3 cues on the market for Pool & Snooker

People often ask what is the best cue for Pool and snooker? Well that depends on the ability of the
player, available budget, a persons height and if the player tends to play more pool than Snooker.
For example, for those players whom play more pool than snooker and are of average ability and
above then we would certainly be recommending an 8.5mm tip size. Typically the smaller the tip size
the greater spin a player can enact on the white ball. Though this does impost a increasing level of
difficulty in hitting the idle of the white ball and can on occasions cause inaccuracy in potting. Then a
a 3⁄4 jointed cue is perfect for those whom carry there cues to venues, pubs etc. Easy to carry and
transport. Fits nicely in the cupboard under the stairs and comes in on average budget of circa £130 –
£150.

For those more serious pool players they might want to consider a 1 piece 8.5mm cue that are
typically a more solid feel and hit. One piece cues tend to be budgeted £160 and upwards. And of
course with any one piece cue you will need a one piece case. I would often advise anyone looking to
take the game seriously to purchase a one piece case if possible. That gives you options in the future
to change and upgrade your cue as necessary. One piece cases also typically allow enough room to
hold 2 cues at once. For example a pool cue and a break cue.
Moving on to beginner Pool players of average standard and below. A 9.5mm tip size would be my
recommendation. Using a 9.5mm tip still allows ample of spin & side, while making a centre ball
strike much easier. I often compare this to the golf scenario of a cavity back club vs a blade. The
bigger the tip size the greater the margin for error and the much easier it is to be accurate without
throwing unwanted side onto the white ball making potting balls much easier.
Then we move on to those players who enjoy both pool and snooker. Well some of these hard core
players with unlimited budgets will opt for one cue for pool (8.5mm) and a separate cue for snooker
(9.5mm). The reason why players opt for a 9.5mm cue for snooker is that the snooker balls are
bigger. Therefore using a 9.5mm tip for snooker is much easier, more accurate and easier to control.
I personally would never attempt to play snooker with a tip size of 8.5mm I always opt for a cue that
is between 9mm and 9.5mm.

For those savvy budget conscious people amongst us there is a one cue solution for both games. That
would be a 1 piece 9.2mm cue. With this type of cue its possible to achieve both control and
accuracy. And with the one piece design the strike is more solid. Having one cue has many benefits
as not having to switch between cues brings greater consistency to your game. Ie you always using
the same tool for the same job you become familiar with it and play better. Theres also plenty of
space left in that case for accessories, extensions etc.
Finally weight and size simply comes down to a persons height and feel. A cue should roughly line up
shoulder height when standing vertically. Weight is always personnel preference. Go with what feels
good.

Final tip of the Day. For those whom play pool never repeatedly use your cue for breaking. This
imposes stresses not only on your cue but also on your. Imagine whacking something time after
time. Eventually it will break! For those more frequent players they should invest in a breaker cue
something light, tip size 14mm, that can get high impact through the ball and spread the pack. The
increased diameter on the breaker cue tips poses less force on the cue, whilst protecting your
playing cue from damage.

That’s all for now. And remember Just cue it!