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 JOS56 Cue

Rated 4.78 out of 5 based on 9 customer ratings

(9 customer reviews)

Original price was: $635.00.Current price is: $539.75.

Unknown JOS56 pool cue featuring 29″ hard rock maple with a pro taper shaft. reliable performance.

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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: JOS56 Categories: Joss Pool Cues, Pool Cues Brand: Joss, Joss, Joss

This pool cue offers quality construction for discerning players. The Joss JOS56 features 29″ hard rock maple with a pro taper shaft, Black with white speck Irish linen wrap for exceptional playability. The traditional Irish linen wrap offers excellent grip and moisture absorption during extended play.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 34 in
Tip	13mm, Triangle or LePro tip
Ferrule	3/4" Aegis Linen ferrule
ColorSB	Black, Blue, Tan
Shaft	29" hard rock maple with a pro taper
Pin	Piloted 5/16×14
Collar	Stainless steel with black collar
Forearm	Maple with blue and black alternating point heights, smaller points have Joss pearl inlays
Wrap	Black with white speck Irish linen
Butt Sleeve	Black with Joss pearl circles and diamonds
Butt Plate	Black with gold Joss logo
Bumper	Black 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

9 reviews for Joss JOS56 Cue

Rated 4 out of 5

Casey G. – custom

got a nice feel satisfactory

In my experience, got a nice feel quality playing stick
Rated 4 out of 5

Bob S. – custom

Great Buy

Am thrilled with this cue. Only reason it’s 4/5 for me is because the the linen rewrap I requested wasn’t just what I expected. Too tight for my taste but that’s subject to personal preference.
Rated 5 out of 5

John J. – custom

Just ordered

Just ordered this stick last night adore the pocket of Joss cues so i doubt i’ll be disappointed, i chose next day air so i should be receiving it tomorrow by 3 pm but the ordering experience was very simple and when i called to ask questions about specs the staff was very friendly and knew what they were talking about which is pleasant for a change but review is coming after the weekend as to how the cue plays and hits
Rated 5 out of 5

Beth N. – custom

Just ordered

Just ordered this cue last night love the strike of Joss cues so i doubt i’ll be disappointed, i chose next day air so i should be receiving it tomorrow by 3 pm but the ordering experience was truly simple and when i called to ask questions about specs the staff was very friendly and knew what they were talking about which is nice for a change but review is coming after the weekend as to how the cue plays and hits
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen W. – custom

absolutely breath taking!!

this cue stick is amazing, premier piece of wood I’ve ever owned!!!!!!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob L. – custom

Wonderful cue !!

I was just given this cue stick for my 50th by my wife and kids. Great solid stick with stunning workmanship but I would suggest having the tip changed out when you order.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue N. – custom

Service was great!

The assistance I received on the phone was great and my husband loves it! Bought it for him for his 50th bday.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave P. – custom

Bday gift from the wife

My wife and kids bought me this pool cue for my 50th birthday. She didn’t know I was already eyeing it which is crazy . The pool cue is my favorite out of all I’ve owned including the brand that begins with a M . End story is I love the cue stick except I changed the shaft for a carbon fiber with a slimmer taper . Non the less a awesome cue !!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Drew F. – custom

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Love my new Joss 56. It’s beautiful and plays amazing A+ purchase.