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.

Sale!

Outlaw 3×5 Case OLH35 Flames

Rated 4.77 out of 5 based on 13 customer ratings

(13 customer reviews)

Original price was: $275.00.Current price is: $247.50.

Tan with flames

Availability: 10 in stock

SKU: OLH35 FLAMES Categories: Outlaw Cases, Pool Cue Cases Tag: 3x5 Brand: Outlaw, Outlaw

Size : 3 butts and 5 shafts
Type : Hard
Shape : Oval
Material : Vinyl
Color / Design Description : Tan with multiple pocket designs available
Top Closure : Zipper
Number of Pockets : 2
Longest Pocket Length : 16.5″
Total Length : 36″
Longest Shaft Length : 31″
Top Carrying Handle : None
Side Carrying Handle : Yes
Shoulder Strap : Yes

Additional Information

Flames UPC : 822114007849
Guns UPC : 822114007832
Horseshoe UPC : 822114007825
Wings UPC : 822114007801

Weight	5 lbs
Dimensions	34 × 4 × 4 in

13 reviews for Outlaw 3×5 Case OLH35 Flames

Rated 5 out of 5

Riley D. – January 5, 2020

Excellent!

I placed an order as a Christmas gift for my husband. I was really concerned about it arriving on time. I contacted Pooldawg and Michelle assisted me with tracking my shipment. She was so polite and helpful! It arrived on time and everything was perfect! Excellent quality and my husband absolutely loved it!!! Thank you Michelle and Pooldawg!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim C. – February 19, 2020

3 ×5 outlaw case

Truthfully, it’s better quality than I expected for the price. The shape of it makes it simple to carry not square and bulky.i really like it.
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy F. – April 18, 2020

Outlaw Pool Case

In my experience, excellent cue case. Everything fits perfectly. Love the side zipper for the larger pocket.
Rated 4 out of 5

Sarah P. – June 14, 2020

Outlaw Nexus 3 Butt 5 Shaft Flames Hard Case

i am thrilled with it, it seems great love the side zipper for my jump pool cue i like the shoulder strap although i do use the handle more than the strap, only issue is the butt tube is to deep i had to stuff some small pieces of cloth in the tube so i don’t have to tilt my bag to get the butt of my stick out
Rated 5 out of 5

Taylor E. – September 16, 2020

Wonderful

Plenty of room. Keeps cues seperate and secure. Seems wonderful.
Rated 5 out of 5

Mary J. – December 23, 2020

Pool Case

Without a doubt, excellent pool case. Sturdy & very aesthetically appealing! 😊 A+ purchase.
Rated 4 out of 5

Tom R. – December 28, 2020

Solid construction

Seems wonderful! The handle and shoulder strap are properly made and appear durable. Only issue I have found is that the portion of the case that stores the large end of the cue is too deep. Most of my cues sat flush making removal difficult. I used the included cue blank to pack down a small amount of newspaper in each cavity raising how the cue sits. Concern solved. This a fantastic case at a good price.
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike G. – April 24, 2022

Decent quality … Quick delivery

Decent construction … Quick shipping
Rated 5 out of 5

Mary S. – December 4, 2022

Excellent Chase carries all my

Excellent Chase carries all my stuff easily appears solid and comfortable to carry in my sticks are secure It was simple to order was delivered quickly and I am not disappointed at all I will be buying everything from pool dawg from now on
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike G. – April 20, 2023

Decent case and response to

Good case and response to my order
Rated 5 out of 5

Casey D. – April 25, 2023

Great quality and looks.

Superb construction and looks.
Rated 4 out of 5

Jen H. – November 22, 2023

Would rather have an enclosed

Would rather have an enclosed top instead of the flap also a handle on top
Rated 5 out of 5

Jesse R. – January 21, 2025

Outlaw Nexus 3×5 pool case

I must admit, i received my package in a timely manner and in good condition. I absolutely appreciate the cue case. I was carrying two separate cases around with me. It is so much more convenient only have to carry one case around now. Thanks pool dawg for you awesome service.