Hit/Feel versus Low Deflection Shafts

[LWW]

I'm far from the expert in this game as I've been playing regular less than a year i do want to offer athought here that I've not seen mentioned on the Predator cues.

The butt of a cue has essentially no effect on the play of the cue. It is chosen more for artistic benefits than anything els. Each brands shaft will play slightly different.

Now all that being said IMHO if you learn to shoot with a 314 then no matter what cue you may buy in the future you can add a 314 to it and know how the cue will play with minimal to zero learning curve needed.

My $0.02, YMMV.

LWW

 

[DEATHTRON]

From my knowledge the best way would be to go with a Bob Dzuicky shaft.

He makes one which has a graphite insert in the end of the shaft which lowers the weight simikar to the 314 hollow spot but retains a more solid maplesque fell.

I have only tried one but it was to me undiscernible in deflection from a 314 and undiscernible from a maple shaft in feel.

My $0.02. YMMV. No association with DZcues, yadda yadda yadda/

LWW

Also I believe Edwin Reyes does this...the new McDermott shafts are like this etc.

Just get whats right for you...if you like predator why try to change? Just role with the flow of it. You are taking a gamble with getting the Schon shaft over the predator, you already know you like the predator. Test hit the Schon...only you will be able to tell you whats best for you.

Zach

 

[Gerald]

I am used to the Predator but I like the feel and feedback of an all maple shaft. I just don't want to take the time left to me in relearning the game. I tried it for a month and my game, such as it is, suffered, Went back to the Predator back came my game and I once again am enjoying the time spent at the pool hall. Just depends on how much time you can spend to make the adjustment--either way. IMO

 

[Egg McDogit]

I would like to thank you all for your responses!

What if I had the Schon shaft taken down to 12.75mm like the Predator shaft. Would that decrease the Schon shaft deflection? Has anyone tried this? I know it wouldnt be the same as the 314 due to the hollow area. But shouldnt it help some? Isnt this why the Z shaft deflects less than the 314?

Thanks again for your time,
JW

yeah I used to have a schon and I did this (12.5mm though). It does decrease the deflection a bit, but keep in mind that it'll change the hit. The deflection still won't be anywhere close to a predator. You'll have to completely relearn how to aim with english either way.

 

[drivermaker]

I'm far from the expert in this game as I've been playing regular less than a year

The butt of a cue has essentially no effect on the play of the cue. It is chosen more for artistic benefits than anything els. Each brands shaft will play slightly different.

LWW

I'm glad you made your opening disclaimer, because it can somewhat get you off the hook for the follow-up advice. However, if you go through life believing that, not only will you be DEAD WRONG, but you'll also giving out totally erroneous advice.

The size of the butt, whether thicker or thinner... the weight of the butt...the way the butt is weighted and BALANCED... the joint and type of joint collar, and even the grip material or lack thereof can ALL have an effect on the way a cue plays. AND that same butt will play like a TOTALLY DIFFERENT CUE with another shaft on it.