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.

QuicSlick SPQS Shaft Maintenance System

Rated 4.84 out of 5 based on 19 customer ratings

(19 customer reviews)

$22.50

QuicSlick SPQS Shaft Maintenance System. Precision shaft for improved cue ball control and consistency. Designed for serious players.

Availability: 6 in stock

SKU: SPQS Category: Miscellaneous

QuicSlick SPQS Shaft Maintenance System. Precision shaft for improved cue ball control and consistency. Designed for serious players. Shop the QuicSlick SPQS Shaft Maintenance System at Quarter King Billiards. Free shipping on orders over $99.

Weight	0.075 lbs
Dimensions	7 × 9 × 3 in
Used For	Quic Slick Shaft cleaning system
Select an option	SPQS

19 reviews for QuicSlick SPQS Shaft Maintenance System

Rated 5 out of 5

Amy M. – March 4, 2020

quick slick

Great product. The included grip helps with creating an even pressure for the abrasive sheets. Definitely an improvement from products that just contain the sheets. Small enough to carry in your cue case of desired. Sheets are easily maintained by running under water and light brushing with old tooth brush
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue E. – March 16, 2020

Truly impressive

This item is really impressive. I highly suggest it to any player who wants to keep their shaft in perfect condition. A great gift for that special pool player in your life. I would definitely buy again.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan J. – March 24, 2020

QuicSlick

Wonderful item! Fantastic company!
Rated 4 out of 5

Sarah E. – March 25, 2020

Good shaft cleaner

Great item! Shaft is fluid as glass
Rated 5 out of 5

Pat M. – May 9, 2020

QuickSlick Shaft Maintenance System

Did what it said it would. I like it and would recommend it! It would be pleasant if it came in a storage case or at least a resealable plastic bag.
Rated 4 out of 5

Taylor M. – May 21, 2020

Shaft cleaning system

Without a doubt, was somewhat disappointed with it until I tried it out. It’s pretty amazing. Does a terrific job. Really makes the shaft clean and smooth. Highly suggest it.
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate D. – November 15, 2020

Stick maintenance system

Absolutely am thrilled with this system. I have had similar ones, but the special handle evenly dispersed the pressure and heat that gets generated. I will be definitely ordering 2 more. One for my secondary case and one to keep at home.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim A. – November 23, 2020

Outstanding product

Easy to use. Great for making my stick nice and silky Money well spent.
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve N. – December 5, 2020

Worked great

Truthfully, i had an old cue that I wanted to do some minor work on and this was perfect for a amateur at home wanting to work on cleaning up their cue stick
Rated 5 out of 5

John K. – December 11, 2020

Quikslick system

In my experience, works really well, Thanks!
Rated 4 out of 5

Mike H. – January 28, 2022

cleans my sticks very well

In my experience, cleans my sticks very well but the could be just a little easier to clean up after they get dirty .
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan B. – June 5, 2022

Great purchase Very content with

Great buy! Extremely delighted with transaction!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen D. – January 8, 2023

Reviewing pooldawg

Having the opportunity to order items from pooldawg has been excellent. They are very friendly and helpful they check every item you order to make sure they have it in stock. I recommend everyone should take the opportunity to order all of their needs from pooldawg.
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike J. – February 28, 2023

Quick and easy way to

quick and effortless way to keep your shaft in ideal condition.
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob K. – November 18, 2023

It works.

It functions.
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob W. – February 21, 2024

Works solid smooth as glass

Works good smooth as glass
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley R. – July 15, 2024

Not a gimmick

This easy 3-step process completely transformed the feeling (in the best way possible) of my wood shafts and I can’t believe the factory shine-like finish after using this system!
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan A. – August 5, 2024

Great system

Without a doubt, this Quick slick shaft, maintenance system really transformed my wood shafts to the best condition they’ve ever been in before and the smoothness is 2nd to None. I do not regret buying this item at all.
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob N. – September 26, 2024

Quicslick shaft maintenance system

I heard about this system in 2019. Bought 2 sets…..my Que has never worked better. So glad PoolDawg carries this terrific product….