Cue Guide

Seeking a new cue but unsure of what to choose?

Explore the Cue Guide and Ball Size information to gain insight into selecting the perfect cue from the wide range available, including options from both Peradon and other reputable brands, all crafted to high specifications and tailored to the seller’s requirements.

• Firstly, consider the intended use.
• If playing English Pool (with 2-inch balls and a 1 7/8-inch cue ball), opt for English pool cues with tip sizes ranging from 8mm to 10mm.
• For American Pool (featuring 2 1/4-inch balls with a cue ball of the same size), choose American pool cues with tip sizes ranging from 11.2mm to 13mm.

The seller recommends investing in a quality cue from the outset, as proper care can ensure its longevity. Additionally, consider factors such as whether preferring a one-piece, two-piece, or ¾ cue, depending on convenience and the cue sports played.

For American pool, quality cues are primarily available in two-piece configurations, with McDermott being the top recommendation.

Snooker Cues

Most snooker cues available are now standardized at 58 inches in length, weighing between 16.5 to 20 ounces. Tip sizes typically range from 9 to 10mm, with the most popular falling between 9.5mm to 10mm. Few players opt for sizes below 9mm due to potential loss of shaft strength and compromised cue performance. We also offer a custom cue range tailored to your specifications using the cue wizard. You can email us your specifications, and we’ll arrange free freight when purchasing from Sharp Snooker.

Most professional players prefer ¾ cues, featuring a joint around the 16-inch mark and a balance point between 17-18 inches from the butt, resulting in a slightly forward-balanced cue rather than a butt-heavy one.

The ¾ cue is more of a convenience factor in professional ranks, as one-piece and two-piece cues haven’t been prevalent since the early 80s. While the difference may seem negligible, some players find that the weight and shaft response are better in the ¾ and 1pc cues.

American Pool

In this game, 2 ¼ inch balls are used, significantly larger and heavier than snooker balls. Using a snooker or English Pool cue risks snapping the shaft or damaging the joints. For American Pool, a ferrule and tip diameter of at least 11.2mm to 13mm is required due to the larger ball size. American cues often feature a different type of ferrule, which initially may seem like a gimmick but significantly impacts play.

Various types of tapers are noticeable with these cues, and although they may appear whippy or prone to movement, they are integral to the cue action, which differs slightly from that of snooker.

Most American pool cues boast technical construction, featuring computer-matched cross-laminated shafts, inner cores, and possibly even self-potting buttons in the future (though that’s a secret). It’s advisable to select a cue based on aesthetics in this price range, with prices ranging from $500 to $1000. Beyond that, it’s largely decorative rather than indicative of a better cue, falling into the higher-end cue range.

While cues below this price point are available, dipping below $500 for a playing cue often results in noticeable differences in quality, so it’s advisable to aim for at least $300.

English Pool Cues

English pool cues are tailored for use with 2-inch object balls and a 1 7/8 cue ball, commonly played in Australia and England. These cues typically feature 8mm to 8.5 mm tips and are available in both three-quarter and three-piece configurations. The three-piece cue includes a center joint akin to a two-piece cue, with a quick release on the butt for maneuverability in tight spaces or specific shots.

The Peradon cues are among the best in the market, or consider a modified snooker cue with a tip size equal to or less than 9.5mm. These cues offer varying lengths, ranging from 55 inches to 57 inches.

• Consider acquiring a break cue for English pool to protect your primary playing cue and equip yourself with a proper break tip for effective pack breaks.

• These cues are also suitable for female snooker players, as a 57-inch pool cue can be customized to 55 inches with a ferrule, resulting in a tip size of around 9.5 – 10mm.