Seasoning the wood is the key . I work with lumber everyday and am still surprised at the things it can do. Allowing the wood to sit for long periods of time unworked is a discipline in it's self.
I Love my Joss cues , I have an East and a West, both great cues. When I started making cues I wanted them to hit like the Joss East . I play with my own cue now , but will always have a soft spot for Joss .