Best Pool Cues for Beginners

If you’re interested in pool, and want to improve your practice to be the best you can, it’s wise to consider getting your own pool cue.

Sometimes finding the right house cue can be difficult, as they vary in condition and weight. But, a positive is that they offer you a chance to handle a variety of cues. You can discover what styles you prefer.

Having your own pool cue to take with you means your skills will improve faster since it’s the same one in your hands every time you play.

Before we recommend our top choices for beginners, let’s cover some criteria to consider when choosing a pool cue.

What to Consider for a Beginner Pool Cue

Materials

  • Stick – Maple is a durable and easy option to find
  • Wrap – Linen or nylon makes the cue easier to grip

Tip

  • A medium to hard leather tip should be ideal

Price

  • $50 – $200 should be a reasonable range depending on how serious you are about pool. The goal is to get a nice, basic cue that you feel comfortable handling.

Length & Weight

  • If you are taller, a longer pool cue will likely feel more comfortable. Conversely, if you are shorter, a shorter pool cue may suit you better. The average length is 57 – 59 inches for most cues.
  • Cues usually weigh 18 – 21 ounces. For a beginner, we would recommend about 20 ounces.

It’s best if you can handle the cue in person. You’re welcome to stop by our Petaluma location to view our selection or give us a call at (707) 585-8992.

1.  MCDERMOTT LUCKY SERIES L16

The McDermott L16 pool cue features hard rock maple construction, Irish linen wrap, black paint and overlay points

Specifications:

  • Hard Rock Maple
  • Black paint
  • Overlay points
  • 3/8″-10 joint
  • Irish linen wrap

2.  VALHALLA VA237 POOL CUE

Behold Valhalla.  A premium import 2 piece pool cue created by the engineers at Viking.  Valhalla cues bring high-tech performance and killer style to a single, powerful tool.  All Valhalla cues come with a LIFETIME WARRANTY against manufacturing defects, including warpage.

Specifications:

  • Hard Rock Maple Forearm & Sleeve
  • Nylon Wrap
  • High Impact Ferrule
  • 5/16 x 18 Joint
  • Interchangeable Weight System
  • Warranty: Lifetime, including warpage

3.  CUETEC GRAPHITE 13-137 POOL CUE

This Black Graphite Cuetec Cue is a great playing cue that also offers an enhanced break. Black Graphite is bonded to Grade A North American Maple for warp, dent, ding, and scratch resistance.

Specifications:

  • 58″ Two Piece Cue
  • 13mm Deluxe hard brown leather tip
  • Polycarbonate ferrule
  • Professional taper with black graphite bonded to Maple
  • Rubberized textured wrap for sure grip
  • Durable rubber bumper

4.  MCDERMOTT DELUXE CUE KIT KIT3

Everything you need to play pool! Features a solid, hard-hitting cue from McDermott that breaks down for easy carrying.

Specifications:

  •  2 Piece Michigan Maple Cue
  • 2 pieces of chalk
  • Rule book
  •  Soft Case
  • Leather pool cue tip

You can check our online store to view our extensive inventory, as many of these pool cues come in different design configurations.

If you still aren’t sure which one will make a great beginner pool cue, give us a call at (707) 585-8992 or stop by. Our staff will be happy to provide personalized expert recommendations.