Handle Wood Question

[Kid Dynomite]

I have seen most cue makers use maple for the handle wood extensively? I was curious as to why? I have a big beuatiful piece of wenge to make a cue out of and thought about having the handle wood be wenge as well because I have so much of it. I was curious as to any draw backs of using it instead of maple. I thought about the possible weight issues and found that wenge and maple are comparable in weight. The only apparent difference between them is resonance and accoustic properties. The other thought was a maple laminated handle wood. I like the laminated one I have now on another cue. I just wanted some additional thoughts on the topic before pulling the trigger on a new cue and value the AZB communities input.

Thanks!

Sincerely,
Kid Dynomite

 

[Craig Fales]

You could probably use any good solid hardwood...if you were to wrap it you'd just be covering up a nice looking wood species but I don't see anything wrong with it...if that's your objective....
________

 

[Chris' Cues]

You don't have to use maple in the handle. Most do use maple or ash if it is going to be wrapped because of price.
On a nonwrapped wood handle cue you can use just about an wood that you would use in the forearm. I have used Cocobolo, Bacote, Brazilian rosewood, and even Ebony with great success. The main concern is how it will effect the weight of the cue.
You shouldn't have any problems with a wood close to the weight of maple. Good luck, and make it the way you want.
Chris