What weight pool cue should I choose?

Most players find 19-20 oz ideal for all-around play. Heavier cues (20-21 oz) provide more power for breaking, while lighter cues (18-19 oz) offer more finesse and control. Beginners should start with 19-20 oz as it provides good balance between power and accuracy.

What is low deflection in pool cues and is it worth it?

Low deflection (LD) refers to how much the cue ball squirts sideways when you apply english (sidespin). LD shafts have reduced tip-end mass, causing less cue ball deflection and making aiming more intuitive. They are worth it for players who use a lot of english or are struggling with accuracy on spin shots.

How much should I spend on my first quality pool cue?

For your first quality cue, $150-300 provides excellent options that will last years and support your development. Cues in this range feature straight maple shafts, quality tips, and reliable construction from brands like Action, Athena, and entry-level McDermott.

What tip size is best - 11mm, 12mm, or 13mm?

Standard tips are 12.75-13mm, which are forgiving and great for beginners. Smaller tips (11-12mm) allow more precise cue ball contact and spin generation but require more accuracy. For general play and learning fundamentals, stick with 12.75-13mm until you develop preferences through experience.

Carbon fiber shaft vs wood - which is better?

Carbon fiber shafts never warp, provide consistent hit regardless of humidity, and offer maximum low-deflection. Wood shafts provide traditional feel and feedback many players prefer. Carbon fiber typically costs $500-1500 for the shaft alone. For most recreational players, quality wood shafts perform excellently.

What brands make the best pool cues?

Premium American brands include Predator (low-deflection technology leader), McDermott (Wisconsin craftsmanship, lifetime warranty), and Jacoby (handcrafted customs). Mid-range value leaders include Cuetec, Viking, and Lucasi. Budget-friendly options from Action and Players serve recreational players well.

How do I know if a pool cue shaft is warped?

Roll the cue on a pool table or flat surface - a straight shaft rolls smoothly while a warped one wobbles. Also sight down the shaft like a rifle, rotating it to check for curves. To prevent warping: store cues vertically in a case, avoid car trunks and temperature extremes, and never lean cues against walls.

Do I need separate break and playing cues?

For serious players, yes. Break shots stress equipment significantly - the repeated hard impacts can damage playing cue tips, joints, and even warp shafts over time. Dedicated break cues feature reinforced construction, phenolic tips, and heavier weight optimized for powerful breaks.

What is the difference between 1-piece and 2-piece cues?

Two-piece cues disconnect at the joint (mid-cue) for easy transport and storage in cases. One-piece cues do not come apart. Two-piece is standard for serious players - the joint does not affect playability when properly manufactured. One-piece cues are typically inexpensive house cues.

How often should I replace my cue tip?

Replace tips when they are worn down to 1/8 inch height, become mushroomed (wider than ferrule), harden significantly, or will not hold chalk properly. Typical replacement frequency is every 6-12 months for regular players. Proper tip maintenance (shaping, scuffing, chalking correctly) extends tip life significantly.

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McDermott G436 Cue

Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 5 customer ratings

(5 customer reviews)

Original price was: $785.00.Current price is: $706.50.

McDermott G436 pool cue. G-Core technology shaft. 13mm tip. Made in USA.

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The McDermott G436 Cue exemplifies McDermott’s dedication to American craftsmanship. Part of the renowned G-Series, this cue features G-Core triple-layer shaft technology for reduced deflection and improved accuracy. Each G-Series cue is handcrafted in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.

Specifications:

Tip: 13mm, Navigator Black Medium
Ferrule: 1/2″ Ivorene ferrule
Shaft: 29″ G-Core technology, CT Technology, Triple layer design
Joint: 3/8×10
Collar: White high impact plastic with a German brass and ring around a green ring in a black collar
Forearm: Birdseye maple with green malachite shamrock inlays and recon ivory diamond inlays encased in double German brass rings with a single green ring
Wrap: Black Irish linen with green specks
Butt sleeve: Birdseye maple with green malachite shamrock inlays and recon ivory diamond inlays encased in double German brass rings with a single green ring
Butt plate: White composite with green McDermott logo
Weight system: Adjustable

Warranty: Lifetime warranty – McDermott’s commitment to quality.

Made in USA: Crafted in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 33 in
Tip	13mm, Navigator Black Medium
Ferrule	1/4" Ivorene ferrule
ColorSB	Green, Tan, White
Shaft	29" G-Core technology, CT Technology, Triple layer design
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	White high impact plastic with a German brass and ring around a green ring in a black collar , White high impact plastic with a German brass and ring around a green ring in a black collarÿ
Forearm	Birdseye maple with green malachite shamrock inlays and recon ivory diamond inlays encased in double German brass rings with a single green ring
Wrap	Black Irish linen with green specks , Black Irish linen with green specksÿ
Butt Sleeve	Birdseye maple with green malachite shamrock inlays and recon ivory diamond inlays encased in double German brass rings with a single green ring, Birdseye maple with green malachite shamrock inlays and recon ivory diamond inlays encased in double German brass rings with a single green ringÿ
Butt Plate	White composite with green McDermott logo , White composite with green McDermott logoÿ
Bumper	Black rubber
Weight Changable	Yes
Type of weight bolt	WBMCD
Select an option	18, 19, 20, 21
Comes With Joint Protector?	No
Comes With Extension?	No
Comes With Case?	No
Warranty	Lifetime
Made in	US

5 reviews for McDermott G436 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Alex A. – January 4, 2020

Great purchase

I have owned and shot with more expensive cues, but in my opinion this is the finest stick I have ever held in my hands. It has the control and feel I look for in a stick. Having played the game since I was a child, this is my personal favorite after having played more than 50 years. I bought this cue expecting nothing new in the way of performance, but I can tell you I was really pleasantly surprised in the improvement of my game. You will not go wrong with it.
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen S. – February 13, 2020

Royal Mac

A great pool cue and company. Pooldawg service is outstanding, very special people especially a lady named Laura. I am just starting to play again after a 47 year lay off so I had a lot of questions and she graciously offered her help and (patients) . Thank you really much and God bless.
Rated 5 out of 5

Lisa K. – April 16, 2021

This cue has really improved

This cue has really improved my game. After shopping around and reading reviews I am really pleased. Ordering through pool dawg was super easy and I received my cue really quick.
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley D. – February 17, 2022

More than satisfied

Truthfully, from beginning to end, purchasing, customer service, and the final item exceeded my expectations.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim P. – September 22, 2024

Gorgeous

Awesome pool cue and appears great !

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

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McDermott G436 Cue

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McDermott G436 Cue

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5 reviews for McDermott G436 Cue

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