First off you choose a cue based on the way it hits or plays not on the way it looks. I have seen some beautiful cues that hit like shit. Choose your girlfriend or boyfriend on the way they look choose your cue on the way it plays . I have an Adrian Begara that looks somewhat like a bar cue in appearance meaning very plain wood but it’s probably the best hitting cue of the 25 he made. Finally you have to look at any cue as an investment; meaning cheap cues play like cheap cues. So the question then becomes how much should I spend and the answer to that is how much am I going to play; if your only playing once a month then it doesn’t matter go for the less expensive cue but if your playing once a week spend a little more than you think you can afford; your game will improve faster and you will enjoy yourself more.
@@robertbyington7715 but what is "a little more"? I mean I won't know how a cue feels to me until I get it and start shooting with it and if I just spent $100 on one and I end up not liking it then what?
I just recently bought a new cue and, for me, the most important feature of the cue was not the 3 you mentioned but rather how it felt in my hands and when make a stroke. I noticed that the different cues I tried all seemed to 'balance' at a different place or, said differently, the balance of the cue when holding and shooting was noticeably different from cue to cue - I bought the one that felt the most comfortable to me. Mostly, what I was trying to find was a cue that I actually noticed the least when holding and shooting so that I had one less thing talking to me from the back of my semi-empty head. :)
Brutally honest ;-). I like what you said about wanting to be unique. I started not that long ago with a “no name” cue locally made in Thailand, and I was playing ok with it. After some time, I upgraded to a McDermott Star cue, it felt even better! Later I upgraded the cue with a Kamui Black Super soft tip and whao what a difference. A couple of days ago I bought a Cuetec Cynergy Carbon fibre. Unfortunately, I have only shot a couple of shots so far. Living in Thailand has the downside of still being under Covid restrictions and all pool halls are closed.
I've been playing with a Players Sneaky Pete cue since 2003... Love this cue... Great advice on cue selection for other players... I tell my players pretty much the same thing...
Get a cheap Action cue with a custom taper and a tip of your choosing. 70 bucks at the most and you are set. If I could, I would lug around a one piece cue.
Well done, Sir. One thing I particularly agree with is looks, while expensive, do matter, but just a little. I had several entry level cues that got me through learning the game, none flashy and none costing over $120 but all shot very well. When I decided it was time to upgrade, several player let me try theirs, and I decided on Joss. It just fit me well. I bought the JOS04, this was back in the late 90's and you can still find it, but I think they have stopped making it. It had a traditional look, but fine craftsmanship and style. That said, over 20 years later, it is still my main cue, albeit with many refinishings and tip changes, and eventually a shaft replacement. Please do the next step and do "Choosing your first intermediate level cue." Love to hear about the options for tip, shaft, deflection, etc. You are doing the pool community a big favor, keep it up!
That last statement about ultimately paying for uniqueness in your cue resonated with me. I just bought my first cue after joining a league (Viking) and I'll have to keep that in mind whenever I do decide to upgrade. Appreciate the info.
I was just thinking about getting a cue and starting to play again so I looked up a video on RUclips for research and here you are!!!! I couldn’t have forms better advice❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
The most perfect cue for you can only do one thing, not take anything away from your game. Thinking cues improve your game is like thinking cues are magical. The cue builder should get the trophy for building a magical cue that won't let you lose.
My McDermott will be 36 years old this Christmas. With a hard tip it's also my break stick. It's worth 5 times its original value. I've never needed another stick and I probably never will. 😎
I still have my first cue, and it’s a McDermott. I’ve had it for about 13 years now. Played with it constantly for about 3 years. The shaft is still straight. The bumper fell apart though. And there are defects near the collars, not sure what the correct term is, kinda like air bubbles in the finish. Other than those the cue is still playable.
Hey Chris, I use my Meucci since 1987 and just changed the shafts over time. It is a heavy, glossy, strange green one but since it is my first and only Cue, I still love it and I am used to it. I've looked for other Cues but the price for the Cues I like are just to damn high 😁And as you impressively showed: The Cue is my least problem 😄 Thanks for keeping up making videos even in times of the big social break.
I still have my Meucci from the late eighties. My pops bought it for me as a birthday present. I later turned around and bought him a Sneaky Pete because that was his nickname.
B W i have a meucci very old special edition XI the red orange version and red dot shaft , id advice not to get the black dot shaft its whippy but only in one direction and deflects according to how its rotated and has very bad press ...however the new pro shaft is very good and i believe i will upgrade to that ...jason shaw uses it and also has great reviews.
@@inquisitor4635 - I have a Meucci, but I like my Cuetec Avid a little better. I can see why some might like the Meucci better. For me, a stick won't help much. I just need to do the drills.
I was debating between a Lucky, the Viking Valhalla, and a Players Sneaky Pete for my first cue ever. I literally just ordered the Sneaky Pete. It was a little over $130 after tax with free shipping, which isn't too bad in my book.
I also recommend shooting shots with the cue frozen to the rail where you are forced to shoot top. If the balance is aft if your rear grip you have a much higher tendency to miscue. Bought a JP cue for my wife. Very nice cue that shot very well for her until she was practicing rail shots. She could not keep the tip from popping up off the top of the ball. Removed the weight in the butt and it made a huge difference at 16oz. She can shoot well with my 19.5oz Lucasi but not her 19 oz. JP.
I feel like there are 3 important things to a cue: 1) is it warped? this can make even good players seem bad. 2) the shape and feel of the tip. This makes cue ball movement easier. And, lastly 3) the look!
For a long time, I used to fall into the glitz and glamor trap. I'd see friends who used custom cues, and I wanted one. I'd dream of the day when I would order a custom cue for a couple of grand. Over time, though, I started to realize something important - "It's not the Arrow, it's the Indian." I started caring less and less about what other people thought, and focused on learning the game. That was 20 years ago. Now I play with an old Mali cue I paid about $60 bucks for. It's not flashy, but it feels good in my hands. My advice for new players? Try as many different cues as you can, and go with what feels right to you.
