Decorative decal cues

[paul j]

What is the easiest way to determine if the butt of the cue is a decal or made with fine joinery. Price I’m sure is an indicator, but there must some other indicators. Such as very fine tipped points?

 

[measureman]

A lot of people have been fooled by decal cues.
If it's real intricate and under $200 it could be a decal cue, I say again it could be.

 

[whammo57]

if you see a sharp point on an inlay when it is black into a light wood........ it is usually an overlay (decal)............... remember the tiny end mill is round and cannot make a sharp point in a pocket........................

Kim

 

[DeeDeeCues]

What is the easiest way to determine if the butt of the cue is a decal or made with fine joinery. Price I’m sure is an indicator, but there must some other indicators. Such as very fine tipped points?

Easiest way? Insert cue into miter saw, pull trigger, cut cue in half.

Least destructive way? Look at it. If it looks like the 'points are floating above the cue wood, it's a decal. If you can't tell, then it doesn't really matter until you attempt a refinish, now does it?

Best way? Ask the dude who made it.