I always take the bumper off, and put a small piece of paper in there, with my name and phone number, to prove the cue is mine.Rod.I learned to have (the cue makers) when possible put my name under the wrap- to save future arguments. ( not -possession ) Sorry to hear of your loss- when you get over it a bit-like months,there is a nice schuler with like 5 shafts, reasonably priced,from a collection.