One thing that I have not seen mentioned, the preference for a joint by the OP. If you prefer a piloted joint (5/16x14), either a Szamboti or a Tascarella would be fine. If you are looking for a big pin with a flat face (3/8 pin), well Barry will not be making any more. The Tascarella team will build them with a 3/8 pin but their signature hit with their known feedback is with the piloted joint.
As for the best investment, you are safe with either cue you mentioned when you make a purchase at current market condition as items for sale whether they are hobbies or collectables are just not bringing in the type of returns that they brought before the downward spiral of the financial market and home industry. But in the meantime, I do own some Szamboti's and some Tascarella's - all keepers and all monster players. Both are making some beautiful cues lately and the way they play is just better with each year that passes.
Good luck with your final decision.
