This is you quest for your perfect cue?
A Schmelke with a Meucci shaft?
You are a pool player, not a collector. I get that. Many change cues like they change socks and don't actually know a lot about cues.
The only one that I am aware of that offers a lifetime shaft warranty is McDermott.
Wood can warp. Even very old very seasoned wood can warp.
What to do about this case?
My immediate response to such a question for a brand new cue is to send it back. Indeed, that may leave you without a cue. Buy a cheap sneaky or play off the wall until the matter is straightened out. Don't wait days or weeks. Don't debate it on forums. Send it back. Request it be fixed or a full refund made.
Whoever made the cue needs to straighten the matter out.
The fly in the ointment is that you bought the shaft elsewhere and had it sent.
You selected a Meucci shaft, why didn't you have Meucci make the cue?
The lesson, as far as I am concerned, is to let your cue maker source the shaft for you, so the entire job is under one warranty.
Meucci is currently offering a free casino trip to their distributors. I guess you know where your money went for your warped shaft.
http://meuccicues.com/
I will not trash a cue maker here in the forum in general. I will just point things out.
Did you see the cell phone video of the Meucci shop tour? Lots to see there.
If you are looking for that "dream cue" consider dropping your money on a custom maker that will work with you to build the whole cue. Don't bargain shop for a "dream cue". Ask the maker about his best shaft stock too...he likely has some hidden in a corner for his "special projects". He might have been holding on to wood longer than you have been alive. Yes, you will pay thousands. But consider the value of the guy making the cue answering the phone himself, and addressing your needs and desires himself.
Yes, Bob Meucci is a custom cue maker. And I respect the man's life work and contributions.
I respect Schmelke as well.
But for a dream cue, I would be looking elsewhere.
If you want a Ferrari don't go to a Ford dealer. They will sell you a Mustang. If you want a Bentley they will sell you a Lincoln.
If you don't know the difference...then go to the Ford dealer with Ferrari or Bentley expectations...you will learn the difference.
I might have suggested Mr Dayton. But he is gone. You know the list of names. Just peruse this forum.
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