Quote:
Originally Posted by MBAtarga
Yes, pool cues can cost much more - but they are worth it!
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LOL! Pool cues more complicated than "status" pens. The very ornate cues you usually see around a table in a bar are usually cheap tiawan imported cues, sold much the same as fake Rolex watches. All that bling is called "overlay" by the sellers, meaning "decal".
Then there is the real "bling"..lots of true inlay work using rare woods and precious materials, made by respected names. Many of these bought strictly for collections, but have the reputation of playing well.
Then there are "players" cues...also made by respected names, but usually simple in design, from "sneaky petes" to "titlist" style of four point full splice with outer veneer inlays and maybe a few decorative inlays of mother of pearl or other material.
Seeing what the top pros use is of no use. These guys all have sponsorship deals, will play with a cue made by whoever pays the most.
The REAL status in the pool world is in how well you play the game itself. Shane Van Boening is currently regarded as the best in the USA when it comes to rotation games (9 ball-10 ball) and 8 ball. He plays with a Cuetec, one of the cheapest production cues made. Of course, it has been "tweaked" to his taste.
In pool, "It's not the arrow, it's the Indian." That's true to a certain extent, but the good players do prefer to shoot with arrows that suit them.
Yes, a good playing cue usually begins around $400 for a production cue, more for a nice custom. I'm a mere "recreational banger", but play with a full splice titlist style cue made by Keith Josey out of a Mike Davis blank that cost me a hair over $1,000.