I don't understand why this sort of discussion always has to end in an "Is it the Indian or the arrow?" kind of contest. It's obviously the Indian and the arrow, always has been, including the proverbial Indian himself (who used to make their own arrows, an art in itself). In over 25 years of playing, it happened to me only once that someone asked me to play a game of Straight Pool when I had no cue with me and in a pool hall where I didn't necessarily like the owner enough to ask him to lend me his cue. My opponent figured he'd accept the fact that I took a house cue from the wall as at least somewhat of a handicap (we played for drinks, so no big deal). I ran 62 with it in the first inning, and remember hating the hit and feel, and the sound of every single shot. My opponent conceded the game, saying he needed to be early for his night shift. I was glad since I really didn't feel comfortable shooting with a cue that, well, I didn't feel comfortable with. Isn't that the whole point of owning one's own? Now, there is no definition of what is going to make an individual feel at ease with. To me, whatever adds to the pleasure of playing itself is worth it. Take note, please: not all of us derive "fun" primarily from beating others! It's playing and studying, i.e. the love of the game itself that makes me feel like a winner. Plus, regarding those who've got the funds to experiment, maybe even collect nice custom cues, more power to them - all the better for the economy!
Greetings from Switzerland, David.
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„J'ai gâché vingt ans de mes plus belles années au billard. Si c'était à refaire, je recommencerais.“ – Roger Conti