Tables

• If you have a longer reach and want to maximise your cue power, go for a cue that’s at least 58.5 inches.
• If you have a shorter reach and prefer more control without overextending, a 57.5-inch cue may be a better fit.

Pool cues typically range from 18oz to 22oz. A good middle ground for most players is between 19oz and 20oz.

• Lighter cues (under 19oz) may feel too soft and lack feedback during shots.
• Heavier cues (over 20oz) can feel sluggish and reduce cue speed.

Your physical build also plays a role. Taller or more muscular players may naturally prefer slightly heavier cues for better balance and control.

The main difference is quality in materials, construction, and performance.

• Cheaper cues often feel hollow or tinny, use lower-grade tips and ferrules, and typically lack visible cue grain. They tend to offer less feedback during shots and wear out more quickly.
• Expensive cues, on the other hand, are made with premium materials and better craftsmanship.
  They provide improved feel, balance, and durability. With proper maintenance like re-tipping, sanding, and polishing, a high-quality cue can last a lifetime.

For beginners, it's important to start with a cue that offers good balance, control, and feel.

• Ultimate Pool’s NXT Gen Cue Range is ideal for younger players or those just starting out. These cues feature a slightly shorter length (57.5”) and tip sizes between 9.1mm and 9.5mm, helping new players develop technique with better cue feel.
• For adult beginners, the Ultimate Pool Challenger Cues are a great option. Similar in design to the NXT Gen range, they come in a standard 58.5” length, making them perfect for those starting out in local leagues or casual competitive play.

The choice between a one-piece and a two-piece cue depends on personal preference and practicality.

• One-piece cues offer solid
  construction and slightly better durability over time, as there are no joints to wear out.
  However, they can be difficult
  to transport, especially if you use
  public transport or travel often.
• Two-piece (¾ joint) cues are much easier to carry, and thanks to modern
  manufacturing, the feel and
  balance are nearly identical to one-piece cues. The main consideration is joint care. If the joint wears out, it can affect performance and potentially ruin the cue.

Ultimately, it comes down to how often you travel, how well you care for your cue, and your personal preference.

With today’s highly responsive balls and cloths, ultra-small tips are no longer necessary for effective play.

• For general play, a 9mm to 9.5mm tip is the most common and offers excellent control and versatility on modern tables.
• Break cues often use larger tips (10–11mm) to maximise power and contact surface.
• Only advanced or professional players might choose tips smaller than 9mm, seeking extreme precision and spin.

For most players, sticking with the 9–9.5mm range provides the best balance of control, spin, and consistency.

The main differences lie in the construction, tip size, and intended use:

• Snooker cues are built to handle larger, heavier balls,
  so they are typically made with stronger reinforcement.
  They often feature thicker shafts, larger tips and ferrules, and are made from denser woods like ash or maple to withstand the extra impact.
• Pool cues, on the other hand, are designed for lighter balls and smaller
  tables. They usually have a more streamlined design, with thinner tips and ferrules, allowing for greater precision and spin on the lighter cue ball.

Using a pool cue for snooker can lead to premature wear or damage, while a snooker cue may feel too bulky or unresponsive for pool.

Professional players use a wide range of cues, and there’s no single brand or type that dominates.

• Some pros use custom-made
  (bespoke) cues, tailored specifically
  to their preferences.
• Others stick with trusted brands or even continue using the same cue they started with, sometimes found in a local club during childhood.

For professionals, the cue is often described as an extension of their arm, so it's all about feel, balance, and familiarity. Rather than focusing on a brand name, pros choose cues that suit their individual style and give them confidence at the table.

Absolutely. A cue case is essential for protecting your cue from weather damage and physical wear.

Pool cues, while well-crafted, are vulnerable to temperature and moisture. Exposure to cold, heat,
or humidity can cause the cue to warp or crack, which is often irreversible. Moisture can also affect the adhesion of
tips and ferrules, potentially ruining the cue's performance.

A quality cue case helps protect against these elements and ensures your cue stays straight, dry, and in top condition. It’s a small investment that prolongs
the life of your cue significantly.

The main difference lies in the grain and feel of the wood:

• Ash cues have a more pronounced, grainy texture. This gives players extra tactile feedback when cueing, and some use the visible grain or chevron patterns as reference points for hand placement or aiming.
• Maple cues are generally smoother and less grainy, with more subtle chevron patterns. Many players prefer this for the slicker feel as the cue slides through their hand and under their chin.

Ultimately, the choice between ash and maple comes down to personal preference and how the cue feels during play.

There are two simple methods you can use without special tools:

Visual Inspection: Look down the length
of the cue and slowly rotate it. Any warping, bends, or bumps will become
noticeable as the cue turns.

Roll Test: Place the cue on a smooth, flat surface, like a pool table, and gently roll it. Watch for any wobbling or bumps, which indicate imperfections.

Because pool table cloths are smooth, they help reveal even slight irregularities. For more precise measurements, there are specialised tools and devices available online to check cue straightness.

Quality cues are available at a range of price points to suit different budgets:

• Entry-level cues, like the NXT Gen and Challenger ranges, start around £89.99 and offer great
  value for beginners.
• Mid-range options, such as Ultimate Pool’s Premium Cobra cues, are priced around £189.99 and provide enhanced quality and performance.
• At the high end, bespoke cues like those from John Parris can cost thousands of pounds, crafted to exact specifications and premium materials.

It’s always best to try out a cue first,
unless you already know your ideal length, weight, and feel. This helps you
find the cue that feels right for your game.