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. You can also choose from many sizes and styles of joints to find the right pool cue.
One of the most noticeable features of an American pool cue is the thick plastic ferrule that holds the cue tip in place. It serves as a shock absorber, helping to reduce vibrations during shots. A lot of pool cues have a wrap that absorbs moisture and provides extra friction. For harder hits, you can choose a rubber wrap or a soft wrap.
The shaft of the cue is usually made of wood, although modern cues can be made of exotic materials like ebony, ivory, and even 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.
Most modern cues have joints that are precision machined. They are made straighter than conical to preserve their shot power. This feature has helped to keep the cost of these pool cues down. However, a loose joint can affect the accuracy of a shot, especially if the joint is made of metal.
American pool cues have a lot of maple construction, making them very light. Some brands however use blackwood which is lighter and more flexible. A two-piece cue, in which the shaft is separate from the tip, is another option. You can also find three-piece cues where the main joint is in the middle.
It is a good idea to buy a 2-piece cue with an invisble wood-to -wood joint, if you wish 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 is more suited to shooting larger balls. American-spec cues can hit smaller balls better. A cue may come with a weight of half an ounce.
You want a pool cue that has a thick ferrule. The ferrule should be thick enough to absorb a lot of force when you hit the ball. The ferrule should not be too loose as it can affect your accuracy.
Also, be sure to check the dimensions of the tips and the ferrule. The tips of an American pool cue tend to be larger and more difficult than those of a British-spec one. Although these tips have more power, they can lead to more miscues.