The old saying in shooting..."it ain't the rifle ya worry about...its the guy behind the rifle" I shoot Trap n it's amazing how some people think if they buy a $10,000 Kreighoff it'll make them a better shooter. An $1100 CZ will out-shoot it if it fits you right...I've done it! I'm just getting back into pool again n love ur videos! Starting with Viking this time, so far so sweet...to me its more about getting in reps on the table! Please keep the vids coming!
Play on a table with 5 inch pockets and the cue makes little difference. hehehe I'm still using the Meucci I bought some 30 years ago. It's a players stroke, not the cue. Good player can grab a house cue with a decent tip and still shoot lights out. For a players first cue? Don't buy a 30 dollar cue at Walmart. Spend a couple of hundred bucks on a decent name brand production cue and you'll be fine.
I think being able to hit a few racks with a cue before you buy is the best way. We are very lucky we have a two billiard shops local, that let you test before you buy . But it's like any other purchase you make... Car, electronic device it's what's right for you and what your looking for...
A comment from Taiwan. Very interesting video! I've played over 20 different prices cues over last 3years. What I think that pool cue really influence a man's stroke is its weight, balance and thick/thin. This makes different when you're doing Low shots and drag shots. But most important is that do you do your stroke straight...... Otherwise you won't play well with any cues including those Southwest and Gina etc.......
You hit the nail on the head with the last comments you were making. I did the exact same when my friend let me hit his 300 dollar lucasi, comparing it to my first cue which was an action cue I knew I had to get another nicer cue. And of course I had my mind set on a lucasi cue and on a different style so they wouldn’t look the same. I went with a 650 dollar lucasi with nice inlays 🤦🏽♂️
What I get from this video: It actually does not matter which cue you buy, they're all the same. As long as you like the looks of it an can afford it, you're good.
Man I can't believe how similar our views on recommending a cue for entry level players are. My very first two piece cue I bought brand new was Player. My second was the blue Viking that you saw. And as you said, I just kept upgrading from there. I bought a Meucci Originals, a Leonard Bludworth, an Adams Balabushka, which is still one of the best all around playing cues I've ever owned. Then I bought my custom made Jacobys. To quote you, it is "a journey through this game" . Looking forward to next pool talk video.
I shoot with a players hxt 99 and I picked it up it was about $175 in that range and it definitely made a difference in my game I agree with your recommendation for players cues overall they have a great range of price points and you can't get hurt getting in wherever you decide
I have a perchauer pro series cue, and I absolutely love it. I havent really used very many higher end cues. Only 2 brands I've used consistently are perchauer and McDermott. I've used both a jp customs and pro series for perchauer. I ultimately try to just get a cue with low deflection, and a decent enough tip.
I'm a newbie so this might sound stupid... I noticed a sound difference bigtime between the 20$ and the 2nd cue (like) 700$ I think... In my mind that sound difference translates into less shock and vibrations moving up the cue into your hand, which would equal less dispersion and side action... I'm sure there is a price point where you get those good qualities without paying the price for a firearm...What's a good value price for a cue where you get those "feel" qualities without breaking the bank?....Another guess from me is sowhere around 150$- to 250$?? Does that sound right to you long time pool players?
I agree with your guess. A good starting cue would be between $100 - $300 and could last you a long time, but as I mentioned at the end of the video as you run across newer cues you'll eventually have the want to upgrade.
@Lil' Chris Sounds about right.. I am that way when I get into a new thing and want to learn everything about it..You start off trying to figure out what's good and what's bad. Chase that wheel for a little while, then once you start to master it and realize what's really important you start coming back to what works for you. Thanks for the reply!
Given it still does the job, I think I'll just stick with the good ol' $20 Amazon cue; not much point splashing out on something that will ultimately only be marginally better in relation to the pricetag. I'd personally rather have the $700-2000 going towards a better table.
My first cue was a Meucci Originals 2 point... I bought it in 1984 used for $80.00. I played with it for many years, wish I still had it. Currently I only buy custom cues... right now my main cue is a Paul Fanelli... previously my main cue was a Tim Scruggs. I don't want to say how much I paid for them.
I just discover you. First of all You play so well that it's look easy and predictable at each shot. So it said, i have a Falcon since last month. Before i had Meucci (from 1990 to 2010), Mc Dermott (i won that cue because my bought of snap-on tools: The case with the Snap-on cue edition are a nice 900$ value. I keep the kit as collectionable since 2009 if i'm remember well) A nice Lucasi with predator Z2 (the duo was like 1000$ but it was not my best cue at all. Too much stiffness or like you say-Zero deflection so when i tried to put some effect "a masse" it not responding well). I look to a used Schon (it is very expansive and my play will not improve with any new cue). My choice is made by "how i feel the cue". How it balance in my right hand (iT's not just the weight of the cue. It's how the repartition of the weight is buit). I had one Player cue by the time (a used one that i paid like 50$ And is value on second hand market was 250-280$_So i sale it 200$ to someone in the league i played. A making fast 150$ Lol) I like my new Falcon. It cost me 300$. But it's not a cheap cue. Not at all. I run table (not like you...) and i have fun. I'm going old, so i would love to play another 10-15year you know ; ) To talk you sincerly: That Player cue i had was not my kind of cue. The balance was all at the buttom end. By the way, i used to play with a Meucci (with good deflection) So it's a personnal choice at the end of the day. Thank you for the video, and keep going Chris! I'll see you in other video bye!
I would recommend McDermott as first cue. You can’t go wrong with G or GS series. Stay around 300 bucks or move to 400 if you want some etra inlays. Keep it simple with a maple shaft. Joss would be my second choice - today maybe my first. Otherwise a Sneaky Pete if you want to kick ass 😁
Great Video ...I play with a Meucci cue with a Meucci carbon fiber shaft and I love it ....I’m a skill level 4 in 8 and 9 ball ...your videos help me a lot and it improved my game...thanks keep up the good work....
