MBTaylor said:DISCLAIMER: I have done a search and could not find any topics on this. Also, I know some of you may think this is probably a stupid question/idea, so please excuse this post if you do....lol
With all the high priced break cues out there and the posted results of break speeds, there doesn't seem to be that much a of a cost-benefit reason to buy one.
Ratings table can be found here: https://www.platinumbilliards.com/rating_break.php?sid=34f567e1f2ac053e415e2672b7e1a73a
Note: I currently have a 2nd Gen XBreaker w/ White Diamond tip.
Based on the table there are a bunch of playing cues that have break speeds with a fairly negligible break speed difference than that of the BK2, and the XBreaker is somewhat far down on the list.
Anyway, I have seen people, myself included, break just as well with their shooting cue or a crappy house cue as when using an XBreaker, BK2, etc etc.
The only reason I don't really break with my Predator 5K2 is because Predator ferrules are such a PITA to get replaced if it cracks that I don't want to risk it or go through the hassle.
What I am thinking about doing is getting a cheap jump/break cue and having it modified by having a White Diamond tip and different ferrule installed, maybe an Aegis ferrule. As far as the cue, I am thinking about the Players Sneaky Pete jump/break cue that can be purchased online for about $80.
I was just wondering what your thoughts are on this and maybe get some feed back on J/B cues to use as the base, ferrules to use, or any other ideas on doing this.
You know, I had a time where I think I was looking for the latest and greatest in break cues. Truthfully, however, through all the gimmicks and break cues, I don't think any one of them allowed me to really break any better than any other cue. I mean, I'm sure there might be little things about this cue or that cue that might affect the break, but more than anything, I think simply improving your technique will improve your break far more than any slight advantage in technology of one cue over another.
There were times when I used a house cue to break with, a Cuetec, Fury J/B, Predator Sneaky with BK shaft, Rick Howard Mace, and now a simple Players sneaky. I've also tried numerous others, such as the X-breaker, Mezz PB2, J&J, sneaky w/purpleheart shaft, etc. None really sticks out in my mind as THE one. I will say I liked the feel of the Mace best, but in terms of breaking harder or better, I don't think that was the case.
Quite frankly, I think the best thing I ever discovered was a HARD leather tip. I couldn't quite deal with the phenolic tips, I had a hard time keeping it on the table, plus I hate that horrid sound they make. I really I break as well with my Players sneaky with Hercules Hard tip as anything else I've used.
