Billiard Cue Sticks

 

Billiard and Pool cue sticks are one of the most important accessories of the game. Billiard and pool cues are used to hit the billiard balls which is why it is important that the cues are tough and durable. Since these cues often slide through your hands, it is important that the finishes and smoothness are of the highest quality to avoid injuries during the game.

Not all billiard and pool cues are created equal. There are cues that can be bought at cheap prices but have a lesser quality compared to the more expensive cues that are usually made of good quality workmanship. Buying cues will depend on your budget and how often you use the cues. If you only use the cues occasionally, then you may have the option to buy cheaper ones that do not necessarily sacrifice the quality of the cues. If you intend to use it often, you may have to buy cues that are durable but would likely cost you a little more.

The difference between a POOL CUE and SNOOKER CUE :

Pool cues :

Between 57" - 58" long and are 1 or 2 piece.  Tips range from 11mm to 14 mm.  Shafts are almost always maple.

Butts are often wrapped with linen string (or a blend) or leather strips that makes the cue less slippery by absorbing hand sweat and oils.  Some manufacturers coat the linen with polyurethane which defeats its purpose, but keeps the cue nice looking.

The diversity of cue designs is staggering.  All cues over $250 are of excellent quality.

Snooker cues :

Can be 1, 2, 3, or 4 piece.  1 and 2 piece cues are very similar to pool cues and some snooker players use pool cues.  A 3 or 4 piece cue has an extender which can be attached for longer shots due to the larger table sizes and avoiding use of the spider (bridge).  Lengths are between 57" & 63" without the extensions.  Shafts are usually made of ash.

Snooker cues have smaller tips between 9.0 and 11mm.  The accuracy of a smaller tip on a smaller (than pool) ball is necessary.  The shafts are thinner.

Snooker cues do not have the linen wrap pool cues have.  They also have one flat face on butt to help the player orientate the stick for play.

Left  :  14mm Pool Cue with ivorine ferrule

Right  :  10mm Snooker Cue with brass ferrule