My uniqueness is being able to hit most of my shots with house cues that sound like rainsticks at the local dives 😂 maybe its stunted my growth as a player never having a cue of my own, but i play with friends for fun not money and enjoy the progress i make in ball spin setups and defensive play, would be cool to have one of those carbon fiber shaft joints one day though those things look slick
Thanks Sharivari! It's good to see that you're feeling better and producing content again! The cue select idea was mimicking the first "Street Fighter 2" video game.
I agree S I was amazed at how solid and smooth his stroke was especially considering the length of his bridge; but he has an effortless consistent hit on the ball which you could hear better than you could see.
LET ME BE CLEAR HERE. No stick will make you a better player no matter what anyone says. FIRST - LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE GAME! Just about everyone who ever starts playing pool picked up a stick & tried hitting the balls without ever learning the very basics. Sure. Some people will have a natural ability but for the majority of them, it's a game of hits & misses. Imagine playing a board game without knowing the way the pieces are suppose to move. Choosing a stick comes way later & should be based on what feels right in your own hand. The weights of many sticks today can be adjusted. Different shafts made of exotic materials can be purchased & tips can be swapped. Do you want to make a statement with your stick or your playing ability? Chris. You demonstrated my point perfectly with the 4 runouts using 4 different sticks. I bet you could do it with a broomstick too! Be well, Al-Fu
I still have my McDermott Jump/break cue I got 25 years ago, as well as my case and my custom (but simple) playing cue. I guess I would still like a custom designed cue like Black Bear or Vollmer with a black butt (maybe souple of silver inlays) and black 6-8 flames/points on top of light/maple frint, with leather band. Nothing special 🤓
Im looking at cues on ebay, because i live in ireland and it gives you the delivery cost and import charges before you buy it. I want a cue that is going to last me a long time. My dream cue is a predator sotka-2, but i cant find it on ebay anymore. So im now looking at a predator 25th anniversary cue. Which is a little more expense then the sotka-2, At 4k,but it looks just as good and comes with a revo, so i have no doubt it will play good. But I'll have to save a while before i can afford it. Hopefully by this time next year(and all this corona virus stuff passes) I have enough for a professional cue.
Enjoyable content and I certainly appreciate the effort however, I don’t think you address the question at all. I still don’t know what I should be looking for when I buy a cue
Yo! I realize I'm late to this video. And I'm not new to pool... more so returning and this video helped me make an easy decision, which is for me... the shaft. No pun intended. Needs to be a naturally non stick texture.... I got sweaty hands lol
I've hit with a snooker cue before. The diameter of the shaft is just too small for my liking. Pros and cons are just subjective as any snooker player would probably tell you all the great things about a snooker cue, whereas a pool player would say different.
Great video Chris your video game and tech references made me love your channel even that much more! I love computers, video games, and Pool I like your coding video as well keep up the great content!
I think that taper is the most important to choose, if we dont like taper than weight, tip, diameter or look change wont make it good no matter what we do. I think that paying more than $300 for production cue unless its a Mezz its waste of money, above $300 a custom sneaky pete from a good cue maker makes big difference.
You have some awesome vids and skill, and I was wondering if you could give some insight into how you aim your longer shots where the ob is 1/2 the distance between the qb and pocket for a visually impaired player? My vision is similar to what you showed when playing the ghost.
I'm primarily a ghost ball aimer. When my vision was imparied, by wearing the green suit for my "Playing The Ghost" video" I still relied on a ghost ball visual, but only as best as I possibly could.
The Jflowers or Konllen carbon fiber ques are very impressive for the money. It wasn't as perfect as a thousand dollar Lucasi, Predator or Cutek among others. The carbon shaft was almost perfectly straight but ever so slightly out of round. The Lucasi pinnacle was perfectly straight and round. So in the end you get what you pay for but for 300. Its unmatched in it's price range
Regarding choosing pool cues, I waited for you to inform me about pool cues relative to length, weight, etc. I have two boys, ages 7 and 8. Our adult cues are too long and big for their fingers. How should I go about choosing pool cues for them? Thank you.
There are pool cues that are made for children. Amazon: amzn.to/3dqnmuy Billiards.com: www.billiards.com/cues/children-and-juniors?gclid=CjwKCAjwgZuDBhBTEiwAXNofRDsL_Psc6gu2WsN-SpCAMsyeYq6o0zkawHwNetp0hppWN7e8am1AnxoClQQQAvD_BwE McDermott: www.mcdermottcue.com/youth_pool_cues.php Of course as they grow up, then you can look into a "standard" cue.
Great content on all your videos, Chris. Curious, what drove your decision to wear a glove or not wear a glove in this segment. Assuming shaft feel from cue to cue?
I just wanted to have a different look with each cue that I demonstrated and the glove that I wore for my Predator Blak 4-5 is the glove that I normally use for it. Plus, the colors all matched.
Great video. For those who are looking for a cheap cue. Can you share with us which amazon brand and model did you use in this video and share with us if you recommend it?
The amazon cue was part of this bundle: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075SV456T/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 I have all four of these cues and they just serve as house cues for guests.
Great video. Your break is really solid. Very good shooting. I hope it’s ok if I offer a brief critique. One thing I noticed that you do sometimes is that right before you take your shot, you lift your head slightly. I only recognize that because I used to do the same thing, and it used to throw my shots off sometimes. It wasn’t until I took lessons from a pro that he told me about it. My game really improved after I noticed what I was doing. You’re more solid than I was then but I figured I’d mention if it will help you improve. God bless.
Hi sir. I know how to play billiard but i want to become better. There are times i felt like am doing good but most of the time i feel like i cant drop a ball. I am very inconsistent and i want to learn more.
I did the same thing at a bar a long time ago and the dude I played against told me about it after the game. Said I would've beat him if it wasn't for that.
