If you’re passionate about pool and are tired of playing with the house cue, the next thing you’ll be thinking is to buy your own stick.
With hundreds of options out there and such diverse manufacturers and styles, finding the best pool cues can turn into an overwhelming task. That’s why it’s a good idea to do a little bit of research before making a rash and impulsive purchase. Here is a short guide to help you through the process.
Consider This When Buying Pool Cues
- Skill Level. There’s no need to look at the most expensive pool cue if you’re only a beginner. You’re not going to play better just because you’re using the finest quality of products, but because you take work and practice seriously.
- Weight and Balance. The weight in most house cues is concentrated at the very back of the stick. If you have a short arm spam, you will feel more tension towards the butt of the cue, so you’ll tend to grip the cue too far back to compensate. Consider looking for a 19 ounces pool cue, which is the most popular and the ideal weight for the majority of players.
- Pool Cue Construction. Pool cues usually come in one piece or two pieces. The one piece version is more solid and accurate, and it’s suitable for professional players. But, if you’re a recreational player who wants to take his cue at the club, the two-piece version is more practical.
Top 10 Pool Cues Table
| Picture | Name | Cue Shaft | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Players Classically Styled Crimson Maple Pool Cue | Maple | $$$$ | 4.6 |
| 2. Viper Underground 58" 2-Piece Billiard/Pool Cue, The Raven | Maple | $$ | 4.6 |
| 3. Viper Junior 48" 2-Piece Billiard/Pool Cue, 16 Ounce | Maple | $$ | 4.5 |
| 4. Imperial Officially Licensed NFL 57-Inch 2-Piece Billiard/Pool Cue | Maple | $$$ | 4.4 |
| 5. Iszy Billiards 58-Inch Hardwood Canadian Maple | Maple | $$ | 4.2 |
| 6. Minnesota Fats Hustler High Tech Grip Graphite Cue | Maple | $$$ | 4.0 |
| 7. Mizerak Shorty Cue (1 Piece), 40" | Maple | $ | 3.7 |
| 8. Viper Commercial 1-Piece Hardwood Billiard/Pool House Cue | Maple | $ | 3.7 |
| 9. Trademark Global Billiard Cue | Maple | $$ | 3.4 |
| 10. Viper Signature 57" 2-Piece Realtree Camouflage | Maple | $ | 3.2 |
Buyers Information
Choosing a pool cue can be confusing if you’ve never done it before and you’re not sure what you should be looking for. Pay attention to these features in order to find a quality pool cue.
- Ash vs. Maple. Although it’s true that it’s not the kind of stick you use that makes you a good player but how you use it, one can’t deny that the choice of materials used in the construction of a pool cue plays a major role in the player’s enjoyment. A pool cue is made from either maple wood or ash. Even though they are both very good timber, maple tends to be denser and harder than ash.
If you are a recreational player, a maple shaft is a perfect choice. If you require a high-performance cue, it’s better to choose an ash one. The ash shaft absorbs grease and dirt better and makes for a drier feel of the hands for the player.
- Pay Attention to the Tip. When choosing the tip, consider density and hardness. Soft tipswill absorb more impact causing the tip to stay on the ball for a second longer, while hard tips can reduce spin.
Medium tips are usually the right option for most players because they provide a good ball control and don’t change shape easily and frequently.
- Machine Spliced vs. Hand Spliced. There’s a common misconception that hand spliced cues are better than machine spliced one. That’s because hand spliced cues are more expensive than machine ones, and most people believe that price is a clear indication of quality. That isn’t always the case. Due to the advances in technology in recent years, machine spliced cues have become more performant and accurate than in the past.
Top 3 Best Pool Cues Reviews
1. Players Classically Styled Crimson Maple
The Players Classically Styled Crimson Maple Pool Cue is the overall highest rated pool cue by both experts and recreational players. This pool cue offers an unbeatable combination of style, performance, and comfort. The hard rock maple that was dried seven times to inhibit warping makes this pool cue not only look beautiful but also shoot with great accuracy.
The double-pressed Irish linen wrap provides a comfortable grip as you line up and shoot. One of its finest features includes the quality French Le Pro tips, a special high impact ferrule, and a French cue wax. What you will appreciate the most about this cue is the pro taper that ensures superior control on all of your shots.
All in all, the Players Classically Styles Crimson Maple Pool Cue is a fantastic gear that comes at an excellent price. If you are looking for the best pool cues on the market, this is a perfect choice.
2. Viper Underground The Raven
If you want a pool cue that is accurate and high-quality but also has an edgy personality, this is the perfect pick. The Viper Underground pool cue is made from quality Canadian maple wood and feature bold tattoo style graphics.
And, that’s not all!
There are several stainless steel rings placed on the sleeve and forearm of the cue that add to its uniqueness and edginess. More than that, the stainless steel joints help provides feedback during play.
Available in 18-21 ounces weights, this pool cue is suitable for most players regardless of their height or arm length. What’ more important, it will help you improve your play and have a lot of fun in the process.
To conclude, Viper Underground offer great quality, unique design, and sturdiness. These pool cues are worth every penny.
3. Viper Junior 48″ 2-Piece Billiard/Pool Cue
Although smaller than the Viper Underground Pool Cue, the Viper Junior is most of what you want in a quality stick. It’s made from Canadian maple, so you know it will last for years to come. It’s finished with a Le Pro leather tip and a rubber bumper that ensures a comfortable grip. And, it doesn’t hurt that it looks cool, as well.
Made from two easy-to-assemble pieces, the Viper Junior allows for simple transportation and storage. You don’t have to worry anymore about finding the best solutions to carry your stick to the pub or leaving it there.
The cue weighs 16 ounces, making it the perfect choice for a novice player who is looking for a lighter stick to practice with.
Comfortable, practical, and affordable, the Viper Junior is, without a doubt, one of the best pool cues money can buy.
