ARTICLES- HOME- Billiard Pool Cues

How to choose a pool cue for you. Quality tips on weight, feel, construction and cost of new and used pool sticks. Look on ebay & online auctions for some great deals!

How to Choose a Pool Cue for You
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Robert_Severson]Robert Severson

You may be able to play billiards well, but are you getting consistently better? Playing in halls with the house sticks won’t cut it. Having quality and consistent pool gear for your play is one of the best ways to improve your game. When looking for a billiards cue, there are a number of things that you want to check for.

1-Piece or 2-Piece?

One piece pool cues usually offer more quality for the cost, but are hard to travel with. If you’re only playing at home, then a one-piece can work for you.

A two-piece stick has a screw joint in the middle that allows it to break down into two parts, making it easier to transport. Quality cue sticks will fit together solid and seamlessly and have a strong metal joint. Always get a solid case for traveling.

Construction

Wood – If you buy a wood cue, always buy one made of a hardwood. Many quality hardwood cues are made of Maple.

Fiberglass/Graphite – Usually has a wood core and less likely to warp. These cues can get costly.

Weight and Feel

The weight and feel can make a big difference in your game. Most cue sticks are at or around 57” in length. And where is the weight balance? Some are heavier in the back-end than others. Typically, sticks from the same brand will have a similar feel to each other during play. A good strategy can be to find the brand that works for you and stick with it.

More Tips

Does the tip feel cushy and soft?

How is the grip of the stick? There are woven grips, wood trips, smooth, and more. See which fits best for your hand.

Get a good feel for how it plays. Try various sizes, brands, and weights.

When checking a cue, don’t concentrate on playing - concentrate on the feel of making hard and soft shots.

Make it a good long-term investment - be prepared to spend at least $80 for a quality personal cue stick.

If you’re looking for something ornate, make sure it is functional for you first.

The author recommends [http://www.poolcues.com]Poolcues.com for your [http://www.poolcues.com]billiards cue or cue cases. Visit the website for more information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Seversonhttp://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Choose-a-Pool-Cue-for-You&id=354865

Billiard Cues - Do You Own a Custom Pool Cue?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ted_Mauro]Ted Mauro

Billiard cues can be a challenging subject when it comes to deciding which one to buy. Your pool cue is a big part of your game.

It drives me nuts when I forget my cue on pool league night (rarely) and have to shoot with one of my team mates cues. Don't get me wrong they all have nice cues. Shooting with billiard cues other than your own can affect your game.

I currently shoot with a Joss East. Before that I was using A KC Custom Cue which was modified by our local cue maker. I now use the KC as a break cue. I shot with a Meucci for about 17 years before that. My Meucci is now only for looks. (for a while)

Two of my team mates have predator cues or at least they have a predator shaft on their pool cues. These cues make the ball spin much different than the cues I normally play with. When trying to step up cold and shoot with one of these my cue ball control is a little unpredictable.

I know these cues work well when you are used to them. I can say this because my team mates who own them run racks on a regular basis. This is the same as me running many racks with my own cue. I am sure that if I bought a predator and practiced with it for several hours, I would run out quite a bit with it as well.

When shopping for billiard cues, you will find that there are literally hundreds of brands and styles to choose from. I would recommend getting out where you can hit some balls with different cues and find one that plays best for you.

Your local pool hall could be a good place to start. Find players who have their own cues and ask how they like them. I'll bet if you explain that you are looking for a cue, most players will let you take a few shots with theirs and give you their opinions.

Which is better new or used?

This depends on the condition of the used cue. If a cue is cared for and not banged around and scratched up, used will do fine.

I have owned many cues both new and used. Sometimes you can find some great deals on used cues. I have found some killer deals in pawn shops, eBay and other auctions.

When buying a used cue, inspect it for scratches and nicks in the wood and if possible roll it on a table and make sure it is straight. (warped cues will wobble when rolled on table) You can't check for a wobble on eBay but if you buy from a reputable seller with a good feed back score you should be safe.

I hope this helps you out when choosing your next billiard cue. Keep an eye out for future pool cue articles.

