A good cue is vital, regardless of whether you are new to the game or an experienced player. You can get the most from your game with pool cues made of a variety materials. In addition, you can choose from a wide range of sizes and joint styles to find the perfect pool cue for you.
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 help reduce vibrations when you hit a shot. To absorb moisture and increase friction, many pool cues come with a wrap. You can opt for a rubber wrap for hard shots or a soft wrap for less abrasive 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 length of the cue can be anywhere from 57 to 58 inches, with some models having a second joint in the butt. Some of the more advanced designs include multiple sections and butt extensions to help add weight.
The majority of modern cues are precision machined. They are made straighter than conical to preserve their shot power. This has helped to keep these pool cues affordable. However, loose joints can cause errors in shots, especially if they are made of steel.
American pool cues are made mostly from maple which is why they are light. Some brands use blackwood, which can be more forgiving and is also softer. Another option is to buy a cue that is a two-piece design, where the shaft and tip are separated. There are also three-piece cues that have the main joint in the middle.
Two-piece cues with invisible wood-to-wood joints are a great option for pool players. This allows you add weight to the tip for greater power or to remove all of it for a shorter stroke.
It is important to choose whether you are interested in an American or British-spec pool cue. A British-spec cue can shoot larger balls. American-spec cues tend to hit smaller balls. You might also find cues with a half-ounce of weight.
When you are shopping for a pool cue, you should look for one that has a ferrule that is thick and strong. The ferrule should be thick enough to absorb a lot of force when you hit the ball. A loose ferrule can reduce your accuracy and make it difficult to control the shot.
The size of the tips as well as the ferrule's material are important factors to look out for in an American poolcue. Generally, the tips of an American pool cue are larger and harder than those of a British-spec cue. These tips can be more powerful, but they can also cause more miscues.