I actually took a shot of Pepto Bismol and drank a glass of milk before going out to try it. I almost didn't complete it as I had to shove the last wing in my mouth because the employee monitoring the contest said, "Just get it in your mouth before the time runs out and get it down and it counts". I almost gagged and had a "reversal of fortune", but I held it down! Looking back, I would probably suggest small quick bites that don't require a lot of chewing.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer I always get the boneless Blazin’ wings, but I don’t know how well I’d fare with regular ones; not to mention the fact that water isn’t allowed. 😢
I have a question, so i bought a 21oz cue on amazon for fairly cheap (35 ish bucks) and i often have trouble getting action on my draw shots. fast forward to me and my buddy going to the billiards shop and getting new tips put onto our cues, nothing crazy but the guy recommended some brand of medium hardness tips and we got the same one. When i use my buddy’s cue (which is a 19 oz rage rg130, which is like 100 bucks) i feel like i get much better action on my draw shots and more english in general. Does weight have anything to do with draw and english? Considering we have the same tip now i figured weight might be the only other factor
I wouldn't suspect the weight to really be the issue except it is easier to swing a lighter cue faster which is what you would want to get good action draw. This can still be done with a heavier cue as long as you're hitting as low and as fast as with a lighter cue.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer thanks for the reply chris, i absolutely love your channel! and btw i got some good practice in today and i have to say my stroke has improved and i’m getting the action that i was hoping for with my cue now!
What are your thoughts on the Cuetec Avid Era sneaky Pete cues VS the Players cues in the same price point? I’m looking to buy my first cue as I’ve gotten pretty serious about shooting pool over the last year or so.
Never hit with the Cuetec Avid so I have no thoughts on it. Having said that, if it's something that looks appealing to you and you can afford it, then go for it! At the end of the day, it's going to be something that YOU want and not something that someone tells you to buy.
Hello Chris, is there any issues using a carbon fiber shaft on a butt with a stainless joint. I see them use implex joints with ques that are carbon fiber shafts
The choose your player video game edit was very funny. I'm running on on a Cuesoul cue and its good for a novice like me. I'm mostly into snooker and its helped my pool game much better. What table brand is that?
Also noticed you dont mention cuetec much I've got the all carbon version and love it and use the metor break cue it's all about personal preference but what's your thoughts on cuetec
My table is an 8ft table. Designated break cues are good to have as they allow the tip on your shooting cue to last longer. I do have a break cue, I just didn't use it for this video.
@@gman5051 I prefer to play on 9ft tables, but my area primarily supports league play that's on 7ft tables. This is why I got an 8ft table, so I don't have to adjust much going between different sizes.
I'm new to your channel and enjoy content that you have to offer. What is the pool table size you are playing on and is it better to play on larger table as to playing on bar tables like valley?
Welcome to my channel! My table is an 8ft table and I do believe it is better to play on larger tables as it makes it easier to transition to smaller table.
Never heard of them or hit with them, so I wouldn't be able to give any thoughts. A quick Google show the price for one can range from $200+ - $1000+ which I would say would put them around a intermediate type of cue. I do believe you get what you pay for to which you would hope that the more it costs the more quality you get out of it, similar to how golf clubs are made and priced.
I'm just a beginner and browsing for a cue to buy. Honestly I feel more like a wizard looking for the right wand like in Harry Potter.
Hahaha couldn’t have said it better! 😂
Man been looking for a stick for like 3 months lol
LMAO
Same feeling!
But the internet said if I buy this $3,000 Southwest I'd shoot like Young Efren....
Well you'd better not believe a seller's saying......
Who has a Southwest for $3,000? That's a steal.
First off you choose a cue based on the way it hits or plays not on the way it looks. I have seen some beautiful cues that hit like shit. Choose your girlfriend or boyfriend on the way they look choose your cue on the way it plays . I have an Adrian Begara that looks somewhat like a bar cue in appearance meaning very plain wood but it’s probably the best hitting cue of the 25 he made.
Finally you have to look at any cue as an investment; meaning cheap cues play like cheap cues. So the question then becomes how much should I spend and the answer to that is how much am I going to play; if your only playing once a month then it doesn’t matter go for the less expensive cue but if your playing once a week spend a little more than you think you can afford; your game will improve faster and you will enjoy yourself more.
@@robertbyington7715 but what is "a little more"? I mean I won't know how a cue feels to me until I get it and start shooting with it and if I just spent $100 on one and I end up not liking it then what?
The only player that plays like Reyes is Reyes. The cues the pros buy from custom cue makers are not available to the general public trust me!!!
The standing like a street fighter while modeling the pool cues though 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I just recently bought a new cue and, for me, the most important feature of the cue was not the 3 you mentioned but rather how it felt in my hands and when make a stroke. I noticed that the different cues I tried all seemed to 'balance' at a different place or, said differently, the balance of the cue when holding and shooting was noticeably different from cue to cue - I bought the one that felt the most comfortable to me. Mostly, what I was trying to find was a cue that I actually noticed the least when holding and shooting so that I had one less thing talking to me from the back of my semi-empty head. :)
A cue is like a lightsaber. Get the one that feels the best for you but at the end of the day, it’s the wielder that really matters.
Literally me sometimes spinning provided cues like lightsabers right before I make a shot
Brutally honest ;-). I like what you said about wanting to be unique. I started not that long ago with a “no name” cue locally made in Thailand, and I was playing ok with it. After some time, I upgraded to a McDermott Star cue, it felt even better! Later I upgraded the cue with a Kamui Black Super soft tip and whao what a difference. A couple of days ago I bought a Cuetec Cynergy Carbon fibre. Unfortunately, I have only shot a couple of shots so far. Living in Thailand has the downside of still being under Covid restrictions and all pool halls are closed.
I second the vote for Players. Today's Players cue is much better quality than what they had 20 yrs ago.
I've been playing with a Players Sneaky Pete cue since 2003... Love this cue... Great advice on cue selection for other players... I tell my players pretty much the same thing...
Had the same, very good for bars.
I have to admit this is hell of a gambling/hustler cue. I would go for Meucci or Pechauer. Still on my radar 🤓
Just ordered the Sneaky Pete. Good to know that these cues last.
Get a cheap Action cue with a custom taper and a tip of your choosing. 70 bucks at the most and you are set. If I could, I would lug around a one piece cue.
