I love to see videos like this. Anyone who knows me knows that I have been a rabid pro-jump cue guy forever. I created the Bunjee Jumper brand based on a jump cue made by Franz Hauber in Germany. With Franz we developed the production version in Taiwan and I took 400 of them to the VNEA and BCA nationals in 1999. We sold out and by the end of the event some of the dealers I had sold some too early were selling them for $125 instead of the $99 I had them priced at.
I taught myself how to do controlled shots like this to be able to demonstrate the cue effectively. I had a whole routine worked out that started with easy shots and progressed to making balls out of clusters and jump-masse shots.
Here is a little video of me doing some similar shots back then,
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCDAE91F25C56ADDC&feature=view_all
I have always said that jumping is a skill. The jump cue, invented by Pat Fleming, is an inert tool, it facilitates the jump shot in the exact same way that a pool cue facilitates playing normal shots. A jump cue makes the shot easier but it does not make the shot.
To get this kind of precision requires practice and really steady nerves if you are going to do them in game situations.
And there are two primary types of jump cues. "Normal" ones like the Bunjee which are about 7-9oz and ultra lights that are about 6oz or less. Ultra lights make it very easy to jump the ball but require a much better touch to control the cue ball. Normal jump cues feel closer to a regular cue in the balance when in the jumping position.
Both can be used to achieve incredible shotmaking. But, don't think it's the cue doing the work. When you see a great draw shot by Mike Massey it's not the cue it's Mike. I have seen GREAT players not be able to jump accurately with a jump cue until they actually put down their egos and accepted a little instruction and then put in a little practice.
Lastly, Keith Hanssen build an amazing cue. One of the great underrated cue makers out there in my opinion. I have never held one of his jump cues but I have no doubt it's made with incredible care and quality. I was privileged to see some of his cues that my friend Martin Gauger imported to Germany in the 90s. Let's just say that if Keith hadn't quit to make high end duck calls he would probably be a darling of the AZ forums cue circle right now in my opinion.
(and no Justin I am not buttering you up cuz you ordered a case.....Keith IS that good as you also know.)
