Steve Hotrodded my TS cue - Thanks Steve!
as posted in the Main Forum:
Some may recall, recently I purchased a TS cue hoping that it might become my new player. The main appeal of this cue for me was that it was 59" with two full ~13mm original shafts.
My plan was to have it refinished (it had a fair amount of small dings, scratches, some swirls on the ss joint), also change the tired looking black linen wrap, have one shaft turned down to 12.75 with a new moori medium and also put a kamui black soft on the 13mm shaft (I like that combo for bar tables with mudballs and the like). And, finally, adjust the weight bolt to bring the cue down from 20.5, nearer to 19 oz.
I decided to have Steve Klapp do the work since I have read lots of good reviews posted in his "cue refinishing" thread on our AZ wanted/for sale forum.
I wish I would have taken more (and better) before pics of the cue. Let me say that it was in reasonably good shape but with the usual evidence of being used.
During the refinish job, one surprise that came up was that there was no weight bolt. Steve went ahead and cored the cue, got the weight down to right where I requested but, as a result, the cue lost its hallmark TS resonant (((ping))) sound to which I've become so accustomed. So, no problem, Steve made a core wood adjustment with something denser/stiffer and, voila, that problem was solved.
The last issue is really a good one:
The cue has come back looking like a brand new cue. So much so that I may hesitate to take it to the pool halls/bars. j/k Don't worry, I'll get over it.
The beautiful streaking of the ebony grain and the grain of the ivory starburst inlays are really popping with this refinish. The veneers are vivid and the wrap is perfect.
At all times, Steve was an absolute pleasure to deal with and I am 100% pleased with the terrific outcome. So much so, that I already have a Jeff Olney in his capable hands and plan to send him plenty more.
Steve Klapp is conciencious, dependable, and a true gentleman. And his prices are very fair.
Anyone looking to have work done on a cue should not hesitate to contact him. I believe you will be very impressed with his quality and care.
Best,
Brian kc
first pic is before -
