McDermott Pool Cues: 50 Years of American Craftsmanship and the 2026 Lineup

Half a Century of Making Pool Cues in America

In a world where manufacturing increasingly moves overseas, McDermott Cue stands as a proud exception. For 50 years, every McDermott pool cue has been handcrafted in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin — making them the longest-running American cue manufacturer still producing cues on home soil.

That’s not just a marketing point. It means real quality control, real craftsmanship, and a lifetime warranty that actually means something because the company will still be there when you need it.

In 2026, McDermott is celebrating their golden anniversary with a special commemorative line alongside their proven everyday performers. Here’s what you need to know about the full lineup.

The McDermott 50th Anniversary Series: A Collector’s Dream

To mark five decades in business, McDermott released the MCD50 Anniversary Series — a limited collection of playing cues that showcase the absolute best of what the company can do. Each cue in the series features premium exotic woods, intricate inlay patterns, and design touches that reference McDermott’s history.

The MCD50 cues aren’t just shelf pieces, though. These are fully functional, tournament-ready playing cues built to the same exacting standards as everything else McDermott makes.

Models available: MCD50C, MCD50D, MCD50E, MCD50H — each with a unique design theme

Price: $1,495 per cue

Why it matters: Limited-edition McDermott cues have historically appreciated in value. If you’re a collector or a player who appreciates history, these won’t last forever.

👉 Shop McDermott 50th Anniversary Cues at Quarter King Billiards

The McDermott G-Series: The Best Value in Serious Pool Cues

If there’s a single cue line that defines McDermott’s sweet spot of quality and value, it’s the G-Series. These cues deliver everything you need for competitive play — solid construction, consistent hit, beautiful wood selections — at prices that don’t require a second mortgage.

The G-Series has been a staple of McDermott’s catalog for years, and the 2026 models (including the G521 and G522) continue the tradition with updated designs and finishes while maintaining the rock-solid performance McDermott is known for.

Key models:

• G521 Series (available in multiple colorways: R, W, B) — $539
• G522 — $575

Who it’s for: League players, intermediate players upgrading from a starter cue, and anyone who wants a reliable American-made cue without spending four figures.

👉 Shop McDermott G-Series Cues at Quarter King Billiards

The McDermott Select Series: Step-Up Performance

Sitting between the G-Series and the premium tiers, the Select Series cues (SL3, SL5, and others) offer enhanced construction, more elaborate design work, and materials that punch above their price point.

The Select Series is where McDermott starts incorporating more exotic woods, precision inlays, and refined balance points that advanced players will appreciate.

Key models:

• SL3 Select Cue — $675
• SL5 Select Cue — $900

Who it’s for: Players stepping up from the G-Series who want better materials and more refined playability without jumping to the $1,000+ tier.

👉 Shop McDermott Select Series at Quarter King Billiards

The McDermott Vanquish: Carbon Fiber Meets American Craftsmanship

McDermott’s answer to the carbon fiber revolution is the Vanquish line. The VQ1 is a full carbon fiber playing cue that marries McDermott’s traditional cue-building expertise with modern composite technology.

Unlike some carbon fiber cues that feel sterile or lack character, the Vanquish retains the “soul” that McDermott players expect — a solid hit with good feedback, just with the added consistency and durability that carbon fiber provides.

Price: $975

Who it’s for: Players who want to move to carbon fiber but want it from a trusted American brand with a lifetime warranty.

👉 Shop the McDermott Vanquish VQ1 at Quarter King Billiards

The McDermott Defy Shaft: Upgrade Any Cue Instantly

Even if you’re not in the market for a new cue, McDermott’s Defy carbon fiber shaft is one of the best upgrades you can make. Available in both 12mm and 12.5mm tip diameters, the Defy shaft brings low-deflection carbon fiber performance to any cue with a compatible joint.

At $432, it’s one of the most affordable carbon fiber shaft options on the market — and it comes with McDermott’s lifetime warranty.

👉 Shop the McDermott Defy Shaft at Quarter King Billiards

McDermott Accessories: Cases and Joint Protectors

McDermott also makes a solid lineup of cue cases that match the quality of their cues. From the compact 2×2 Sport Case ($301) to the versatile 3×5 Backpack ($360), these cases are built to protect your investment on the road.

Don’t forget joint protectors ($24) — a small investment that prevents damage to your cue’s pin and collar between sessions.

How to Choose the Right McDermott Cue

• Budget-conscious / First serious cue: The G-Series ($539–$575) is the obvious choice. American-made, lifetime warranty, and genuinely good to play with.
• Ready to invest more: The Select Series ($675–$900) offers a noticeable step up in materials and feel.
• Carbon fiber curious: The Vanquish VQ1 ($975) or just grab a Defy shaft ($432) to upgrade your existing cue.
• Collector / 50th Anniversary: The MCD50 series ($1,495) — limited availability, likely to appreciate in value.

Why Buy McDermott from Quarter King Billiards?

As an authorized McDermott dealer, Quarter King Billiards stocks the full 2026 lineup with fast shipping and the personal service of a specialty billiards retailer. Every cue comes backed by McDermott’s industry-leading lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

👉 Browse All McDermott Cues

Frequently Asked Questions

Are McDermott pool cues good for beginners?

Yes. The G-Series in particular offers excellent quality for players at any level. The solid construction and consistent hit help beginners develop good habits, and the cue will grow with you as your skills improve.

Where are McDermott cues made?

Every McDermott cue is handcrafted in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, USA. They’ve been manufacturing in the same location for 50 years.

What is the McDermott lifetime warranty?

McDermott offers a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship on all their cues. This covers the original owner and is one of the strongest warranties in the industry.

How does the McDermott Defy shaft compare to the Predator REVO?

Both are excellent carbon fiber shafts. The Defy tends to have a slightly softer hit and comes in at a lower price point ($432 vs. the REVO’s higher price), making it an excellent value for players entering the carbon fiber world. The REVO is generally considered to have a slightly more crisp feedback. Both will improve your game.

Are the 50th Anniversary McDermott cues limited edition?

Yes. The MCD50 series was released to commemorate McDermott’s 50th anniversary and is produced in limited quantities. Once they’re gone, they’re gone.