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 4×8 Soft Case OLSCB

Rated 4.93 out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings

(15 customer reviews)

Original price was: $349.00.Current price is: $314.10.

Outlaw brown color with USA Flag on both sides with Outlaw logo on one side and American Eagle on the other

Availability: 8 in stock

Size : 4 butts and 8 shafts
Type : Soft
Shape : Oval
Material : Vinyl
Color / Design Description : Outlaw brown color with USA Flag on both sides with Outlaw logo on one side and American Eagle on the other
Top Closure : Zipper
Number of Pockets : 2
Longest Pocket Length : 17.5″
Total Length : 34″
Longest Shaft Length : 32″
Top Carrying Handle : No
Side Carrying Handle : Yes
Shoulder Strap : No

Additional Information:

Butterfly open cue access
UPC: 822114035811

Weight	4 lbs
Dimensions	34 × 4 × 4 in
Case Type	Soft
Case Material	Vinyl
Material	Vinyl
Brand	Outlaw

15 reviews for Outlaw 4×8 Soft Case OLSCB

Rated 5 out of 5

Ann S. – March 20, 2020

Outlaw Softcase

So far this case has exceeded my expectations. It is nicely made, roomy and a safe haven for my pool cues.
Rated 5 out of 5

John W. – July 31, 2020

Outlaw 4×8 Case

I am impressed by this case. Excellent craftsmanship! I wouldn’t change a thing and I would order it again! 🙂
Rated 5 out of 5

John E. – December 28, 2020

Outlaw 4 X 8 Soft Bag

The carrying case is perfectly as pictured. Has lots of room inside and great pockets outside for accessories. The processing and shipping was excellent, despite current problems. Would not hesitate to order again.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim H. – May 22, 2021

Am thrilled with it

Nice good make
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley S. – July 21, 2021

Best of everything

I have to say, this case was everything I was looking for and more. The service was top notch and extremely speedy. I would recommend this company and the products they carry to anyone looking for nice construction billiards equipment and supplies.
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike E. – August 12, 2021

Amazing carrying case

Superb case
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve G. – September 19, 2021

Awesome case

Incredible bag
Rated 5 out of 5

Casey T. – April 8, 2022

Cue case

Everyone likes the cue stick case..it’s got plenty of space for everything I need it for..I like it and have to get use to it.
Rated 5 out of 5

Ann W. – April 12, 2022

Dream come true

From my perspective, this majestic case has made my dreams come true. Happy birthday to me!!! Carrying case has lots of storage for both cues and accessories without making it feel overstuffed.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sam W. – July 20, 2022

Outlaw Carrying case surprisingly effectively made with lots of room

I must admit, the Outlaw case has been doing excellent. It is nicely designed and has some unexpected features. Generally you don’t really understand from descriptions how effectively things work. In this case I was surprized by the amount of room in the cue case. It holds everything I want to carry and room for more. The constuction is well done and should last a long time.
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob H. – October 25, 2022

Best carrying case I’ve had in 40 years

Adore this carrying case! It opens up nicely and keeps sticks organized and easily accessible depending on what you need. The pockets are absolutely the best in size and inner-organizational capability, and the jump pool cue fits better than any tube-style case I’ve utilized. This is my 5th case and won’t go back to the older style. Additionally, I do not miss the standing option as I thought I would, but definitely keep an extra Claw handy. Go to the dark side, go Outlaw!
Rated 4 out of 5

Sarah D. – October 26, 2022

Shoulder strap.

Shoulder strap should be of a better craftsmanship.
Rated 5 out of 5

Alex C. – February 23, 2023

Great material. Lots of space.

Terrific material. Lots of space. Truly properly constructed
Rated 5 out of 5

Casey N. – October 3, 2023

Awesome case, great build quality large

Awesome case, excellent quality, large pockets able to hold everything I have with room to add.
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen F. – March 12, 2025

Top-notch case I’ve even had

From my perspective, amazing craftsmanship, plenty of space, won’t regret the purchase!