Finding the Perfect Cue:
Hello, snooker fans! If you’re an intermediate player looking to up your game, it’s time to explore the world of snooker cues.
In this article, we’ll help you find the perfect cue to enhance your performance by discussing the top snooker cues for intermediate players.
We’ll provide specific information on the price and the make of each cue to ensure you find the right fit for your needs. So let’s break out the cue chalk and get down to business!
Best snooker cue brands
There are several snooker brands that are well-known and respected in the snooker world. Here are some of the best snooker brands and why they are considered top choices:
Peradon is a British brand that has been making snooker cues since 1885. They are known for their high-quality cues, which are handcrafted from the finest woods and materials. Peradon cues are known for their balance, feel, and accuracy.
Riley is a well-known and respected snooker brand that has been making cues for over 100 years. They offer a range of cues at different price points, and their cues are known for their balance and playability.
BCE is another popular snooker brand that has been producing cues for over 30 years. They are known for their affordable, quality cues that are designed to provide a good balance and feel.
Parris Cues is a British brand that has been making snooker cues since 1984. They are known for their custom-made cues, which are handcrafted to the customer’s specifications. Parris cues are known for their balance, accuracy, and attention to detail.
John Parris is a cue maker who has been making cues since the 1980s. His cues are handcrafted from the finest woods and materials, and are known for their balance, feel, and accuracy. Parris cues are used by many professional snooker players.
Craftsman Cues is another British cue maker that produces handcrafted cues. They are known for their attention to detail and high-quality materials. However, they are not as well-known as some of the other top snooker brands.
Parris Cues and John Parris are related, but they are not the same. John Parris is a highly respected cue maker who has been making snooker cues since the 1980s. He is the founder and owner of Parris Cues, a British brand that is known for producing high-quality, handcrafted cues.
John Parris is the master cue maker at Parris Cues, and he personally oversees the production of each cue to ensure that it meets his high standards.
The average price of a medium-range snooker cue
| Brand | Average Price of Medium-Range Cue (£) |
|---|---|
| Peradon | £200-£300 |
| Riley | £100-£200 |
| BCE | £50-£100 |
| Parris Cues | £300-£500 |
| John Parris | £300-£500 |
| Craftsman Cues | £200-£300 |
What to Look for in a Snooker Cue
When selecting a snooker cue, consider the following factors:
Shaft Material: Look for cues with high-quality ash or maple shafts, which offer better performance and durability than cheaper alternatives.
Tip Size: Most snooker players prefer a tip size between 9mm and 10mm. A smaller tip provides more control and precision, while a larger tip offers more power and spin.
Joint Style: 3/4 jointed cues are favored by many snooker players for their enhanced cue balance and stability, while 2-piece cues are more portable and convenient for casual play.
Price: While it’s essential to invest in a high-quality cue, consider your budget when making your selection. There are plenty of excellent snooker cues available at various price points, so find one that suits both your needs and your wallet.
What is the difference between cheap and expensive snooker cues?
Materials: Expensive cues are typically made from higher-quality materials. The shaft of premium snooker cues is often made of well-seasoned hardwoods like ash or maple, which are selected for their straightness, strength, and consistency. The tips, ferrules, and joints are also made from superior materials for better performance. On the other hand, cheaper cues might be made from lower-quality wood or even composite materials.
Craftsmanship: High-end snooker cues are often handcrafted by experienced artisans. They are meticulously designed, balanced, and finished, ensuring a smooth surface, straightness, and excellent playability. Cheap cues, on the other hand, are typically mass-produced, possibly leading to flaws or inconsistencies.
Performance: Expensive snooker cues usually provide better performance. They offer more consistent play, better feel, and improved control. The quality of the materials and craftsmanship directly contributes to this. In contrast, cheaper cues may not offer the same level of precision or consistency.
Customization: Expensive cues often offer a higher degree of customization. You can select the type of wood, weight, length, tip size, and other characteristics to fit your specific playing style. This is generally not an option with cheaper, off-the-shelf models.
Durability: Given the superior materials and craftsmanship, expensive snooker cues are generally more durable and long-lasting. They’re designed to withstand the rigors of regular play without warping or wearing down quickly.
Aesthetics: Expensive cues are often more aesthetically pleasing, featuring intricate designs, inlays, and high-quality finishes. While this doesn’t affect gameplay, it can add to the overall enjoyment and pride of ownership.
The best medium-range snooker cues
| Brand | Model | Cost | Dimensions | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peradon | Peradon King 3/4 Jointed Snooker Cue | £279 | 57 inches, 18-19 oz | The classic choice used by many professional players; a hand-spliced ebony butt with traditional front splice design for good balance and grip. |
| Riley | Riley Ronnie O’Sullivan 2-Piece Signature | £179 | The classic choice used by many professional players; is a hand-spliced ebony butt with a traditional front splice design for good balance and grip. | High-quality cue designed with input from six-time world champion; black ebonised butt with four-point machine-spliced design for good control and grip. |
| BCE | BCE Mark Selby Powerglide Snooker Cue | £64.99 | 57 inches, 17-19 oz | Affordable and reliable cue; two-piece design with 9.5mm tip and black ash shaft for good balance and control. |
| Parris Cues | Parris Sovereign Snooker Cue | £450 | 58 inches, 17-19 oz | The classic choice used by many professional players; a hand-spliced ebony butt with a traditional front splice design for good balance and grip. |
| John Parris | John Parris Master Cue | £475 | 58 inches, 17-19 oz | Top-of-the-line cue handcrafted to perfection; hand-spliced ebony butt with intricate inlay work for a unique look and comfortable grip. |
| Craftsman Cues | Craftsman Mark Williams Signature Cue | £295 | 57 inches, 17-19 oz | High-quality cue designed with input from three-time world champion; hand-spliced ebony butt with four-point machine-spliced design for good control and grip. |
Note: The dimensions given are the average for snooker cues, and the weight range is suitable for intermediate players but may vary depending on personal preference.
Investing in the Right Snooker Cue for Your Game
By selecting a high-quality snooker cue tailored to your needs and skill level, you’ll be better equipped to enhance your performance and enjoyment of the game. Remember to keep practicing, learn from your fellow players, and always strive for improvement.
With the right cue in hand and a dedication to honing your skills, you’ll be sinking those long pots and executing perfect breaks in no time!
Want visual advice about snooker cues? Then check out this youtube video from Snooker Cue Advice.
