P3/z2

[Kurt]

Did a search, but can't seem to input "p3" in the search field, and can't find any worthwhile reviews of the Predator P3.

Can I get some feedback from people who have used the P3? From around the local pool hall, I've heard a lot of great things about how it feels to shoot with it.

As a side note, I'd like some feedback about the Z2 shaft. Is it really true that it's a lot more "unforgiving" than other shafts? As one of the lowest deflection shafts in the industry, it seems to me that it has the capability of also being one of the most accurate when using english. Anybody care to extrapolate on these two topics for me? Thanks!

 

[ajuarbe]

I have never played with a p3 so I cannot comment. I will say I would not spend that type of money on it. I do however play with a Z2 and it is unforgiving when your stroke is off. I like it very much. It will take some getting used to but like anything else you will adapt. I would maybe try shooting with someone cue who has a Z2 shaft on it. What I did was I looked on predators website for a dealer that was also a demo center. If you have one close by you can go and test out the Z2 and the 314/2 and see which one you like best.

 

[cigardave]

There's always an adjustment when changing shafts (and cues in general). The more shafts and cues you shoot with regularly, the easier the adjustment will be, imo.

I bounce back and forth between 3 or 4 cues during any given session on my home table (which includes a Z2, a 314 and a couple of regular shafts).

Of all the shafts that I have played with, the most significant adjustment was learning to play with a Z2. You have to be VERY precise in where you strike whitey. You'll definitely know when you don't contact whitey where you intended.

Below that, the next most significant was learning to play with a 314, which was my 1st low squirt/deflection shaft that I learned to play with.

Now, I can which back and forth between my cues without hardly noticing any difference in my game.

 

[Kurt]

There's always an adjustment when changing shafts (and cues in general). The more shafts and cues you shoot with regularly, the easier the adjustment will be, imo.

I bounce back and forth between 3 or 4 cues during any given session on my home table (which includes a Z2, a 314 and a couple of regular shafts).

Of all the shafts that I have played with, the most significant adjustment was learning to play with a Z2. You have to be VERY precise in where you strike whitey. You'll definitely know when you don't contact whitey where you intended.

Below that, the next most significant was learning to play with a 314, which was my 1st low squirt/deflection shaft that I learned to play with.

Now, I can which back and forth between my cues without hardly noticing any difference in my game.

So the z2 is less forgiving...but is there an upside? Do you find it easier to put side english on the ball and stay accurate due to the low deflection, compared to other shafts?

 

[ajuarbe]

Now, I can which back and forth between my cues without hardly noticing any difference in my game.

I think being able to switch back and forth with your own personal cues is easy, but picking up a totally new cue and shooting with it would still take an adjustment.

 

[cigardave]

So the z2 is less forgiving...but is there an upside? Do you find it easier to put side english on the ball and stay accurate due to the low deflection, compared to other shafts?

Hmmm... in general, I purposely try to avoid playing off the vertical centerline of whitey... except in

1) very short shots wherein I need to apply running english in order to open up the rebound angle off a cushion and/or to speed up whitey after contacting a cushion... (even for short shots, I usually have to adjust a bit for squirt in these cases... not that much difference in aim from using a standard shaft)

and except in 2) when I need to use inside english to shorten up the rebound angle off a cushion. That comes into play occasionally.

The biggest noticeable difference is in #2. There is a very minor adjustment in aiming necessary when playing with a Z2... especially when the shot is stroked smoothly and with only enough speed/power as absolutely necessary.

If I were playing with a regular shaft on #2, the adjustment would be significant... and I would be less likely to make the ball, unless it were a very close shot.

Hope that helps. :thumbup:

 

[cigardave]

I think being able to switch back and forth with your own personal cues is easy, but picking up a totally new cue and shooting with it would still take an adjustment.

I agree... but I believe that aspect is beyond the question of the OP.

But I'll add, the more cues you play with the easier the adjustment will be to adapt to a totally new cue.

 

[McChen]

i've tried the p3 quite a few times and the butt hits very soft, which is not my preference. i thought the predator steel jointed, wrapless sneakies were better and cheaper too!