cue criteria

[berlowmj]

Sooner or later I will probably move to the custom cue stage. Although, I appreciate aesthetics, my preference is to emphasize performance & something camofluaged (Sneaky Pete strategy) to avoid attracting the attention of thieves as well as the curious.

I realize that I must try many cues, because many of the criteria come down to personal preference & "feel" as they contribute to performance.

I also realize that such a move would be largely a luxury and romanticism-that the rigors of practice & study will be the decisive determinants of my skill.

However, I would like to get advice, opinions, priorities & preferences on criteria such as;

butt & shaft tapers

custom shafts vs manufactured shafts such as Universal Smart Shaft, Predator, OB ...

joint material & construction

woods

balance point

forward vs backward weighting

butt plate

wrap for & against as well as material

and anything I have overlooked in my ignorance

 

[berlowmj]

oops, I omitted ferrule

 

[Drawman623]

Most of the categories you list require a subjective opinion, tempered by those very preferences you have discussed. The balance of aesthetics vs performance...the artful vs subtle design. You must answer these questions yourself.

I prefer the deflection rich feel of an ivory ferrule to the low deflection Predator product...but others are exactly opposite in their approach. I prefer FF ivory joints with 3/8 pins, while many swear by the piloted 5/16 design.

Go to a cue show like the midwest expo in Dayton this weekend, or the Allen Hopkins Expo in March and hit with an array of cues. Then, if clear opinions emerge, make a choice.

 

[PistolPat]

Hmmm................

Well if you're goin for a sneaky look then go for a skeay pete cue. nothing special just a good 4 point hustler cue. Wood and ferrule are really not as important as the weight, the tip and taper you prefer.

 

[hangemhigh]

oops, I omitted ferrule

That in it's self is not a bad thing!