How To Choose A Snooker Cue

  • By: Rob
  • Date: April 23, 2023
  • Time to read: 6 min.
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When you’re starting out playing snooker, one of the most important purchases you’ll make is a cue. But with so many different types and brands available, how do you choose the right one for you? This guide will help make the process a little easier. So, how to choose a snooker cue that’s right for you and your level?

Choosing a snooker cue is dependent mainly on your skills and what makes you comfortable. Things you’ll need to consider when choosing a snooker cue are the length, weight, wood, tip size, and cue joints.

Primarily, a snooker cue that is right for you ultimately depends on you, the player, and what makes you feel comfortable. The type of wood used, the craftsmanship, and the attention to detail in making a cue are determinants of the quality of the cue stick. Let’s take a closer look at what are common characteristics of a snooker cue and which ones you should pick.

How To Choose A Snooker Cue

When it comes to playing snooker, having the right cue can make all the difference in your game. If you’re using a cue that’s not well suited to your playing style, you’re likely to miss shots and make mistakes. But if you choose the right cue, you’ll be able to play your best game and improve your chances of winning.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a snooker cue. Below we have listed some of the common differences between snooker cues.

Snooker cue Length

The length of a snooker cue is important because it affects your ability to control the cue ball. A cue that’s too short will make it difficult to reach the cue ball, while a cue that’s too long will make it difficult to control your shots. The ideal length for a snooker cue is between 140 and 150cm.

Most standard snooker cues are 57 or 58 inches which can usually be extended using a butt extension, which can be screwed into the butt of the cue for those hard-to-reach shots.

  • I would suggest a cue that you are comfortable. Between 57 – 59 inches would be a good starting point.

Snooker cue Weight

The weight of a snooker cue is also important because it affects your ability to control the cue ball. A cue that’s too light will make it difficult to generate power, while a cue that’s too heavy will make it difficult to control your shots. The ideal weight for a snooker cue is between 16 and 20 ounces.

Generally, the more skilled player will go for lighter weight while a lesser skilled player may opt for a slightly heavier cue at 18 or 20 oz.

A lighter cue will give you a lighter touch with more control but you’ll need more accuracy.

Heavier cues have a stronger touch but can give you more accuracy but they tend to not do as well on the more delicate shots.

  • If you are a newer player then perhaps consider a cue in the 17 – 18 oz range.

Snooker cue tip size

The size of the tip on your snooker cue is also important because it affects the amount of spin you can generate on the cue ball. A smaller tip will make it difficult to generate spin, while a larger tip will make it easier to generate spin. The ideal tip size for a snooker cue is between 9 and 11mm.

  • Using a snooker tip between 9.5mm to 10mm is pretty standard and I would suggest getting used to tips of this size.

The joint of the snooker cue

The joint of the snooker cue is also important because it affects the way the cue feels in your hand.

A three-quarter jointed cue will feel more solid in your hand.

Half-jointed cue will feel more flexible.

A three-quarter jointed cue is going to give you a little more control over your shot while the half-jointed cue is going to give you a bit more feel.

Single-piece cues are nice straight and produce a solid hit with some flexibility.

  • Personally, I feel the ideal joint for a snooker cue is three-quarters. I think it has a nicer contact and It feels solid. Another bonus is it’s better for transporting.

Snooker cue material

Wood is the traditional material for snooker cues, and it’s still the most popular choice today. Most snooker cues are made from ash wood, which is a darker wood than maple and gives a stiffer hit.

Maple is another option that is gaining in popularity. Maple is the standard for most pool cues.

  • Accuracy is the name of the game in Snooker and I feel Ashwood gives you that. Maple has more give in the wood which can lose some of its accuracy.

Choose a Snooker cue like this

If you are just starting out and don’t have your first cue yet then I can offer some direction on what to pick for your first snooker cue. Based on what was talked about, I would suggest, that your snooker cue should be:

  • Made from Ashwood
  • 57 inches in length
  • Tip size of 9.5mm
  • 3/4 joint Snooker cue
  • 18 oz weight

Best Snooker Cue for Beginners

If you are starting out in the game of snooker, you will need to choose a cue that is best suited for your level of play. There are many different types of cues available on the market, so it is important to do some research before making your purchase. Here are a few snooker cues to consider:

Cuesoul 3/4 jointed snooker cue

The CUESOUL 3/4 jointed snooker cue(Amazon Link) is one of the best snooker cues for beginners and even competitive players. It is made of ash, has an excellent balance, and has a nice grip that helps control the cue ball.

Mark Richard 3/4 piece snooker cue

Another good snooker cue for beginners and intermediates is the Mark Richard 3/4 piece 57 inches 60 inches(Amazon Link). It is handmade and made of ash.

It is perfectly straight and comes with a leatherette case, a mini-butt a telescopic extension.

Powerglide Eclipse Half Joint Snooker Cue

A good beginner-friendly snooker cue that’s well priced is the Powerglide Eclipse (Amazon link). It’s a half joined, ash snooker cue with a 10mm cue tip. It has a classic look and is smooth and shoots straight, perfect for your first snooker cue.

Does a good snooker cue make a difference

The answer to this question is a resounding yes! A good-quality snooker cue will definitely improve your game. It is important to choose a cue that feels comfortable in your hand and gives you the necessary control over the cue ball. Inferior quality cues can often be unpredictable, making it difficult to execute shots accurately.

An often overlooked point to having your own cue is consistency, knowing how your cue feels and plays is one key to improving. keeping with the same equipment and becoming familiar with your tools is an important aspect of improving.

I have given some pointers on what to look for when choosing a snooker cue, but to summerise once again what i think you should choose, pick a cue that:

  • Made from Ashwood
  • 57 inches in length
  • Tip size of 9.5mm
  • 3/4 joint Snooker cue
  • 18 oz weight

Conclusion

We looked at, how to choose a snooker cue. The above tips should put you in a good position to find a snooker cue that is perfect for your level and needs.

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Rob is an avid player and fan of all cue sports, particularly 8-ball, and snooker. He has competed in a few local 8-ball tournaments and although he is not a professional, he can compete with the best of them.

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