Well done, Sir. One thing I particularly agree with is looks, while expensive, do matter, but just a little. I had several entry level cues that got me through learning the game, none flashy and none costing over $120 but all shot very well. When I decided it was time to upgrade, several player let me try theirs, and I decided on Joss. It just fit me well. I bought the JOS04, this was back in the late 90's and you can still find it, but I think they have stopped making it. It had a traditional look, but fine craftsmanship and style. That said, over 20 years later, it is still my main cue, albeit with many refinishings and tip changes, and eventually a shaft replacement. Please do the next step and do "Choosing your first intermediate level cue." Love to hear about the options for tip, shaft, deflection, etc. You are doing the pool community a big favor, keep it up!
That last statement about ultimately paying for uniqueness in your cue resonated with me. I just bought my first cue after joining a league (Viking) and I'll have to keep that in mind whenever I do decide to upgrade. Appreciate the info.
I just ordered my first players cue from Seybert's and cannot wait for it to arrive. Thanks for all the informational videos.
Steve C I buy a lot of stuff from Seyberts!
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer I usually shop on ozonebilliards or seyberts
Some of the best cue buying advice on the innerwebs right here. Chun-Li would be proud!
I was just thinking about getting a cue and starting to play again so I looked up a video on RUclips for research and here you are!!!! I couldn’t have forms better advice❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
The most perfect cue for you can only do one thing, not take anything away from your game. Thinking cues improve your game is like thinking cues are magical. The cue builder should get the trophy for building a magical cue that won't let you lose.
My McDermott will be 36 years old this Christmas. With a hard tip it's also my break stick. It's worth 5 times its original value. I've never needed another stick and I probably never will. 😎
I still have my first cue, and it’s a McDermott. I’ve had it for about 13 years now. Played with it constantly for about 3 years. The shaft is still straight. The bumper fell apart though. And there are defects near the collars, not sure what the correct term is, kinda like air bubbles in the finish. Other than those the cue is still playable.
Hey Chris, I use my Meucci since 1987 and just changed the shafts over time. It is a heavy, glossy, strange green one but since it is my first and only Cue, I still love it and I am used to it. I've looked for other Cues but the price for the Cues I like are just to damn high 😁And as you impressively showed: The Cue is my least problem 😄
Thanks for keeping up making videos even in times of the big social break.
I still have my Meucci from the late eighties. My pops bought it for me as a birthday present. I later turned around and bought him a Sneaky Pete because that was his nickname.
B W i have a meucci very old special edition XI the red orange version and red dot shaft , id advice not to get the black dot shaft its whippy but only in one direction and deflects according to how its rotated and has very bad press ...however the new pro shaft is very good and i believe i will upgrade to that ...jason shaw uses it and also has great reviews.
I've been using and am happy with my old 95-4 European Series Meucci.
@@inquisitor4635 - I have a Meucci, but I like my Cuetec Avid a little better. I can see why some might like the Meucci better. For me, a stick won't help much. I just need to do the drills.
This street fighter idea is so wholesome XD. Nice video!
I was debating between a Lucky, the Viking Valhalla, and a Players Sneaky Pete for my first cue ever. I literally just ordered the Sneaky Pete. It was a little over $130 after tax with free shipping, which isn't too bad in my book.
I also recommend shooting shots with the cue frozen to the rail where you are forced to shoot top. If the balance is aft if your rear grip you have a much higher tendency to miscue. Bought a JP cue for my wife. Very nice cue that shot very well for her until she was practicing rail shots. She could not keep the tip from popping up off the top of the ball. Removed the weight in the butt and it made a huge difference at 16oz. She can shoot well with my 19.5oz Lucasi but not her 19 oz. JP.
I feel like there are 3 important things to a cue: 1) is it warped? this can make even good players seem bad. 2) the shape and feel of the tip. This makes cue ball movement easier. And, lastly 3) the look!
I didn't bother mentioning the tip because that can be changed, but all of your points are valid.
I like the street fighter style you chose to go with when you did a break and run with them😅
For a long time, I used to fall into the glitz and glamor trap. I'd see friends who used custom cues, and I wanted one. I'd dream of the day when I would order a custom cue for a couple of grand. Over time, though, I started to realize something important - "It's not the Arrow, it's the Indian." I started caring less and less about what other people thought, and focused on learning the game.
That was 20 years ago. Now I play with an old Mali cue I paid about $60 bucks for. It's not flashy, but it feels good in my hands.
My advice for new players? Try as many different cues as you can, and go with what feels right to you.
bushputz I agree 100%. A lot of the game is mental.
A pretty good beginner cue is lucky by McDermott. Nice cheap cue that hits great. And if I'm not mistaken, they come with a 3 year warranty.
The old saying in shooting..."it ain't the rifle ya worry about...its the guy behind the rifle"
I shoot Trap n it's amazing how some people think if they buy a $10,000 Kreighoff it'll make them a better shooter. An $1100 CZ will out-shoot it if it fits you right...I've done it! I'm just getting back into pool again n love ur videos! Starting with Viking this time, so far so sweet...to me its more about getting in reps on the table! Please keep the vids coming!
Play on a table with 5 inch pockets and the cue makes little difference. hehehe I'm still using the Meucci I bought some 30 years ago. It's a players stroke, not the cue. Good player can grab a house cue with a decent tip and still shoot lights out. For a players first cue? Don't buy a 30 dollar cue at Walmart. Spend a couple of hundred bucks on a decent name brand production cue and you'll be fine.
I think being able to hit a few racks with a cue before you buy is the best way. We are very lucky we have a two billiard shops local, that let you test before you buy . But it's like any other purchase you make... Car, electronic device it's what's right for you and what your looking for...
A comment from Taiwan. Very interesting video! I've played over 20 different prices cues over last 3years. What I think that pool cue really influence a man's stroke is its weight, balance and thick/thin. This makes different when you're doing Low shots and drag shots. But most important is that do you do your stroke straight...... Otherwise you won't play well with any cues including those Southwest and Gina etc.......
