OK everyone, I finally broke down and bought a used Mezz PB2 w DI shaft to compare it to my BK2. The curiosity and "what if's" got to me and I had to try the Mezz. The price was finally "right" on this cue for me, and this is not the Kai or the new DI 2 shaft. In the end the Mezz was about 35$ more than what I got my BK2 for so, I looked at it as worth getting to test them and make up my mind.
I must clarify that this Mezz came with the factory ferrule but the previous owner had a samsara tip installed/upgraded to replace the Mezz's sonic tip. I happen to have liked the Samsara on a previous break cue, so that did not bother me, but probably makes for the ability to possibly feel a softer shot, and of course easy to apply english for control. Therefore, you have to adjust for this extra english slightly if you have a controlled power break like I do, so that the ball stays in the center of the table after the break.
The first thing that was only really evident to me, upon finally getting the cue is that it is about 4 inches (estimated) shorter than a normal 58 inch cue. I did not really study the diagram at Mezzusa for this cue construction so I did not really plan on it being noticeable to me.
I did not feel any awkwardness, at all... but i'm 5'9" and guys over 6ft tall may not be able to place their hand in their typical shot set up. Naturally, I will have to make another wooden dowel for my case, like I did for my jump cue... since the butt of the Mezz drops into the slot and does not sit level as a result of this short length.
In comparing the BK2 w the Mezz I was quite surprised that both seemed like a similar hit to me. Both have a definitive "hollow" hit, likely to the similar technology of having a conical shaped area under the tip area. I think this is to redirect power in off center shots, but in any event it is quite evident when shooting, and obviously felt most at a lower power break or just hitting around the table.
The Mezz was slightly less hollow sounding and feeling as compared to the BK2... but this could be a result of the samsara tip as compared to the Predator Phenolic Break tip.
I did prefer the Mezz to the BK2, but I will be using them in the next couple of weeks to make sure. I will have to sell the one I decide is less preferable.
One thing that is evident upon putting the Mezz together is the "united joint" unique to Mezz. When the shaft and butt are put together it starts out like a typical piloted 5/16 x 14, but halfway the resistance changes/increases and there is a precision and smooth tightening that is unlike any other break cue I have tried.
To me this MUST result in a unity of the butt and shaft with much less if "no tolerance" or play. It comes together smoothly, tight, and without any slight wiggle at ALL. Extremely PRECISE... I believe this must result in a better transfer without loss of energy that the Predator, or any other joint.
And that may be the biggest difference in the end.. and perhaps why I am leaning toward the Mezz as my preferred break cue.
If I notice anything else I will add to this. I have tried both cues at all out power, and controlled breaks, but it seems to me that the joint and weighting of the Mezz packs a bit of a greater punch in either approach. Of course, you mileage may very and this is all in IMHO.
At least I can rest easier at night, knowing I have had the chance to try these together. It has only been about 10 racks so if I change my mind, in a couple of days I will let you know. Hope this helps a couple of people...