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!

Joss JOS173 Cue

Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 6 customer ratings

(6 customer reviews)

Original price was: $687.00.Current price is: $583.95.

Joss JOS173 pool cue. 29″ hard rock maple with a pro taper shaft. 13mm tip. Made in USA.

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Pool Cue Purchasing Guide

First time buying a pool cue? Check out our pool cue purchasing guide to learn all about cues and their technology!

Don't have your weight in stock?

No problem! Leave your weight preference in "additional notes" at checkout and we will happily re-weight it for you! (between 18oz-21oz)

SKU: JOS173 Categories: Joss Pool Cues, Pool Cues Brand: Joss, Joss, Joss

The Joss JOS173 Cue showcases Joss’s commitment to quality. With Maryland craftsmanship since 1968, this cue delivers classic American cue design.

Specifications:

Tip: 13mm, Triangle or LePro tip
Ferrule: 3/4″ Aegis linen
Shaft: 29″ hard rock maple with a pro taper
Joint: Piloted 5/16×14
Collar: Stainless steel with black collar
Forearm: Maple with Ebony points and Mother of Pearl diamonds
Wrap: Black with white spec Irish linen
Butt sleeve: Ebony with maple and Ebony rectangles encasing mother of pearl decorative diamonds which alternate large skinny mother of pearl diamonds
Butt plate: Black with gold Joss logo
Weight system: Adjustable

Warranty: Limited warranty – Joss’s commitment to quality.

Made in USA: Crafted with American precision.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 34 in
Tip	13mm, Triangle or LePro tip
Ferrule	3/4" Aegis linen
ColorSB	Tan
Shaft	29" hard rock maple with a pro taper
Pin	Piloted 5/16×14
Collar	Stainless steel with black collar
Forearm	Maple with Ebony points and Mother of Pearl diamonds
Wrap	Black with white spec Irish linen
Butt Sleeve	Ebony with maple and Ebony rectangles encasing mother of pearl decorative diamonds which alternate large skinny mother of pearl diamonds
Butt Plate	Black with gold Joss logo
Bumper	Joss rubber plug
Weight Changable	Yes
Type of weight bolt	WBJOS
Comes With Joint Protector?	No
Comes With Extension?	No
Comes With Case?	No
Select an option	18, 19, 20, 21
Warranty	Limited
Made in	US

6 reviews for Joss JOS173 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Amy P. – January 3, 2020

Excellent

In my experience, i couldn’t ask for a better cue when it comes to both performance and design. I was lucky enough to speak directly with Dan Janes, the founder of Joss. He highly recommends PoolDawg and after working with Laura I couldn’t agree more. Fantastic purchase and people.
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom E. – March 5, 2020

Joss 173 pool cue

Absolutely love this stick not only is it sexy to look at but it performs like a dream could not be happier with this purchase. Pooldawg made the transaction super simple and very timely, was a excellent experience dealing with them and look forward to possibly buying another stick down the road. will definitely be using Pooldawg again
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike J. – June 23, 2020

Joss Cue stick

JOS173 Great Stick, loveit Would buy again.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim E. – October 30, 2020

Joss is king

I bought a 20 oz Joss 02 back in Jan… I’m one that cant have same cue as another player. 80s version of my cue is used by another player in my local pool hall. So I decided to buy this bad mama at the 18 oz Mark a few months ago. I appreciate this Pool cue. JOSS is King
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen A. – April 11, 2023

Am thrilled with my new Joss

The cue stick stick came in pretty timely and well packaged, am thrilled with my new Joss!
Rated 5 out of 5

Ann A. – April 8, 2025

Looks and feels amazing

Really like this stick!