I used to think Schmelke cues were junk (ignorance on my part...this was 20-25 years ago). Then, while I was one of the instructors at the BCA Summer Youth Cue Camps, in WI in 1994, we took a day trip to the Schmelke factory, in Rice Lake, WI. They took us through every step and stage, in their manufacturing process (over 100 steps to produce a cue), and I learned a TON about their cues. I was flat amazed, and have never forgotten what a quality cue Schmelke produces...and for a very reasonable cost.
Scott Lee
www.poolknowledge.com