, which makes them quite light. Some brands use blackwood, which can be more forgiving and is also softer. A cue can be bought in a two-piece design where the shaft or tip is separated. There are some cues made up of three pieces, in which the main joint is located at the center of the cue.
You should buy a two-piece cue that has an invisible wood-to–wood joint if you want to play pool. This allows you add weight to the tip for greater power or to remove all of it for a shorter stroke.
You must decide whether you want an American-spec or British-spec pool cue when you're looking for one. A British-spec cue can shoot larger balls. An American-spec cue is more suited to hitting smaller balls. A cue may come with a weight of half an ounce.
If you're looking for a pool cue to play with, make sure it has a ferrule which is strong and thick. The ferrule must be strong enough to withstand a lot of force from the ball. Having a loose ferrule can affect your accuracy and cause you to lose control of the shot.
Other factors to look for in an American pool cue are the size of the tips and the type of material used to make the ferrule. The tips of an American pool cue tend to be larger and more difficult than those of a British-spec one. These tips are larger and can result in more miscues.