🎱 Buying Guide for Intermediate Players: Choosing a Higher-Performance Pool Cue

Once you’ve spent some time playing pool with a beginner cue, you may notice the limits of your equipment. Upgrading to a higher-performance cue can improve your accuracy, power, and overall game experience. This guide will help you make a smart choice for your next cue.

1. Why Upgrade from a Beginner Cue?

Beginner cues are designed for affordability and general use, but they often lack:

  • Consistent balance across shots

  • High-quality tips and ferrules for precise control

  • Durable materials that withstand frequent use

An intermediate cue will provide:

  • Better consistency and precision

  • Improved power transfer for stronger breaks

  • More comfort and control for spin and advanced shots

2. Cue Weight and Balance

Intermediate players may experiment with slightly different cue weights:

  • 18–20 oz → Ideal for controlled shots

  • 20–21 oz → Good for powerful breaks and smooth follow-through

Balance point:

  • The cue’s balance point (where it naturally pivots) affects accuracy.

  • For most players, the balance point is roughly 17–19 inches from the butt end.

  • Test cues to find one that feels natural when shooting.

3. Shaft Material and Technology

  • Maple shafts remain popular, but higher-quality maple offers tighter grain and smoother hits.

  • Low-deflection shafts reduce squirt (the sideways movement of the cue ball when using English), improving spin control.

  • Carbon fiber shafts are lightweight, extremely straight, and resistant to warping.

👉 Tip: Many intermediate players choose a low-deflection maple shaft for a balance of performance and affordability.

4. Cue Tip Selection

Intermediate players benefit from experimenting with tip size and hardness:

  • Tip diameter: 12–13 mm (pool), 9.5–10 mm (snooker)

  • Tip hardness: Medium or hard tips are preferred for predictable shots and longevity

  • Tip shape: Slightly rounded tips allow more accurate English (side spin)

A properly maintained tip can dramatically improve your control and spin.

5. Wraps and Grip

Intermediate players often focus on comfort and consistency:

  • Leather wraps → Comfortable and traditional

  • Irish linen wraps → Lightweight and durable, with less moisture absorption

  • No wrap → Smooth wood for those who prefer direct contact

Your grip choice affects both control and fatigue during long sessions.

6. Joint Type: One-Piece vs Two-Piece

  • Two-piece cues are standard for portability and convenience.

  • One-piece cues may feel more solid but are less practical to transport.

  • Pay attention to the joint type and feel—high-quality joints reduce wobble and improve power transfer.

7. Brand Considerations

Some reputable intermediate cue brands include:

  • Predator → Known for low-deflection shafts and modern tech

  • Mezz → Offers smooth shafts and professional-grade cues

  • Viking, Lucasi, McDermott → Excellent balance of quality and price

8. Budget Range

Intermediate cues generally range between $200–$500. You’re paying for:

  • Better shafts and ferrules

  • Improved balance and feel

  • Longer durability

9. Testing Before Buying

If possible, always test:

  • Cue weight and balance

  • Shaft straightness and tip responsiveness

  • Grip comfort and overall feel

Even subtle differences can dramatically affect your game.

10. Final Advice

For intermediate players, a good upgrade cue should have:

  • 19–20 oz weight

  • Low-deflection maple shaft

  • 12–13 mm medium tip

  • Comfortable leather or linen wrap

  • Price between $200–$400

This setup gives you improved accuracy, spin control, and durability without entering the expensive high-end market.

✅ Conclusion: Upgrading your cue at the intermediate stage allows you to practice more effectively and develop advanced skills. Focus on balance, shaft technology, and tip quality to get the most out of your new cue.