You hit the nail on the head with the last comments you were making. I did the exact same when my friend let me hit his 300 dollar lucasi, comparing it to my first cue which was an action cue I knew I had to get another nicer cue. And of course I had my mind set on a lucasi cue and on a different style so they wouldn’t look the same. I went with a 650 dollar lucasi with nice inlays 🤦🏽♂️
What I get from this video: It actually does not matter which cue you buy, they're all the same. As long as you like the looks of it an can afford it, you're good.
Absolutely perfect video on selecting a cue. Loved the animation lol.
Alright... Pretty solid video game style edit job there bud. 👌 I dig it
I like the video game skit Chris. You definitely got that right. Congrats on 50K btw.👍. Keep doing what your doing.
Man I can't believe how similar our views on recommending a cue for entry level players are. My very first two piece cue I bought brand new was Player. My second was the blue Viking that you saw. And as you said, I just kept upgrading from there. I bought a Meucci Originals, a Leonard Bludworth, an Adams Balabushka, which is still one of the best all around playing cues I've ever owned. Then I bought my custom made Jacobys. To quote you, it is "a journey through this game" . Looking forward to next pool talk video.
chris, i have a purple Viking A249and i love it!
I shoot with a players hxt 99 and I picked it up it was about $175 in that range and it definitely made a difference in my game I agree with your recommendation for players cues overall they have a great range of price points and you can't get hurt getting in wherever you decide
I have a perchauer pro series cue, and I absolutely love it. I havent really used very many higher end cues. Only 2 brands I've used consistently are perchauer and McDermott. I've used both a jp customs and pro series for perchauer. I ultimately try to just get a cue with low deflection, and a decent enough tip.
Thank you! I learned a lot from this! Do not over spend on a cue thinking it will necessary make you a better player! 😃How do you pick a length?
The length is typically 58”
29” for the butt of the cue
29” for the shaft
I'm a newbie so this might sound stupid... I noticed a sound difference bigtime between the 20$ and the 2nd cue (like) 700$ I think... In my mind that sound difference translates into less shock and vibrations moving up the cue into your hand, which would equal less dispersion and side action... I'm sure there is a price point where you get those good qualities without paying the price for a firearm...What's a good value price for a cue where you get those "feel" qualities without breaking the bank?....Another guess from me is sowhere around 150$- to 250$?? Does that sound right to you long time pool players?
I agree with your guess. A good starting cue would be between $100 - $300 and could last you a long time, but as I mentioned at the end of the video as you run across newer cues you'll eventually have the want to upgrade.
@Lil' Chris Sounds about right.. I am that way when I get into a new thing and want to learn everything about it..You start off trying to figure out what's good and what's bad. Chase that wheel for a little while, then once you start to master it and realize what's really important you start coming back to what works for you. Thanks for the reply!
Given it still does the job, I think I'll just stick with the good ol' $20 Amazon cue; not much point splashing out on something that will ultimately only be marginally better in relation to the pricetag. I'd personally rather have the $700-2000 going towards a better table.
I got a gse for like 55 and it is actually really nice
Planning to buy the gse as well. Let me guess, yours is black?
@@wanangwanyirenda9593 yeah I have the matte and the shiny. Very decent for breaking. My buddy actually likes my 55$ cue over his 120$ cue
My first cue was a Meucci Originals 2 point... I bought it in 1984 used for $80.00. I played with it for many years, wish I still had it. Currently I only buy custom cues... right now my main cue is a Paul Fanelli... previously my main cue was a Tim Scruggs. I don't want to say how much I paid for them.
I just discover you. First of all You play so well that it's look easy and predictable at each shot.
So it said, i have a Falcon since last month.
Before i had Meucci (from 1990 to 2010), Mc Dermott (i won that cue because my bought of snap-on tools: The case with the Snap-on cue edition are a nice 900$ value. I keep the kit as collectionable since 2009 if i'm remember well) A nice Lucasi with predator Z2 (the duo was like 1000$ but it was not my best cue at all. Too much stiffness or like you say-Zero deflection so when i tried to put some effect "a masse" it not responding well).
I look to a used Schon (it is very expansive and my play will not improve with any new cue).
My choice is made by "how i feel the cue". How it balance in my right hand (iT's not just the weight of the cue. It's how the repartition of the weight is buit).
I had one Player cue by the time (a used one that i paid like 50$ And is value on second hand market was 250-280$_So i sale it 200$ to someone in the league i played. A making fast 150$ Lol)
I like my new Falcon. It cost me 300$. But it's not a cheap cue. Not at all. I run table (not like you...) and i have fun.
I'm going old, so i would love to play another 10-15year you know ; )
To talk you sincerly: That Player cue i had was not my kind of cue. The balance was all at the buttom end.
By the way, i used to play with a Meucci (with good deflection) So it's a personnal choice at the end of the day.
Thank you for the video, and keep going Chris! I'll see you in other video bye!
I would recommend McDermott as first cue. You can’t go wrong with G or GS series. Stay around 300 bucks or move to 400 if you want some etra inlays. Keep it simple with a maple shaft. Joss would be my second choice - today maybe my first. Otherwise a Sneaky Pete if you want to kick ass 😁
Great Video ...I play with a Meucci cue with a Meucci carbon fiber shaft and I love it ....I’m a skill level 4 in 8 and 9 ball ...your videos help me a lot and it improved my game...thanks keep up the good work....
My uniqueness is being able to hit most of my shots with house cues that sound like rainsticks at the local dives 😂 maybe its stunted my growth as a player never having a cue of my own, but i play with friends for fun not money and enjoy the progress i make in ball spin setups and defensive play, would be cool to have one of those carbon fiber shaft joints one day though those things look slick
Creative idea with the edit. Is this from Super Street Fighter? Btw: You have a very solid and straight stroke, fun to watch.
Thanks Sharivari! It's good to see that you're feeling better and producing content again! The cue select idea was mimicking the first "Street Fighter 2" video game.
