Pool Cue Basics


 
Pool Cue Maintenance
The game of pool is also known as pocket billiards. It involves a cue and a certain number of balls. The game is played on a table with six pockets. Using the cue, balls have to be pocketed in one of these pockets. There are many versions of the pool game involving a different number of balls. Some of the pool games are eight-ball, nine-ball, straight pool and pocket pool. Pool is similar to snooker and billiards but the table size is smaller in pool.
The cue is one of the most important pieces of pool equipment. Without a cue, a player will not be able to play the game. When the game originated years ago, players didn't use a pool cue, they used a mace instead. This was similar to a lightweight golf club. The mace posed its own set of problems and gradually the cue came into the picture. Until recently, the mace was used along side the cue. In the present scenario, pool cues are normally 57 inches long weighing 510 to 600 grams. One end of the cue is thick which is meant to be gripped. The other end is used for striking. The striking end tapers to a size of 0.4 to 0.55 inches and is called the ferrule. The ferrule is typically made of fibreglass, brass or composite material.
 
Selecting a Pool Cue
 
When learning the game of pool, the first piece of equipment to get would be a pool cue. The most important deciding factor is usually price. How much are you prepared to spend on a cue? There are cues for every level of player in every price range. You can spend as little as $50 up into the thousands for the cue alone. Weight is another important factor. When deciding on the cue you want, make sure it comes in a weight that suits you. You should not go for the one that is too heavy for you or else it will be difficult for you to manage. Avoid too light ones also for the same reason. Look at the length of the cue. Too long or too short ones for you can pose problems. Get the one that you can handle easily. To be very honest, there is no best or worst cue. It all depends upon the comfort level of the user.
 
Some of the various things that can be used in a pool game include bridges, pool cue tips, billiard gloves, pool cue chalk holders, slickers, cleaners and conditioners, holders and joint protectors.
 
Bridges are used in the game of pool to extend your range when you cannot reach across the table to make your shot. In such cases having a bridge helps to bridge the gap between the player and the ball. These kind of look like a set of brass knuckles that are placed on the pool table.
 
The tip of your cue is very important for consistent shots and reliable results. Pool cue tips are one of those important pieces of gear which help in times when the player needs to spin the ball for placement. Pool cue chalks are used after almost every shot that a player takes. The chalk helps the tip grip the cue ball and prevent miss-cues. Chalk holders are useful for keeping chalk handy. Since it is important to apply chalk on the tip after almost every shot, it would be a good idea to have a chalk holder. Applying chalk after every shot helps you get into the habit and not waiting until a miss-cue to re-apply it.
 
Billiard gloves are often overlooked but can prove to be quite useful, especially in warm rooms. They help deal with sweat, keeping your stroke smooth. Equipment such as cue cases, cleaners, conditioners, slickers, joint protectors and holders help keep your cue in great shape and ready for use.
 
Taking Care of a Pool Cue
 
To get maximum pleasure from every pool game it is important that you take good care of you pool cue. Following minor maintenance procedures will keep your cue performing well.
 
Avoid exposing the cue to extreme temperatures. Since, the cue is made of wood, extreme temperature changes may lead to warping of the cue. Try to seal the pores of a cue using undyed leather. This is sold at all leading billiard supply stores. Rub the leather up and down vigorously on the length of the cue to help seal and clean the shaft.
 
Invest in a good cue case. It is likely that your cue will eventually fall by accident. If not kept in a case, the cue may get damaged and lead to poor performance. Never use hand chalk on the tip. The oil and grime from your hand will get transferred on to the tip and the pores in the shaft.
 
Before and after every use, wipe your cue with a dry hand towel. This will help maintain a clean cue. Do not break or hit too hard or this will lead to mushrooming of the tip. It is also a good idea to replace your chalk when it gets a deep indentation.
 
To derive maximum pleasure from a game of pool, make sure that you invest in good quality pool cue stuff. At the same time, take care to maintain the gear you have so it lasts longer and you can enjoy the game every time.
 
Pool cue stuff carries all of the necessary pool equipment to ensure the best possible game play. Having bought good equipment is a good start but it's not enough, proper maintenance of that equipment will provide years of quality service.
 
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