Perfect Pool Cue: Weight, Tips & More for Your Best Game

Selecting the perfect pool cue can significantly impact your game performance and overall enjoyment of billiards. Let's explore the essential factors to consider when choosing your ideal cue.

Weight Matters

Pool cues typically range from 18 to 21 ounces. It’s all about what’s comfortable to each player. Most players opt for 19 ounces as it provides an excellent balance between power and control. When starting, consider these weight guidelines:

• Lighter cues (18-19 ounces) offer better control for finesse shots
• Heavier cues (20-21 ounces) provide more power for breaking and long shots.3

One-Piece Cue Sticks

One-piece cue sticks are a great choice for home or institutional use. They are usually very durable and able to be used for both regular play as well as for a break cue. Since they are one piece they are not easily transportable. The weights vary from 18oz, 19oz, 20oz and 21oz. The heavier the better for most player’s break shots. 

Two-Piece Cue Sticks

Two-piece cues are highly recommended for a player that travels in/out of a car. These cue sticks usually offer more options for customization that are specific to a player’s needs. Breaking with two piece cue sticks is not recommended. However, there are two piece break cues designed for just that, breaking. Easier for transportation and storage in a cue carry case.

• Most cue sticks can get shaft replacement if warping occurs
• More convenient tip maintenance and repairs

Tip Selection and Size

The standard pool cue tip diameter ranges from 11mm to 13mm. Consider these tip characteristics:

• Hard tips: More durable but less spin control, good for breaking.
• Soft tips: Better spin control but wear faster
• Medium tips: Ideal balance for beginners and advanced players

Materials and Construction

Quality materials ensure durability and performance:

• Shaft (upper part of the cue stick): Maple is the most common choice for its optimal mix of flexibility and strength. Carbon Fiber is gaining in popularity because of its accuracy, durability and ease of maintenance.
• Wrap: A linen, nylon, textured vinyl or leather wrap can provide a grip on the butt end of the cue which some players prefer over a smooth surface.
• Ferrule: Reinforces the tip and comes in various materials like brass, steel, or plastic

Budget Considerations

Set a realistic budget based on your commitment level:

• Entry-level: $100-$200 
• Mid-range: $200-$500 
• Higher End $500. + 

Testing and Selection

Before making your purchase:

• Test different cues to find what feels comfortable
• Check for straightness by rolling the cue on a flat surface
• Consider the balance point and how it feels in your hands
• Everyone is different so choose what feels good to you.

Remember that consistency is key in developing your game, so choose a cue that you'll be comfortable using for an extended period.

Please Shop Local / Don’t Ship

Purchasing a cue should be done in store and not on the internet. 

Online shopping does not allow you to test the cue. Shopping in our store allows just that. At Encore Billiards a pool table is here for you to test different manufacturers and styles of cues to see what feels right for you.

 We are constantly ordering new inventory, so special orders are always welcome. 

Since the mid 1970’s we have been here to guide you and provide you with the right information so you can make an educated decision on what cue stick would be the right choice for you.