I'm not familiar with Padgent, but Carmeli has an excellent reputation. If you are able to hit with some custom cues before you buy any one maker, you're way ahead in this game. Hit with as many different makers as you can, then figure out what you want, how much you want to spend, then talk to some cuemakers. Look in the gallery for examples. I would recommend Joe Callaluca and Dick Neighbors for making fine playing cues. Good luck!
You can't go wrong with either one...but hit is subjective based on preference...I'd recommend you go and hit with all of your friends cues, and anyone else that has a custom cue, and see how you like the hit...make them tell you what type of tip they're using, too...just so that you know.
There are a thousand variations of hit and feel and feedback, and you need to pick what works for you.
I've had many customs and countless productions, there are great hitters and not so great hitters, all mixed together, and what I don't like...maybe, in the hands of another, may be the best cue they ever felt.
If you've already test drove the cues, then pick one and go with it.