Whether you are new to the game of pool or you have been playing for years, one of the most important items you need is a good cue. Pool cues are manufactured using a variety of materials to help ensure you get the most out of your game. To make sure you find the right pool cue, you have many options.
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 a shock absorber to reduce vibrations after you hit a shot. A lot of pool cues have a wrap that absorbs moisture and provides extra friction. You can either choose a rubber wrap to absorb hard hits or a more gentle wrap to reduce abrasiveness.
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 can measure anywhere from 57-58 inches in length, some models even have a second joint in its butt. Some of the more advanced designs include multiple sections and butt extensions to help add weight.
Modern cues feature precision-machined joints. They are more powerful because they have been straightened than conical. This has allowed these pool cues to be kept at a low price. But, loose joints can impact the accuracy of shots, especially when they are made of metal.
Most American pool cues are constructed from maple, which makes them relatively light. Some brands use blackwood, which can be more forgiving and is also softer. You can also choose a cue made of two pieces, which means that the shaft and tip are separate. 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 to increase the power of the tip or to remove the entire tip to make a shorter or longer stroke.
When you are looking for a pool cue, you need to decide if you are interested in an American-spec or British-spec cue. A British-spec pool cue is better at shooting larger balls. American-spec cues are better suited for hitting smaller balls. There may be cues available with a half ounce weight.
You want a pool cue that has a thick ferrule. 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.
Also, be sure to check the dimensions of the tips and the ferrule. Generally, the tips of an American pool cue are larger and harder than those of a British-spec cue. These larger tips can increase your power but also lead to more miscues.