Pool cue help

[mongoose-]

In your case as you sound new to the game in equipment knowledge I would do this. Get the names of some decent models and look around the online stores for details on them. Then go to your local shop & get them to order it or get one of the brands you like if they have it. Here are some good names below you can get for between $100 & $200. Buy a HARD case. "Don't let the guy sell you a magic cue that don't miss". No such thing.

Good site to compare models: http://www.billiardwarehouse.com

Mcdermott
Viking
Mali
Cutec
Players
Lucasi

 

[PDX]

cheap cue

You should be able to get a players sneaky for 60 or so brand new. They play great and you don't have to worry if it gets nicked up.

 

[Burns]

True. I am used to my McDermott cue, and shoot well with it.

But you can't say that a Predator or OB shaft does not make a difference....

It will make a difference, of course. Not neccessarily an improvement though. All cuemakers shafts play different from one another, and the OB1 and Predators are no exception. They may have lower deflection, but that doesnt mean better performance. As long as you are comfortable with the way your cue plays it will be the best cue for you. If you get used to a McDermott shaft, switching to an OB1 will be very hard, and in the end when you get used to it there will be little benefit for making the change.