To Your Run Out Success,

Ted Mauro has been playing pool and billiards for over 25 years. You can join in on the daily discussions in Ted's blog with new articles about billiards every day. http://www.poolbilliardssupplies.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ted_Maurohttp://EzineArticles.com/?Billiard-Cues---Do-You-Own-a-Custom-Pool-Cue?&id=954230

Pool And Billiard Supplies - Tips For Finding The Best Available
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_Hartwell]Michael Hartwell

Pool and billiard supplies unfortunately today have the reputation of being very expensive, and therefore only for the wealthy. In reality, that is no the case. Whether you have a lot of money or just a little to spend on billiards supplies, you can find some very high quality equipment without breaking the bank. Here are some important tips to help you find the top equipment now.

First of all, the most important piece of equipment to purchase for billiards is pretty obvious-the table. Very simply, regardless of how good the rest of your equipment might be, without having the right table your billiards room will never be complete.

To find the best one, there are many ways you could go about this. Remember this equipment is sold in retail stores like K-Mart, sporting goods stores, etc. Also, there are many websites on the net that retail these supplies, and again, finding them really isn't very difficult. In fact, you can usually buy a table for cheaper from some of these websites than you ever could off the internet.

Also, you might consider browsing through magazines and see what they offer as well. Remember, multiple companies advertise in these magazines, and therefore you will be able to find the right table without much difficulty. In addition, you can generally find cue sticks along with their repair kits, billiard racks, and many other equipment associated with the game of pool.

Here are some quick guidelines to keep in mind when you go out and purchase your pool and billiard supplies. First of all, be absolutely certain that the owner takes off the felt so that you can do a thorough examination of the table top.

Without doing this, if you find a cracked slate after purchasing, this can be quite expensive to repair. Therefore, make sure you take this important step; while a bit of a hassle, you definitely do not want to have to pay for this on top of the table expense.

Of course, make sure you take into consideration how you will receive the table before buying. For example, don't ever buy without finding a reliable table mover who can take the table apart, get it to your house, and rebuild it there. Without doing this, you might end up with cracks in the table, again adding more expenses to your purchase.

Finally, try checking on eBay to find your billiards supplies; very likely, you will find all the supplies you could ever need on eBay and save a pile of money in the process. Just remember to keep the above information in mind when doing so, and you should be good to go. Hopefully this information will help you to find the top pool and billiard supplies quickly and hassle free.

If you want more info on [http://www.poolandpokertips.com/billiardssupplies.htm]billiards
supplies and how to find them, visit
poolandpokertips.com. For tips on finding the best [http://www.poolandpokertips.com/pooltablesforsale.htm]pool tables for
sale and much more. this is your source.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Hartwellhttp://EzineArticles.com/?Pool-And-Billiard-Supplies---Tips-For-Finding-The-Best-Available&id=890711

Improve Your Pool Game Today With The Right Cue!
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Darren_Scott]Darren Scott

As pool players, we're always looking for ways to improve out game, and if you're like me, you probably already know that one of the most important things you can do to improve, is invest in your own pool cue.

If you've thought about doing this though, you may have found that there's a lot more to it than just buying a pretty-looking stick - there's a whole science to it!

So what I want to go through in this article now, are some of the things you'll need to consider before deciding which cue is right for you. So let's begin now.

By far the most important aspects you need to consider are the tip and shaft.

With the tip, the softer it is the more you can feel through the shot, the harder the tip the more it retains it's shape - most professionals use a hard tip. As far as tip size goes, you'll probably be fine with the standard 13mm, but it's really a matter of personal preference - some pro's use a smaller tip.

The next thing you want to consider is: straight, weight, balance & length. The heavier a cue, say 20-21 ounce, the easier it is for beginners to use, but it is also more likely to slip and add unwanted side-spin. Professionals stick to the lighter cues because there's a lot more control, but you'll need to be much more skilled to use them.

Material is also a very important consideration, traditionally cues have been made with wood, but these days you also have aluminum and graphite cues. While these newer materials offer a lot more power for your shots, the wood cues allow you to really feel through your shots - bottom line: the best cues are made from wood.

Now when it comes to cost, you can go from $30 for a good quality plain cue all the way up to $150'000 (and if you like [http://www.squidoo.com/mcdermottcues/]McDermott Pool Cues, they also do super-high quality, but less expensive)! But, you seldom see, even pro players with anything as much as a $6000 cue - those are really collectors items, not intended for play.