I agree S I was amazed at how solid and smooth his stroke was especially considering the length of his bridge; but he has an effortless consistent hit on the ball which you could hear better than you could see.
I have a players hxt and love it! Was 217$ for the price you can’t beat it! it plays like a 400+$ que imo
LET ME BE CLEAR HERE. No stick will make you a better player no matter what anyone says. FIRST - LEARN HOW TO PLAY THE GAME! Just about everyone who ever starts playing pool picked up a stick & tried hitting the balls without ever learning the very basics. Sure. Some people will have a natural ability but for the majority of them, it's a game of hits & misses. Imagine playing a board game without knowing the way the pieces are suppose to move. Choosing a stick comes way later & should be based on what feels right in your own hand. The weights of many sticks today can be adjusted. Different shafts made of exotic materials can be purchased & tips can be swapped. Do you want to make a statement with your stick or your playing ability? Chris. You demonstrated my point perfectly with the 4 runouts using 4 different sticks. I bet you could do it with a broomstick too!
Be well,
Al-Fu
Great content !
you're right about the 3 criterias in cue selection. nice pocketing !
I love the Street Fighter reference. Great job.
Awesome lol loved street fighter back in the day Chun lee or whatever her name was I slayed with her haha
Really - 3/4 of the video is you playing pool by yourself and a whole 3 minutes on cues?
This is one of my favorite pool channels, your content is great!
Wow, thanks!
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer What about McDermott are they any good?
I still have my McDermott Jump/break cue I got 25 years ago, as well as my case and my custom (but simple) playing cue. I guess I would still like a custom designed cue like Black Bear or Vollmer with a black butt (maybe souple of silver inlays) and black 6-8 flames/points on top of light/maple frint, with leather band. Nothing special 🤓
Im looking at cues on ebay, because i live in ireland and it gives you the delivery cost and import charges before you buy it. I want a cue that is going to last me a long time. My dream cue is a predator sotka-2, but i cant find it on ebay anymore. So im now looking at a predator 25th anniversary cue. Which is a little more expense then the sotka-2, At 4k,but it looks just as good and comes with a revo, so i have no doubt it will play good. But I'll have to save a while before i can afford it. Hopefully by this time next year(and all this corona virus stuff passes) I have enough for a professional cue.
Enjoyable content and I certainly appreciate the effort however, I don’t think you address the question at all. I still don’t know what I should be looking for when I buy a cue
Great video, one of the best first cue videos I have ever seen
Yo! I realize I'm late to this video. And I'm not new to pool... more so returning and this video helped me make an easy decision, which is for me... the shaft. No pun intended. Needs to be a naturally non stick texture.... I got sweaty hands lol
What do you all think of the predator iKon series? Are they worth the price? What cues compare to it in the same price range?
I own the Predator Ikon4-5 and it’s a great cue.
Hey Chris will do a video for your new cue? I’m so interested on 12.9 revo shaft. Can make a review for it?
Yup, I planning on that.
Lil' Chris will wait for it😉
Can you play with snooker cue? What are the pros and cons of using snooker cue for pool?
I've hit with a snooker cue before. The diameter of the shaft is just too small for my liking.
Pros and cons are just subjective as any snooker player would probably tell you all the great things about a snooker cue, whereas a pool player would say different.
Great video Chris your video game and tech references made me love your channel even that much more! I love computers, video games, and Pool I like your coding video as well keep up the great content!
I think that taper is the most important to choose, if we dont like taper than weight, tip, diameter or look change wont make it good no matter what we do. I think that paying more than $300 for production cue unless its a Mezz its waste of money, above $300 a custom sneaky pete from a good cue maker makes big difference.
You have some awesome vids and skill, and I was wondering if you could give some insight into how you aim your longer shots where the ob is 1/2 the distance between the qb and pocket for a visually impaired player? My vision is similar to what you showed when playing the ghost.
I'm primarily a ghost ball aimer. When my vision was imparied, by wearing the green suit for my "Playing The Ghost" video" I still relied on a ghost ball visual, but only as best as I possibly could.
All I care about is if it's got a good tip.
The Jflowers or Konllen carbon fiber ques are very impressive for the money. It wasn't as perfect as a thousand dollar Lucasi, Predator or Cutek among others. The carbon shaft was almost perfectly straight but ever so slightly out of round. The Lucasi pinnacle was perfectly straight and round. So in the end you get what you pay for but for 300. Its unmatched in it's price range
You have some really great and creative ideas. Love watching your videos. Hopefully the crazy dies down so we can see some more of your APA matches 👍🏻
Regarding choosing pool cues, I waited for you to inform me about pool cues relative to length, weight, etc. I have two boys, ages 7 and 8. Our adult cues are too long and big for their fingers. How should I go about choosing pool cues for them? Thank you.
There are pool cues that are made for children.
Amazon: amzn.to/3dqnmuy
Billiards.com: www.billiards.com/cues/children-and-juniors?gclid=CjwKCAjwgZuDBhBTEiwAXNofRDsL_Psc6gu2WsN-SpCAMsyeYq6o0zkawHwNetp0hppWN7e8am1AnxoClQQQAvD_BwE
McDermott: www.mcdermottcue.com/youth_pool_cues.php
Of course as they grow up, then you can look into a "standard" cue.
Fantastic video! How fun was that “skit”! Keep up the amazing work!
Dude that first break was rudiculous. Even I could've run out the table with that break
So what cue manufacturing brand would you suggest if I had say $300?
If you're wanting to try a carbon fiber shaft, have a look at JFlowers
jflowerscues.com/product-category/jflowers-cues/playing-cues/aspirant/
I’m mad he did the fighter bob with the cues lol 🤣
lol i caught this late, love the street fighter references
This was a highly creative video...... Thanks
How about fury? To be honest I don't really know about pool cue because I just know about snooker cue
I believe one of my players has a Fury cue and it hits good.
How do you keep ur hands smooth for the cue to glide nicely
Wearing a pool glove is the simplest solution
Great content on all your videos, Chris. Curious, what drove your decision to wear a glove or not wear a glove in this segment. Assuming shaft feel from cue to cue?
