Quoted for truth. Or, get a Lucasi SP for around $125.
If you're looking in the custom market, there is no better playing cue sub $1k than a Scruggs SP. If you like STIFF cues, then get a Barnhart player for around the same price as the Scruggs.
If you want to try one, send me your address. I bought one a long time ago to give it a try.
It worked. I only used it on test shafts that I have left over from cut down house cues. The problem I ran into was any amount of pressure you exert when trimming the tip flush is reflected in bands...
All I know is Schmelke acknowledged making ebony/maple plain jain cues in a batch order, and the pricing/timeline was in line with the cues order/delivery....
You have to figure out a trigger to re-center yourself.
What do you do when you're really pissed off and need to calm down? What do you do when shit hits the fan at work and you need to concentrate?
Sometimes I need to excuse myself to the rest room and splash some water in my face...