FAQ about pool cues
Quick, straight answers to the questions we hear most often. For deeper dives on any topic, we link out to our full guides below.
Basics
What's the difference between a "billiard cue," "pool cue," and "cue stick"?
They're the same thing. "Cue" comes from queue. "Billiard cue" is more common outside the USA (especially the UK); in the US, people mostly say "pool cue" or "cue stick." "Billiards" in the US usually refers to the game itself rather than the equipment. (Fun fact: the mace — an older, flat-ended stick used to push the ball — predates both terms and worked very differently.)
What's the standard length of a pool cue?
Most cues run 57–59 inches, with the most common configuration being a 29" shaft and 29" butt for 58" total. Shorter cues (52–54") are available for kids, tight spaces, or as travel/jump cues.
What's the standard weight of a pool cue?
Most cues fall between 18–21 ounces, with 19 ounces being the single most common weight. Lighter cues (18–19 oz) suit finesse and draw shots; heavier cues (20–21 oz) give more stability on breaks. See our full Pool Cue Buying Guide for how to pick.
Can the weight of the cue be changed?
Most two piece cues can have their weight changed. Most have a weight bolt that can be unscrewed and swapped out for a lighter or heavier weight bolt. There is a limit to how much weight can be adjusted though.
What's the standard shaft diameter (tip size)?
13mm is the most common size on the cues we carry. Smaller tips (12–12.5mm) favor spin and precision; larger tips (13–14mm) are more forgiving for beginners.
Materials & Construction
Does the type of wood affect how a cue hits?
Yes, mostly through the shaft. Maple vs. ash (used on snooker cues) plays noticeably differently. Wood in the butt section matters less for feel — the shaft wood and the joint material (wood vs. metal) have the biggest effect on how a cue hits.
What's the difference between a $50 cue and a $500 cue?
Mostly straightness over time, fit and finish, vibration/"buzz," and shaft technology — not raw playability out of the box. We break this down in detail, including real examples at each price point, in The Difference Between a $50 and $500 Pool Cue.
Should I get a wood shaft or a carbon fiber shaft?
Wood gives a classic, "livelier" feel but is more sensitive to humidity and generally has more deflection. Carbon fiber is more stable, more consistent, and lower-deflection, but has a different — sometimes "crisper" or "clickier" — hit. Full comparison here: Pool Cue Shaft Comparison Guide.
How do I clean and maintain a carbon fiber pool cue shaft?
Unlike traditional maple, carbon fiber shafts are incredibly low maintenance and will not warp due to temperature swings or moisture. To clean the shaft, simply wipe it down with a soft, lint-free cloth. For deeper grime or oils, use a tiny amount of isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) on a microfiber towel. Crucial Rule: NEVER sand a carbon fiber shaft! Using sandpaper or abrasive wood papers will permanently destroy the protective micro-finish and composite structural layers.
Can I change the tip on a carbon fiber shaft like a regular cue?
Yes. Carbon fiber shafts feature standard pre-installed ferrules or vault plates that accept normal layered leather tips from premium brands like Kamui, Tiger, and Taom. The tip installation, shaping, and replacement process is identical to a standard maple cue. However, during the tipping or reshaping process, your cue repair technician must take extra care to ensure their lathe tools or trimming blades do not nick or cut into the carbon fiber walls directly below the ferrule line.
Do shafts and cues actually warp?
Yes — but a well-made, properly-aged cue is far less likely to, and proper care matters more than people expect. Common causes: hot cars, leaning cues against walls, humidity swings, and simply not aging the wood long enough before it's built. See our care tips in Pool Cue Quality and Price.
Joints & Shafts
How do I know what joint/pin my cue uses?
Unscrew the shaft and look at the pin — thread size and joint-face shape (flat vs. piloted) both matter, and brand alone isn't a reliable guide since many brands use multiple joint types across their lineup. Our full brand-by-brand reference is here: Pool Cue Joint Guide: Find Your Brand's Pin Type. If you're still not sure, send us a photo and we'll help you identify it.
Is a low-deflection shaft worth buying?
It won't make you a better player overnight — in fact, many players get temporarily worse while adjusting. Over time, most players find it improves accuracy, especially with side spin (English). Read our honest take, including our shaft buy-back policy if you decide it's not for you: High Tech, Low Deflection Shafts: Buy and Try?
Care & Maintenance
Should I clean chalk off my cue?
Yes — chalk residue is mildly abrasive and can stain the ferrule or make your shaft feel gritty over time. Our step-by-step method (Magic Eraser for the ferrule, burnishing for the shaft) is here: Should You Clean Chalk Off Your Cue, and How?
Can I sand my cue shaft?
On carbon fiber or fiberglass or the like: NO!
For wood shafts, please don't use regular sandpaper. If you want to do it yourself, never go coarser than 220 grit — burnishing (not sanding) is the safer way to keep a shaft smooth. Details in the article linked above.
How should I store my cue?
Always in a case when traveling or not in use, away from direct heat, humidity swings, and vehicles left in the sun. We include a free case with most cues for exactly this reason.
Buying
How much should I spend on my first cue?
For 2026, we'd say $85 minimum for real quality parts, with most players finding the best value between $250–$400. Full pricing breakdown by tier: Pool Cue Quality and Price.
What's your return policy?
Return Form: Return Link
Return Address: Cues Plus, 18121 E Hampden Ave, Unit C, Aurora, CO 80013
Standard Items
- Window: 6 months from delivery (New, un-engraved, complete).
- Refund: Item cost only. Shipping costs (including free shipping fees) are non-refundable.
- Requirements: Must include RMA number and prepaid postage.
Pool Cues
- Unchalked (6 Months): Full item refund. Scuffed or chalked tips do not qualify.
- Chalked (7-Day Trial): Exchange for store credit within 7 days of delivery (max 3 exchanges; RMA required). Must have under 3 hours use with zero damage or alterations (sanding, waxing, tip changes).
Defects: Full refund if verified. No refund for user abuse or neglect.
Have a question we didn't cover? Email us and we'll add it here.
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