I don't know if a lot of the new stuff is due to improved technology or marketing to try to get you to buy something.
My feeling on laminated shafts is they were created both as marketing and a way to use the low grade wood that is being produced today. How else could you get someone to buy a after market shaft that is not from the original cue maker?
Same goes for laminated tips. What is the advantage over a pressed hard tip. Do they used better leather or is it another use for recycled processed leather? A good way to charge a ton for a product that may not have much advantage over other tips.
Ferrules are looking for a ivory substitute, which is good to stop elephant poaching.
Years ago when asbestos was banned the auto manufactures had to stop using it in break linings. The problem was the substitute didn't work as good as asbestos. They finally came up with one. The problem was it had all the characteristics and hazards as asbestos. If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck; it is a duck.
All the gimmicks won't make you a better player. If you have the skills you can beat anyone with a cue off the rack.
My feeling on laminated shafts is they were created both as marketing and a way to use the low grade wood that is being produced today. How else could you get someone to buy a after market shaft that is not from the original cue maker?
Same goes for laminated tips. What is the advantage over a pressed hard tip. Do they used better leather or is it another use for recycled processed leather? A good way to charge a ton for a product that may not have much advantage over other tips.
Ferrules are looking for a ivory substitute, which is good to stop elephant poaching.
Years ago when asbestos was banned the auto manufactures had to stop using it in break linings. The problem was the substitute didn't work as good as asbestos. They finally came up with one. The problem was it had all the characteristics and hazards as asbestos. If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like a duck; it is a duck.
All the gimmicks won't make you a better player. If you have the skills you can beat anyone with a cue off the rack.