Tiger got it right . . .
The trick with the Sniper is the install. Many Snipers are ruined immediately due to poor installation methods. They do get harder, as do all tips, but not dramatically so for me. A fresh Sniper plays like no other...and I usually start playing so well with it that I don't ever want to replace it until its really done. Yes its firmer at the end of its life span...but not so much that it bothers me...and yet it still plays wonderful. :smile:
Used to use Moori's . . . they just lost it. The newer one's are just not like the older one's. I have no scientific, quantifiable, research based answer - just my simplistic observation that they crust up, harden and don't play well in short order. They ain't worth the trouble anymore.
The Tiger Sniper is the best all around tip I've ever played with . . . 4 yrs now . . . they are consistent, durable, and give great performance. I'm not a pro - but, the world's best players use 'em. I think I'm beginning to see why.
The Tiger Emerald (Green) and J&J Wizard tips are both EXCELLENT tips for the money . . . <$5 each with 80 - 90 % of the performance of a $20 tip.
I saw Mike Massey give an exhibition in March. He's been using the Emerald since late last year on his player's cues. I asked him about what he was playing with. His comment was, "I like the Emerald a lot! It'll put any spin you'll ever need on ANY spot on the cue ball - even if you're NOT Mike Massey!" The guy did a 100 crazy ass masse shots from everywhere that night . . . and then played about 25 folks in the audience games of eight ball with the same cue. I asked him, "how often you change out tips?" He said, "every few months, I just pick it some nights and go on." He's doing this after playing with it almost every night!
I used the Wizards for a couple of years . . . and they are VERY close to an old Moori for $5. I'd use the Emerald or a Wizard in lieu of a Sniper without a second thought. Long as I can afford the Sniper's though . . . game on.