I'll praise cues I see on here, based on the clear quality of the build. I won't condemn or criticize any cue maker until I've tried them, and find it interesting that so many will rank order cues by makers they've likely never tried. I've been playing all over the country (and Europe) for the past 26 years, I'd never heard of Tascarella until I joined this board about five years ago. I'd seen all the production cues, most imports, Szambotti (Gus), Balabushka, Richard Black, Tim Scruggs, Joss West, Black Boar, Ginas, Rundes, Rauenzahns, South West and numerous others in pool rooms all over the States, but never a Tasc. Saw my first one 6 months ago in person. Definitely a high quality cue, I'd love to have one...interesting his reputation (I'm sure well earned) is the highest on this board, but I've only seen one in a pool room, and that was in PA. I've seen more authentic Balabushkas in action than Tascarellas. I'm very curous how many that own a Tasc and claim he's in a class all his own have ever actually seen any of the other HoF cue makers' cues? Maybe he is the best (although I'll bet Searing and Hercek would be tough to beat). I'll continue to lust over all the cues I see on this site, but as to all the hoopla over who's cues are the best, the only opinion that matters to me is mine.
, more. Tascarella cues though different in some construction techniques are on par with ANY maker including Denis and Joel.... His work is top tier. Has been since the 70's.