So now you know a bit more about finding the right cue for you, it will improve your game, but remember you still need to have some skill. There's no point in a beginner splashing out $1000 for an amazing cue, but perfectly reasonable for an intermediate or pro. Just take a little time to decide what you want, get a good feel for it, and then go for it!

Darren Scott loves playing pool and collecting pool cues! He's found some great places where you can get some really good deals on [http://www.squidoo.com/mcdermottcues/]McDermott Cues as well as some awesome ways to improve your game - head over to ['a [http://www.squidoo.com/mcdermottcues/http://www.squidoo.com/mcdermottcues//a'] [http://www.squidoo.com/mcdermottcues/]http://www.squidoo.com/mcdermottcues/ now, to find out more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Scott[http://ezinearticles.com/?Improve-Your-Pool-Game-Today-With-The-Right-Cue!&id=567350 ]http://EzineArticles.com/?Improve-Your-Pool-Game-Today-With-The-Right-Cue!&id=567350

Billiard Cues. Do you own a custom pool cue? by ted mauro

Billiard cues can be a challenging subject when it comes to deciding which one to buy. Your pool cue is a big part of your game.

Which is better new or used?

This depends on the condition of the used cue. If a cue is cared for and not banged around and scratched up, used will do fine.

I have owned many cues both new and used. Sometimes you can find some great deals on used cues. I have found some killer deals in pawn shops, eBay and other auctions.

I hope this helps you out when choosing your next billiard cue. Keep an eye out for future pool cue articles.

To Your Run Out Success,

Ted

About the Author Ted Mauro has been playing pool and billiards for over 25 years. You can join in on the daily discussions in Ted's blog with new articles about billiards every day. http://www.poolbilliardssupplies.com

A Bit About McDermott Cues by Jason Marco

Bet you didn't understand how difficult it was to choose a pool cue. However if you're shopping for one, why not consider a set of McDermott cues? Perhaps you believe one pool cue is the same as the one directly next to it, but that can't be the case. Moreover if you want to have a better game than your buddies, whether at the pool hall or at national contests, then McDermott cues won't be unsuccessful. In fact, the professionals typically employ McDermott pool cues!

Why?

Frankly, a McDermott pool stick is not just an average pool cue. Not only that, but the most professional and eminent pool players purchase McDermott cues. The truth is you have virtually limitless possibilities to what style of McDermott cue you can end up with. That's because you can completely customize it!

How? Tell McDermott what weight, ce tip size, stain color, wrap style, etc, you want and you'll own . McDermott pool sticks are commonly designed by the company's private consumers and so if you're wanting for a cue that's ideally appropriate for you – why look anywhere else?

McDermott cues aren't always for the type of pool player who doesn't understand what they're looking for. No, they're geared toward pros who play to win – and play in competitions for that matter. However even if you just want to amaze your pals in your pool room, why not grab some McDermott cues and act sort of like the professionals? There are thousands of McDermott cues out there, so no matter what you're style, you're sure to locate a model you like and if you don't, well, you can just craft one on your own.

But why are McDermott cues so important in the pool world? They have a unique feel about them; that's because of the way they are professionally joined together with stainless steel joints. They will be as direct as a post for a natural life (because of the three-piece butt construction). There are lots of series of McDermott cues to choose from: the Elite, Professional, Tournament, Competitor, HRUSA, and Licensed (listed in order of price).

And one of the best things is with your McDermott cue you'll get a lifetime guarantee. So if you're searching for a pool stick that will endure during the years and make certain that you're on the top of your game, then purchase a McDermott cue. Don't forget to see the additional accessories as well.

Interested in learning more about how McDermott cues can improve your style? Jason Marco runs a discount billiard supply store where you can learn about McDermott products.
http://www.ThePoolHustler.com/pool-cues/mcdermott.html

Article Source: http://www.positivearticles.com

Getting Nicks Out Of Pool Cues
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jason_Marco]Jason Marco

A nick in a pool stick occurs when the wood is suddenly compressed. This normally occurs when the stick is bumped against another object and dented, and usually happens when a stick is being mistreated. Because using sandpaper on a stick is sometimes risky, you should instead try to draw out the nick so you don’t have to risk damaging your pool cue.

