Helpful Tips in Choosing the Right Pool Cue
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Billiards is not as simple as grabbing a cue off the rack. As a beginner, you do not have a choice but to select from the available cues where you usually play pool. However, if you want to improve your skills or aspire to become a professional one day, you must have your own pool cue.
Trying out different cue sticks and assessing various features like length, weight, and diameter of the tips will help you understand the type of cue stick that complements your style and performance. When shopping for a pool cue, here are some things to keep in mind.
Identify the basic pool cue components
A pool stick comprises two essential components: the butt and the shaft. The butt refers to the base or larger end of the cue, while the tapered end is the shaft. The shaft contains the cue tip, and the ferrule is usually replaced to avoid wear and tear that can affect your play. In addition, the best pool cues are made from the finest materials, including straight-grained hard rock maple wood. Novice players can start with inexpensive and quality-engineered models made from ash wood.
Is it for recreational or professional use?
There are different opinions about which pool cue configuration is better: a one-piece cue or a two-piece cue. The location where you plan to play billiards will largely impact your buying decision. If you mainly practice at home, a one-piece cue might be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you plan to play outside, a two-piece cue is easier to transport and less likely to get damaged when traveling long distances. It is best to try both configurations and decide which one offers you the most convenience, comfort, and boost in performance.
Choose between wood or fiberglass cue
Is wood the best material for a pool stick? While pool sticks made from graphite or fiberglass are more sturdy in that they are less likely to suffer from distortion, wood will offer you more control and power over your movements. On the other hand, pool cues made from softer materials ensure more control over the ball. Your playing style will dictate which type of stick perfectly matches your needs.
Determine the ideal weight for you
Most billiard cues weigh between 18 and 21 ounces. However, these are not meant for professional play. Professionals typically use pool sticks that weigh between 25 and 27 ounces. Nonetheless, the weight of the pool stick should not be based on your physical capabilities. Professional players typically choose to play with lighter sticks, but at the end of the day, your purchase should be based on what feels most comfortable and natural to you.
Final thoughts
If you are still unsure about the type of pool stick you should purchase, it may be best to test out different pool cues in your billiard hall. Decide on which type of cue stick will enhance your style and performance. Also, set a budget and perform thorough research first. This will ensure that you find the one that suits you best.
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