Well, I have had this cue for about three weeks now, and let me tell you, it usually takes me quite a while (months) to get used to a cue. This one however feels like I have played with it for a very long time. I just feel the hit and balance was custom made for me, but the truth is I purchased it used. The previous owner (whom I do not know) fortunately for me, let it go, and it fell into my hands via a close friend who deals in new and used cues. In fact one of the things that intrigued me about this cue was that Mr. Varney posted a few comments on the for sale thread. He provided some insider cue maker information on the history of this cue that made me think "How interesting, the builder of this cue shows interest of a cue he built, and has no personal gain from a used cue sale."
http://forums.azbilliards.com/showthread.php?t=263094&highlight=varney
This tells me that he cares enough about even his older work being passed onto a new person, and takes the time to tell the inside information on the cue. Pretty cool I thought. Now to get onto the cue performance.
Well, the tone of the hit is sweet in my books. That "ting" hit on a great stroke comes very often even with my non professional stroke, and the balance is just right for me. No weight bolt, just great construction, and I must agree with his opinion that Birds Eye Maple forearm combined with a Purple Heart handle makes a fantastic marriage of woods to give you that hit. Even though this cue is about three or four years old and it has been an every day player the finish is still superb, clear, smooth, shiney and nothing is chipped or lifting at any joint or ring area. No rattles or buzzes, still tight and solid with great feedback on how I am stroking.
Unfortunately I cannot say how a Varney shaft performs as this cue came with an original Predator 314 blank fitted with his matching ring work as well as an OB Classic shaft also with the matching ring work. So far I use just the 314 and it suits me just fine.
I have even ordered a custom made set of J/P's from Jim Baxter for my new aquisition as I plan on never letting this one go. My now every day player.
My thanks to Mr. Varney for making a great cue, and also to Scott for giving me the shot at purchasing this cue.
I am in no way associated with Kevin Varney, nor do I work for him. Just love this cue and wanted to pass on my review.
Cheers
Walter aka headmuses. :thumbup:
http://forums.azbilliards.com/showthread.php?t=263094&highlight=varney
This tells me that he cares enough about even his older work being passed onto a new person, and takes the time to tell the inside information on the cue. Pretty cool I thought. Now to get onto the cue performance.
Well, the tone of the hit is sweet in my books. That "ting" hit on a great stroke comes very often even with my non professional stroke, and the balance is just right for me. No weight bolt, just great construction, and I must agree with his opinion that Birds Eye Maple forearm combined with a Purple Heart handle makes a fantastic marriage of woods to give you that hit. Even though this cue is about three or four years old and it has been an every day player the finish is still superb, clear, smooth, shiney and nothing is chipped or lifting at any joint or ring area. No rattles or buzzes, still tight and solid with great feedback on how I am stroking.
Unfortunately I cannot say how a Varney shaft performs as this cue came with an original Predator 314 blank fitted with his matching ring work as well as an OB Classic shaft also with the matching ring work. So far I use just the 314 and it suits me just fine.
I have even ordered a custom made set of J/P's from Jim Baxter for my new aquisition as I plan on never letting this one go. My now every day player.
My thanks to Mr. Varney for making a great cue, and also to Scott for giving me the shot at purchasing this cue.
I am in no way associated with Kevin Varney, nor do I work for him. Just love this cue and wanted to pass on my review.
Cheers
Walter aka headmuses. :thumbup:
