got my freys sp

[Scottlucasi19]

I was looking at the joint of my new freys sp and i didnt know that the screw would go straight into the wood, i havnt owned any cues other than cheap players and lucasi's and thats the first time i have ever seen that it seems like over time the wood would wear out from just putting it together and taking it apart. any info would be helpful, another question whats the best way to smooth my shaft and keep it from splintering w/o a lathe?

 

[Tommy-D]

> In the case of wood screw type joints,where there isn't a metal or composite insert in the shaft,just tapped threads,the best method for keeping it just like it is now,is to do NOTHING with it. Sure,with a McD or Lucasi,there is a chance that eventually the wood may shrink a little and cause the thread fit with the pin to become sloppy,but not with a well-skilled cuemaker like Frey. You can bet the wood inside the shaft is as good as he can get it,nice and snug,if not downright tight,and will more than likely stay that way forever,maybe even getting better. If a well-made wood screw type joint is installed,and the threads are properly cut and treated,it should be quite snug,yet almost feel like you are screwing the pin into a block of soft wax or a bar of soap,with very minimal binding. Sometimes they start out like this,and they get a little moisture in there and it almost feels like the wood is going to split,but that will eventually fix itself too. Just try to keep the pin and joint faces as clean as you can,and wipe the inside of the shaft out with a totally dry Q-tip or wadded up pipe cleaner and enjoy. I'm sure others will agree. Tommy D.

 

[Varney Cues]

Fear not of that joint style. Many, many top makers (like SW) use that style with the wood threaded shaft. It too is prefered by many top players. 99% of my cues are that style. Plus if you manage to destroy the threads they can easily be replaced with wood or phenolic.
I answered how to care for your shaft in your post in the main forum.