I purchased a Meucci FR-4 (Freshman 4) back in November, so I wanted to write a review now that I am used to it.
About me
My first “real” cue was a Viking F50 back in 2006, with a basic maple shaft. I did not start seriously playing pool until I joined a league in 2010. The Viking was great, but once my skill progressed, I felt as though I could benefit from something a little more professional. My father, who is a very good player, shot with Meucci cues since before I could remember. Imagine my surprise when I started doing research, and discovered they have an abysmal reputation in the billiards community.
After deciding on a budget, and after a ton of research, I pulled the trigger on a Pechauer P06, with a Predator 314-2 shaft. To make a long story short, I spent 6 full months of daily play trying to get the hang of this butt/shaft combination. My league rating did not go down, but I stopped consistently winning as I had before. I needed a change, and I needed it quick.
What led me to this cue
Work kept me late, and I was not going to make my league night. I am the captain, so I called my father and asked if we could trade off using his Meucci, since I would not be able to go home first. I instantly fell in love with the hit of his 97-21! I was able pull off shots I could not consistently make with any previous cue, and it just “felt right.”
I have nothing but good things to say about Pechauer, but I made the decision to sell it and put the money towards a Meucci.
Ordering:
Somewhere along the line, I heard that Budget Billards was ran by Bob Meucci’s daughter. After hearing horror stories about factory seconds, buying from a different retailer just to save a few bucks was out of the question. I placed my order online, and chose a black dot shaft (12.75mm), standard Le Pro tip, and 19.5oz weight. The process was quick and easy. I got a tracking number the very next day, and had my cue in about 6 days.
Unboxing/finish
The cue arrived in a tube shaped container, and very well packed. Both the shaft and the butt also came in sealed plastic bags. I carefully examined the every inch of the cue for nicks, dents, paint flaws, or any other defect, but it was perfect. Meucci had problems in the past, but they have clearly stepped up their game. As you can tell by the pictures, it is a great looking cue. I live in southern California, so everyone seems to notice the Lakers color scheme!
Playability
I cannot say enough about how happy I am with my decision. The hit is extremely solid and inspires confidence. The deflection is extremely low, but most importantly, the deflection that does exist is extremely predictable. The shaft is very forgiving, in that you get precision even if you are not the best with complicated English. For example, I could not consistently shoot with inside English to save my life. With this cue, I am currently shooting at 75% or better during a complex shot requiring inside english. Draws, follow shots, and general cue control all improved. I am proud to report I jumped up two levels in my league since I have made the switch!
Conclusion: 5 out of 5
I fully understand I am in the minority shooting with a Meucci. Part of it is deserved, but I hope more people will try one for themselves before making up their minds. On paper, the Pechauer/Predator combination should have been a winner. I feel ridiculous for thinking that picking the perfect cue was a logical, calculated decision that could be decided by specs and reputations.
I would have no problem recommending Meucci to anyone, and I would invite anyone struggling to find their perfect cue to at least give them a try.