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Anatomy of a Pool Cue

Learning the anatomy of a pool cue is an important first step as familiarity with the proper lingo and parts of the pool cue will help when watching or reading training materials. As a beginner, a cue might just seem like a stick but there are many critical pieces that collectively create the performance of any particular cue.

Some of these pool cue parts can be changed to repair or improve the performance of your cue. Upgrading the cue tip, cue shaft or changing the pool cue wrap can change the way your cue plays and feels. As mentioned, learning the anatomy of a pool cue is the first step though.

Rather read than watch? Read about the parts of a pool cue below:

Hello and welcome to billiards basics brought to you by Ozone billiards. I'm BCA Recognized Instructor James Roberts. Today we're going to look at the pool cue its parts and functions so let's get to it.

The Pool Cue Tip

The tip is typically made of leather and can be soft medium or hard consistency can be solid or layered tip. Layered tips tend to keep their shape longer although they tend to be more expensive. The tip is the most important factor in determining your cue ball control. It's important to have proper curvature - typically the curvature of a nickel or a dime.

The Pool Cue Ferrule

Next we have the ferrule, which is typically phenolic or ivory or can even be wood. The ferrule provides a flat base in which to attach the tip. It also protects the shaft from splitting. 

The Pool Cue Shaft

Next is the shaft of the cue. We start with the joint and that's what attaches the shaft to the butt. It's typically phenolic or stainless steel - as you can see this one is. Stainless steel tends to be sturdier, but does not have the same feel as a phenolic joint.

The Pool Cue Forearm

The next portion of the cue is the forearm and this is where most of your decorative work is, either inlays or decals. Your more expensive cues tend to have inlays of ivory and various types of woods. This is where the majority of the cost of the cue is.

The Pool Cue Wrap

Next you have the wrap which is typically Irish linen, or it can be leather or there may be none at all. The purpose of the wrap is to absorb moisture from the grip hand.

 

The Pool Cue Butt Sleeve

Behind that you have the butt sleeve which may contain more decorative work and inlays. It is also on the inside hollow where weight bolts can be placed or removed to adjust the weight of the cue. The typical cue can weigh anywhere from 18 to 21 ounces.

The Pool Cue Butt Cap

Next we have the butt cap which is where you access the weight bolts and a rubber bumper on the end protects the bottom of the cue.

So there you have it the parts and functions of a 2-piece pool cue. If you don't have one you definitely should get one. It's a key part and consistently playing excellent pool. Thanks for joining us today. I'm James Roberts, until next time. From Ozone billiards keep playing in the zone.