For small and less noticeable nicks in your stick, you can burnish your pool stick and make them close up and disappear. Because most pool sticks are made out of wood and wood is a porous material, small nicks and opening appear after extended use. By burnishing them, the pores will shrink and appear less noticeable. To burnish your pool cue, you will need a piece of smooth leather that does not contain dyes. You can use a dollar bill in place of the leather if you like, but it will not provide equal results. You then rub the leather up and down the stick, making sure to rub from the top all the way to the bottom in one smooth motion. If even pressure is not applied, the stick will eventually develop an hourglass shape that cannot be reversed. The heat and friction from the leather will close up the pours in the wood, which brings out small dents and nicks. This method can be rather quick, as long as it is done correctly. The heat closed the pores quicker than pressure, so the stick should be rubbed fast rather than hard.

Sandpaper can also be used for this process, but you would be running a high risk of damaging the stick by going this route. Sandpaper is known for making the stick into an hourglass shape, so it should only be used in rare instances. Sandpaper also works great at cleaning the wood, so it is good for occasional use.

If you find that none of the mentioned methods work for a specific dent or nick in your pool cue, there is one more alternative solution. This method requires using an extreme heat source to pull the nick out, since the heat from friction is not strong enough. You can use a lighter, candle, or other small heat source to heat up the wood, but this method should only be used as a last resort. Because you run the risk of burning or scorching the wood with your fire source, it is important to be very careful and willing to accept the consequences.

Because open pores or dents in a stick can make it lose it’s feeling, it is important to keep them as small as possible. By regularly shrinking the pores on your stick, you can prevent large dents from forming. It is also important to keep sticks from hitting other objects, since this can sometimes cause large dents that cannot be reversed.

Jason Marco is a expert on the subject of Pool and operates a discount billiards store where you can get great equipment to help with you [http://www.thepoolhustler.com/cue-care.html]Pool Stick Care needs.
Click here: http://www.ThePoolHustler.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Marcohttp://EzineArticles.com/?Getting-Nicks-Out-Of-Pool-Cues&id=634361

How To Care For Your Pool Cues
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jason_Marco]Jason Marco

Interested in learning about billiard cue care? A pool cue is your best friend when you get out there to the pool table. Without it, you have no partner! And that's why you should take good care of your pool cue -- so that your game is enhanced and can last a lifetime, too.

So what are some tips for billiard cue care? Well, you're going to need to have some quality accessories on your side if you want to properly maintain your pool cue. For example, a tip, a scuffer, and a cube are some of the products you should invest in.

But why should you care all that much? The fact of the matter is pool cues are not cheap! They cost a lot of money and are integral to helping you beat the competition. If you don't take good care of them, they're not going to last long, and they're not going to perform well. The price tag of a good pool game doesn't just stop at a pool table and set of pool cues for practice; you're going to have to get plenty of accompanying tools to go along with them.

With the right billiard cue care, you'll aim better, you'll win games, and your pool cues will be around for a long time. Not to mention, they will look shiny and new! Many pool cues are beautiful to look at for their intricate art work -- so wouldn't you want to protect that?

Keep in mind that different brands of pool cues will require different steps for billiard cue care. But there are some things you can assume.

Basically, you want a high-quality scuffer to help shape and scuff your cue. Along with this, you'll typically need a tip that's about the size of a dime or nickel to help your cue take to the chalk. (Make sure to replace the tip often!) Also, reduce pressure on your pool cue. Try to keep it up on the rack, instead of letting it lean against a wall, lay down on a surface, fall to the floor, or even get overused. All these common practices can damage your cue. This is why a protective case really comes in handy for billiard cue care.

Some more tips for billiard cue care: don't lend your pool cues out! Keep them in your sight at all times to ensure they are well cared for. But don't worry too much if your pool cue is damaged regardless of these tips; there are repair kits out there that will be of help to you, and you local billiard store may have a service department.

Jason Marco runs a great billiard supply store with discount prices where you can learn more about billiard cue care. Click here: http://www.thepoolhustler.com/cue-care.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Marcohttp://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Care-For-Your-Pool-Cues&id=635453

Site Navigation

Store Navigation

Sponsored Links

Billiard Cues. Do you own a custom pool cue? by ted mauro

About the Author Ted Mauro has been playing pool and billiards for over 25 years. You can join in on the daily discussions in Ted's blog with new articles about billiards every day. http://www.poolbilliardssupplies.com

Sponsored Links