What is a Good Size for a Billiard Cue?

What is a Good Size for a Billiard Cue?

A billiard cue is an essential piece of pool, snooker, and carom billiards equipment. Normally tapered, cue sticks are between 57 and 59 inches long and weigh anywhere from sixteen to twenty-one ounces. While the average weight for a cue is about 19 ounces, professionals tend to gravitate toward an average of nineteen ounces. But what is a good size for a billiard cue?

The proper size of a billiard cue depends on the type of game you are playing. In the eight-ball variant, you are aiming to pocket the eight ball. In the nine-ball version, you need to pocket the nine ball. If the tip is too hard, it will not grip the cue ball well. Also, keep in mind that a hard cue tip can lead to off-center hits and miscues. To test a cue's tip length, roll it flat on a table, cushion, or other flat surface. Check that it is comfortable.

The shaft of the cue is usually 0.4 to 0.55 inches (11 to 15 mm) wide, and tapers to a thin ferrule of similar size and hardness. Some billiard cues use a glue-on tip, which is easy to replace when it becomes worn out. These cues tend to give a better performance to serious players. However, some cheaper cues feature screw-on tips, which are more convenient to replace and are better suited for communal cues at a pub.

The shaft of the billiard cue of the present invention includes a hollow bore that extends a predetermined distance from the first end of the shaft. This reduces the material weight at the tip end of the shaft, which prevents deflection of the ball. The shaft of a billiard cue of this invention is made from a material that has a modulus of elasticity of at least four and a half times that of a conventional solid hard maple shaft.

Another important piece to protect is the joint. A cue's joint is vulnerable to damage, and a joint protector is an excellent way to protect the joints. Other pieces to watch out for are the ferrule and tips. Both wear out over time, and it is a good idea to invest in an extra set of ferrules to replace them when they become worn. The material of the shaft and tips also matters.

A billiard cue's price depends on its quality. High-quality professional sticks display mouth-watering inlays, and have a showroom-like shine. Obviously, these expensive cues are not for every player. But if you're looking for a high-quality entry-level cue, it's best to go for a $100-$150 model. It's important to understand the value of a cue before purchasing one.

The mass of a cue's tip end reduces its deflection. In other words, a short bridge will give you more power, while a long one will allow you to strike the ball farther from the center. A longer bridge will help you make a curve shot, while hitting the ball on the side will make it curve left. A curve shot will require practice, but the result will be worth the effort.

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