Played with Meucci, Helmstter, Heubler, McDermott, Adam, Mali, and I felt that for me the Heubler was the best constructed cue and played the best- but I would not use any of those cues as a excuse in a loss- all were at least adequate. My favorite customs include Scruggs, R Black, Gilbert, Downey, Durzuricky, Gracio, Capone. OH- one more- try an old 1980s Excalibur - great dense shafts- I own one that is mint and it is amazing - just switch out the brass joint for a Juma joint. Old Dufferin house cues converted also can play real well if they are straight- use a 3/8 10 joint on those!