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 JOSNXS Natural Shaft

Rated 4.93 out of 5 based on 15 customer ratings

(15 customer reviews)

Original price was: $315.00.Current price is: $267.75.

The Joss JOSNXS Natural Shaft features unstained maple with classic Joss taper. Premium replacement shaft for Joss cue owners.

SKU: JOSNXS Categories: Joss Pool Cues, Shafts, Standard Shafts Brand: Joss, Joss, Joss

The Joss JOSNXS Natural Shaft is a premium replacement shaft from legendary American cue maker Joss Cues. The “Natural” designation indicates an unstained, natural-finish maple shaft that showcases the raw beauty of the wood grain — preferred by many players and collectors who appreciate the clean, traditional look.

Joss Cues, founded by Dan Janes, has been producing world-class cues and shafts for decades, and the JOSNXS carries forward that tradition. Built from hand-selected hard rock maple with Joss’s precise taper and tip preparation for a smooth, consistent playing experience.

Premium hard rock maple — natural unstained finish
Classic Joss taper and playing characteristics
Compatible with Joss joint specifications
Hand-selected wood for straightness and quality
Professional-grade tip preparation

Weight	0.8 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 34 in
Tip	12.75mm Joss Premium layered
Ferrule	1/2" ferrule
Shaft	29" maple with 6 inch "light weight" dowel. Phenolic insert in bottom of shaft
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Black collar
Warranty	Limited
Select an option	10, 14BC, 18

15 reviews for Joss JOSNXS Natural Shaft

Rated 5 out of 5

Lisa D. – March 19, 2020

Joss HP Natural Shaft

excellent shaft with low deflection and solid hit. Would recommend.
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate P. – May 22, 2020

Joss high preformance

Truthfully, these shaft are amazing, I have two them. Very low deflection. Highly recomend them.
Rated 4 out of 5

Alex R. – June 1, 2020

Joss replacement shaft JOSNSX

I am having a issue with the replacement shaft that I ordered. The fit to the but end of my pool cue is extremely tight. I fear-full that I might damage the pin or the collar itself. Do you have any suggestions or advice. Dale Reinhardt [email protected]
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen R. – October 18, 2020

Super solid, no complaints.

super solid, no complaints.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim D. – December 16, 2020

Upgrade

Honestly, been enjoying my Joss stick, but watching fellow players going to low deflection and carbon fiber shafts I decided it was time for me to give one of these a try. I’ve been so pleased with Joss support and item that I wanted to stick with their shaft. I’m pleased – really pleased.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue T. – December 29, 2020

good shaft

pleasant shaft
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris S. – March 18, 2021

Great shaft, great seller!

I have to say, super simple to order. Quality shipping time, great packaging. So far, I am thrilled with the shaft and its low deflection. I upgraded the tip and, effectively, I’m loving that, too. Would definitely purchase from PoolDawgs again!
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob G. – December 13, 2021

Joss

Great improvement, hits very nicely
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve D. – December 20, 2021

Joss Natural

From my perspective, feels great appreciate the solid sound pocket all around terrific feel the shaft is completely unbeatable.
Rated 5 out of 5

Lisa E. – July 27, 2022

It hits really solid

It hits really nice!
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue M. – August 21, 2022

Joss Natural Cue Shaft

This shaft from Joss performs as expected. It is a vast improvement over their basic shaft. It is a fantastic true to aim shaft that players of all levels will benefit from. Of course it has the durable pocket that players have come to expect from all Joss cues.
Rated 5 out of 5

Beth K. – April 14, 2024

This shaft reduces deflection about

I must admit, this shaft reduces deflection about 35-40% compared to the standard Joss hardrock maple shaft. It has a really durable hit and sound. I had a Kamui original clear medium tip installed on it & it works perfectly with my stroke & playing style.
Rated 5 out of 5

Rick R. – April 20, 2024

Excellent purchase

Excellent purchase!
Rated 5 out of 5

John S. – April 3, 2025

Worthwhile upgrade

Truthfully, i bought a JOS213 stick, and when I did I ordered this shaft as an upgrade over the Joss standard shaft. Their standard shaft is only available in 13mm and I wanted a 12. 75mm, and their standard tip is too hard, so that was an upgrade as well. The shaft plays great, still has a slightly firmer feel than I usually play, but the overall effect is that this may be my favorite cue stick. The JOS213 is such a bargain paying an extra $93 was a no brainer.
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike C. – October 19, 2025

Joss hp shaft

Extremely solid shaft hits and feels great Highly recommend!