I didn't read the whole thread so this may have been commented on already. The one thing I can tell you is that there is probably nobody in the country that has the tap for that cue. You will not be able to get the shaft repaired if it strips, you will not be able to get a new shaft made, and you will not be able to get any custom joint protectors. I would just play with it and if you have a problem with the shaft, get the shaft made to fit a 3/8-10 or Radial pin and have the pin changed in the butt.
Yeah, this has been discussed.
How often do shaft joints need to be repaired ? From what I read, not very often.
I am ok with the fact that if I ever have a problem with the joint or shaft, I will have to deal with Mezz. Doesn't bother me. I bought a Mezz cue because I like how it plays, hits, and feels. I want my new shaft to be the same. Best way to make that happen is to deal with Mezz.
Obviously the joint is an issue for some. For them, don't buy a Mezz. All the Mezz owners I have met love their cue and the joint is not a problem.