A good cue will be a lifesaver, no matter how new you are to pool. Pool cues are manufactured using a variety of materials to help ensure you get the most out of your game. There are many sizes and types of joint options to choose from so you can find the perfect pool utensil.
The thick, plastic ferrule that holds the tip of an American pool cue in place is one of the most distinctive features. It acts as a shock absorber to reduce vibrations after you hit 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.
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. Many advanced designs feature multiple sections and extensions to the butt.
The majority of modern cues are precision machined. They have been made straight instead of conical, which allows them to retain their shot power. This feature has helped to lower the price of pool cues. However, a loose joint can compromise the accuracy and playability of a shot, especially in the case of metal joints.
American pool cues consist mainly of maple, which makes them quite light. However, some brands use blackwood, which is more forgiving and 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.
A two-piece cue is the best option if you are looking to play pool with a quality cue. This allows you the option to either add weight to your tip to get more power, or to remove the whole tip to give you a longer 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. An American-spec cue is more suited to hitting smaller balls. You may also be able to find cues that come with a half-ounce weight.
You should choose a pool cue with a strong ferrule when you're shopping. You should have enough ferrule thickness to absorb the force of hitting the ball. The ferrule should not be too loose as it can affect your accuracy.
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 on an American pool cue will be more hard and larger than those made from British-spec material. These oversized tips can give you more power, but can also result in more miscues.