Ten Cue Buying Mistakes That Could Leave You with Buyer’s Remorse
Depending on how serious you’ve gotten with your pool game, the next step may be to purchase a pool cue. Your very first cue will be one that you’ll always remember and who knows? It could be the one you win your first tournament with. Depending on your pool goals, buying that new cue could be a major commitment. Whether you’re tired of that unpredictable “wall”abushka or loaner cue, or you’ve graduated from your entry-level starter cue, there’s a new pool cue out there with your name on it.
As a professional instructor and a player that has gone through a variety of equipment changes herself, I’ve always tried to steer my peers in the right direction when looking for a new cue that they’ll be using for the next few years, ideally. Besides, the more you enjoy your new cue, the more you’ll want to use it.
Here are ten common mistakes that may cause you to think twice about that cue you you’re considering:
1. Not setting a budget. Unless money is not an object for you, always start your search with a budget in mind. Arbitrarily shopping around for cues without deciding on a price point could lead to disappointment once you finally determine how much the cue costs and how much you’re prepared to spend.
2. Not doing your homework. The more knowledge you have on the various brands and options on the market, the more confident you’ll feel that you’re making the right decision. With all the technology these days behind the various cues and shafts, it’s important to understand what the difference is and ask as many questions as necessary to make the best choice for yourself.
3. Choosing the same cue your friend has. It’s one thing to consider a recommendation from a friend, but do your own research and narrow your search down to a few options before making a selection. Don’t just buy a cue because it’s the one your teammate swears by. What’s right for him may not be what’s right for you.
4. Not trying it out first. Obviously, when you’re purchasing a cue online, you won’t be able to try it first but make sure you’re buying from a reputable dealer who has a good return policy and stands behind their products. Whenever possible, if you know someone with the same cue you’re looking into, ask them if you can try it out.
5. Buying for looks. When you choose fashion over function, you may look good at the table, but that doesn’t guarantee you’ll be happy with the hit of the cue. Again, remember to do your homework and know all you need to know before making your purchase.
6. Being impatient. The best decisions are made with planning and consideration. A pool cue is not something you want to buy in a hurry, especially if you’re looking for one you want to hang on to for a while. The best cues come to those who wait.
7. Choosing the wrong weight. If you don’t know what weight you should pick, 18 or 19 ounces are the most popular. Playing with a cue that is too light or two heavy may cause you to have to work harder than necessary for certain shots. Many times the weight can be adjusted but a cue that is too heavy in the back may cause your follow through to veer off and up in the air due to the extra weight in the butt.
8. Not trying different wraps. One of the most important parts of the pool cue is the wrap and how it feels in your hand. If you have never tried out different types of wraps (Irish linen, leather, or wrapless), then you may be in for a surprise if you don’t even think about it. If you generally have clammy hands, then you want to make sure you choose a linen or leather wrap to help absorb the moisture.
9. Choosing a cue just because it’s free or sponsored. If you’re lucky enough to have a cue donated to you or are given one by a sponsor, don’t just shoot with it because it’s free. If your goal is to improve, you’ll want to make sure you’re happy with your equipment, even if you have to turn down a free cue and buy one for yourself.
10. Not buying at all. Buying a cue is making an investment in your game. There are many benefits to owning your own cue. Owning a cue that you picked out for yourself not only increases your confidence and interest in the game but it will also lead to more accuracy and success due to the predictability of using the same equipment each week.
Don’t miss out on the benefits of winning more games and bringing more consistency into your pool game. Let the staff at PoolDawg help you choose the right cue for you and make your time at the table even more enjoyable.