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.

Viking JPVIK Joint Protectors

Rated 4.89 out of 5 based on 27 customer ratings

(27 customer reviews)

$24.00

Viking joint protectors. Protect your Viking cue joint from damage and debris. Essential accessory.

Availability: 6 in stock

Viking Joint Protectors protect the joint pin and collar of your Viking cue from damage, dirt, and moisture when disassembled. Essential accessory for any Viking cue owner — keeps your joint clean and protected during transport.

Protects Viking cue joint pin and collar
Prevents damage during transport
Keeps joint clean
Viking-specific joint

Weight	0.05 lbs
Dimensions	9 × 6 × 2 in
Made in	China
Joint	Viking Quick-Release
Made Of	Plastic

27 reviews for Viking JPVIK Joint Protectors

Rated 5 out of 5

Rick D. – custom

Viking cue protectors

I was looking for a shorter protector for the butt of my pool cue, due to most being too long causing an issue with zipping the top closed. These leave plenty of room, so now I don’t worry about damaging my bag.
Rated 5 out of 5

Alex F. – custom

just right

perfect for my aged viking cue
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve J. – custom

Viking weights bolts & joint protector

Purchase was shipped promptly and was a perfect fit.I would definitely order from Pool dawg in the future.
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom C. – custom

Good products.

I purchased joint protectors for a Viking. Got a call from pool dawg saying they only have the male side. It was solid to get a call and for them to let me know. Instead of getting all the other things I ordered and figuring out that It wasn’t in my order. That is pooldawg.
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley H. – custom

Great

Great
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah A. – custom

It works

To be frank, it works
Rated 4 out of 5

Kate E. – custom

The Cue stick Protectors Are nice

I must admit, i have a set of two joint protectors. I am satisfied with the set and they seem to protect the joints.
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen M. – custom

Viking Joint Protecter for quick attach

From my perspective, works just as described
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave T. – custom

Flawless fit for my Vikings

Can’t ask for a better fit.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue P. – custom

Excellence

Excellence
Rated 5 out of 5

Sam C. – custom

Excellent

Received my joint protectors quickly and ordering was easy!
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave S. – custom

Viking joint protectors

Fit great and are a fine addition to my stick
Rated 5 out of 5

Jordan G. – custom

The viking joint protectors are

The viking joint protectors are outstanding. I have a Valhalla stick in a cue case master and the lid will close now. These joint protectors will fit Viking QR joint and Valhalla, both are 5/16 x 18. Thanks PoolDawg ! Carrying case master came from somewhere else before I found Pool Dawg.
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy F. – custom

Fits so well with my

Fits so properly with my Viking pool cue that was given to me by a friend – old cue stick but new look
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah D. – custom

Fantastic

Things look great protecting my joints!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim J. – custom

works properly arrived as stated

operates effectively. was delivered as stated
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob M. – custom

service rep was very helpful

To be frank, service rep was really helpful in placing my order and would shop at pool dawg again .
Rated 4 out of 5

Sarah B. – custom

Wonderful Fit

I got these so I could easily identify my Viking stick from the other non-Viking cue in my bag. They fit fantastic and look cool. However, the rounded top means you can not set it down on a table without it rolling around while you assemble your stick. And while Viking cues are made in USA, their joint protectors are made in China.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sam H. – custom

Been using Viking products for

Been using Viking products for years and I’m never disappointed.
Rated 5 out of 5

Rick E. – custom

Super Service

This place is on the BALL, excellent service, delivery time and, satisfactory prices!!
Rated 4 out of 5

Sue N. – custom

Viking joint protectors

Think they would come with the cue. Oh nicely. Works as expected.
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris N. – custom

Viking joint protector

In my experience, it fits the Viking quick release joint just like you said it would.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue G. – custom

Shaft maintenance

Great item amazing service
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim W. – custom

Stellar

I must admit, gREAT Item
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy K. – custom

Just Right

To be frank, high quality with spot on fit and finish. What more could one ask for?
Rated 5 out of 5

Alex W. – custom

Terrific

Truthfully, love this purchase gives me a pice of mined when stowing my pool pool cue knowing there no change of damaging my joints.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jesse E. – custom

Joint protector.

Without a doubt, i like the purchase very much and would get it again.