Custom Made Pool Cues

There are three main parts to a custom cue, the butt, the shaft, and the tip. Despite being the smallest of the three, cue tips are probably the most important. They are the most important factor in determining how well the cue grabs the ball, how solid of a connection is made, and how easily spin can be applied without miscues. They come in varying degrees of hardness, different curvatures, and different thicknesses. Most are made from some type of leather or synthetic leather.

The most important factor to consider when choosing cue tips is their hardness. Softer tips tend to grab the ball better, hold chalk better, and limit miscues. It is also easier to learn to apply spin with these. However, they don’t hit the ball as solidly, so it can be harder to get speed when using them. Additionally, they don’t last as long. After they have been used for awhile, they begin to mushroom, which means that the center gets compressed and the sides bulge out. One example of such a tip is the Elk Master. Hard tips generally give a more solid hit, and the ball takes off more quickly when they are used. They also hold their shape better and last longer. On the flip side, chalk doesn’t stick to them as well, and miscues are more common with them. One example of a hard tip is the Water Buffalo. There are also tips at varying degrees of hardness between these two, such as the Triumph which is medium and the Triangle which is medium hard. In general, soft tips are better for beginners whereas many professionals prefer a harder tip. However, this is not an absolute.

The second factor that effects the performance of cue tips is their curvature, or their shape. Most tips are either dime or nickel shaped. Dime shaped tips are rounder and have a smaller radius, while nickel shaped tips are flatter, with a larger radius. The right one for you depends on such factors as where you hit the ball, what types of shots you are using the custom cue for, and how much spin you want to impart. Dime shaped tips make it easier to apply spin to the ball, and are better for those who hit the ball closer to the edge. Nickel shaped tips, on the other hand, are better for break or jump shots, where less spin is required, and for players who tend to hit the ball closer to the center. But as always, this is not a scientific fact. It is best to test several different tips to see which shape you like the best.

The last thing to consider when choosing cue tips for your custom cue is their construction. Some tips are made all in one piece, such as the Triangle and LePro. Others, such as the Moori and Talisman, are constructed from laminated layers. Laminated tips can cost quite a bit more, but they hold their shape better and provide a more consistent response.