I just wanted to have a different look with each cue that I demonstrated and the glove that I wore for my Predator Blak 4-5 is the glove that I normally use for it. Plus, the colors all matched.
Great video. For those who are looking for a cheap cue. Can you share with us which amazon brand and model did you use in this video and share with us if you recommend it?
The amazon cue was part of this bundle:
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075SV456T/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have all four of these cues and they just serve as house cues for guests.
Thanks for answering man. I watch all your videos. Keep up the good work
As always, great advice.
Great video. Your break is really solid. Very good shooting. I hope it’s ok if I offer a brief critique. One thing I noticed that you do sometimes is that right before you take your shot, you lift your head slightly. I only recognize that because I used to do the same thing, and it used to throw my shots off sometimes. It wasn’t until I took lessons from a pro that he told me about it. My game really improved after I noticed what I was doing. You’re more solid than I was then but I figured I’d mention if it will help you improve. God bless.
Thanks! I'm aware of my head movement and have been working on it.
Hi sir. I know how to play billiard but i want to become better. There are times i felt like am doing good but most of the time i feel like i cant drop a ball. I am very inconsistent and i want to learn more.
I did the same thing at a bar a long time ago and the dude I played against told me about it after the game. Said I would've beat him if it wasn't for that.
As someone said “if you can’t shoot with any cue, yo can’t shoot we any cue”
This is awesome! Love the video game vibe
Great video! Very useful 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
You Win! - "Perfect"
I’ve actually been thinking about doing the Blazin’ challenge myself. Any tips?
I actually took a shot of Pepto Bismol and drank a glass of milk before going out to try it. I almost didn't complete it as I had to shove the last wing in my mouth because the employee monitoring the contest said, "Just get it in your mouth before the time runs out and get it down and it counts". I almost gagged and had a "reversal of fortune", but I held it down!
Looking back, I would probably suggest small quick bites that don't require a lot of chewing.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer I always get the boneless Blazin’ wings, but I don’t know how well I’d fare with regular ones; not to mention the fact that water isn’t allowed. 😢
I have a question, so i bought a 21oz cue on amazon for fairly cheap (35 ish bucks) and i often have trouble getting action on my draw shots. fast forward to me and my buddy going to the billiards shop and getting new tips put onto our cues, nothing crazy but the guy recommended some brand of medium hardness tips and we got the same one. When i use my buddy’s cue (which is a 19 oz rage rg130, which is like 100 bucks) i feel like i get much better action on my draw shots and more english in general. Does weight have anything to do with draw and english? Considering we have the same tip now i figured weight might be the only other factor
I wouldn't suspect the weight to really be the issue except it is easier to swing a lighter cue faster which is what you would want to get good action draw. This can still be done with a heavier cue as long as you're hitting as low and as fast as with a lighter cue.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer thanks for the reply chris, i absolutely love your channel! and btw i got some good practice in today and i have to say my stroke has improved and i’m getting the action that i was hoping for with my cue now!
What are your thoughts on the Cuetec Avid Era sneaky Pete cues VS the Players cues in the same price point? I’m looking to buy my first cue as I’ve gotten pretty serious about shooting pool over the last year or so.
Never hit with the Cuetec Avid so I have no thoughts on it. Having said that, if it's something that looks appealing to you and you can afford it, then go for it! At the end of the day, it's going to be something that YOU want and not something that someone tells you to buy.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer thanks for the reply. I ended up going with the McDermott G204.
Wow !!!
Hello Chris, is there any issues using a carbon fiber shaft on a butt with a stainless joint. I see them use implex joints with ques that are carbon fiber shafts
You got the break shot wired! 👍
Hey Chris how's that brand pure x is it good. Like players
Pure-X cues are by Players cues so they're pretty much one in the same, like how Poison cues are to Predator cues.
Yup👍
The choose your player video game edit was very funny. I'm running on on a Cuesoul cue and its good for a novice like me. I'm mostly into snooker and its helped my pool game much better. What table brand is that?
The table brand is Diamond
Mike Bender Smithsonian Edition #1 of 3 Custom Cue - $60,000.00 will it make me as good a player as you are?
Good God that's an expensive cue, but it doesn't hold up against this: www.mcdermottcue.com/mcdermott_intimidator.php
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer I saw that, but I didn't want to INTIMIDATE you. :)
Also noticed you dont mention cuetec much I've got the all carbon version and love it and use the metor break cue it's all about personal preference but what's your thoughts on cuetec
I've never shot with a CueTec before, so I can't really give an opinion on it.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer got ya the cynergy shoots good to me its really all on the shaft haha they look nice also
Lilchris is that a 7ft table in your casa ? Good shooting by the way
What’s your thought about having a designated cue for breaks ? You don’t use one ?
My table is an 8ft table. Designated break cues are good to have as they allow the tip on your shooting cue to last longer. I do have a break cue, I just didn't use it for this video.
Have to ask you one more thing about tables and then then I will stop , which size do you prefer to play on and why ? Thanks lilchris
@@gman5051 I prefer to play on 9ft tables, but my area primarily supports league play that's on 7ft tables. This is why I got an 8ft table, so I don't have to adjust much going between different sizes.
I'm new to your channel and enjoy content that you have to offer. What is the pool table size you are playing on and is it better to play on larger table as to playing on bar tables like valley?
Welcome to my channel! My table is an 8ft table and I do believe it is better to play on larger tables as it makes it easier to transition to smaller table.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer Thank you for your reply
Nice skit!
What are your thoughts on Eclat cues?
Never heard of them or hit with them, so I wouldn't be able to give any thoughts. A quick Google show the price for one can range from $200+ - $1000+ which I would say would put them around a intermediate type of cue.
I do believe you get what you pay for to which you would hope that the more it costs the more quality you get out of it, similar to how golf clubs are made and priced.
@@LilChrisPoolPlayer thank you for your answer! I really appreciate it!
Thanks 👍🏽