Cue Types: Different Strokes for Different Folks?

[KCRack'em]

I'm not exactly sure what terms would turn up answers using the search function, so here goes.

I generally shoot with merry widow cues. I'm not sure whether it's my preference or if it kind of happened by coincidence. I appreciate the elegance of highly figured wood and the simplicity of a merry widow. I do prefer a wrapless cue and would choose some leathers (bison for one) over linen.

I have been reading that some folks prefer the hit of a full-spliced cue. I also just read that a hustler or sneaky doesn't hit the same as a full-spliced cue. This surpises me.

Can anyone describe the differences? I know that within each type there will be variation, but, in general, what kind of hit do you expect when you pick up the various types of cues? Unfortunately, I don't have the opportunity to test drive different types.

I think I'll take the plunge and have a Davis blank finished for me (Sly). Of course it will be wrapless. I'd also like to acquire a traditional cue at some point.

I do realize that we have different preferences, thus the thread title.

Thanks!

 

[HollyWood]

length and weight

Davis blanks are good-(many types of inlay colors, been used by greats for yrs. and so are Leons methods ,he learned from a great builder and coach. mark You have made great choices in my bk!! Leon shoots straight business with ya-

 

[CreeDo]

Honestly I strongly suspect most players could not pass a blindfold "pepsi challenge" between two similar cues that had the same weight and tip. But a single piece cue by necessity can't have a multi-part shaft, like most LD shafts. So right away you'll notice a difference if you're used to predator or OB shafts.

I don't know if it's possible to "feel" a joint while swinging a cue, unless it's loose.

 

[Tony_in_MD]

IMHO the only difference that exists lies between that 6 inches of space between our ears.

That in itself though is good enough to find something you like. You don't need negative messages creeping into your thoughts when you are playing.

I'm not exactly sure what terms would turn up answers using the search function, so here goes.

I generally shoot with merry widow cues. I'm not sure whether it's my preference or if it kind of happened by coincidence. I appreciate the elegance of highly figured wood and the simplicity of a merry widow. I do prefer a wrapless cue and would choose some leathers (bison for one) over linen.

I have been reading that some folks prefer the hit of a full-spliced cue. I also just read that a hustler or sneaky doesn't hit the same as a full-spliced cue. This surpises me.

Can anyone describe the differences? I know that within each type there will be variation, but, in general, what kind of hit do you expect when you pick up the various types of cues? Unfortunately, I don't have the opportunity to test drive different types.

I think I'll take the plunge and have a Davis blank finished for me (Sly). Of course it will be wrapless. I'd also like to acquire a traditional cue at some point.

I do realize that we have different preferences, thus the thread title.

Thanks!

 

[Mitchxout]

The shaft size and taper dictates whether the cue is stiff or flexible. Other than that, the tip is the most important part of the cue. Other factors, like joint construction, wood choice, etc determine money value but have have less to do with playability.

 

[KCRack'em]

The shaft size and taper dictates whether the cue is stiff or flexible. Other than that, the tip is the most important part of the cue. Other factors, like joint construction, wood choice, etc determine money value but have have less to do with playability.

That's been my opinion for a long time. What I'm getting at is that folks claim to feel a difference at the butt with various types of cues and various woods (and I suppose with various wraps and wrapless cues).

I really liked a kingwood cue that I once had. After a long layoff from the game, I didn't feel the magic so I let it go. No regrets, either.

 

[poolplayer2093]

Honestly I strongly suspect most players could not pass a blindfold "pepsi challenge" between two similar cues that had the same weight and tip. But a single piece cue by necessity can't have a multi-part shaft, like most LD shafts. So right away you'll notice a difference if you're used to predator or OB shafts.

I don't know if it's possible to "feel" a joint while swinging a cue, unless it's loose.

i think i could with soe cues. schons have that hige piece of steel n the middle n that really changed the way the cue feels.