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!

McDermott Pool Cues

McDermott G203 Cue

Rated 4.77 out of 5 based on 13 customer ratings

(13 customer reviews)

Original price was: $445.00.Current price is: $400.50.

McDermott G203 pool cue. G-Core technology shaft. 13mm tip. Made in USA.

The McDermott G203 Cue exemplifies McDermott’s dedication to American craftsmanship. Part of the renowned G-Series, this cue features G-Core triple-layer shaft technology for reduced deflection and improved accuracy. Each G-Series cue is handcrafted in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.

Specifications:

Tip: 13mm, Navigator Black Medium
Ferrule: 1/2″ Ivorene ferrule
Shaft: 29″ hard rock maple G-Core shaft, 10 – 12″ pro taper
Joint: 3/8×10
Collar: Stainless steel with a black collar with double brass rings encasing pearl colored ring
Forearm: Birdseye maple with an organic dark English European stain
Wrap: Brown Irish linen with ten specks
Butt sleeve: Birdseye maple with an organic dark English European stain
Butt plate: White composite with gold McDermott logo and a double set of brass rings encasing pearl colored ring
Weight system: Adjustable

Warranty: Lifetime warranty – McDermott’s commitment to quality.

Made in USA: Crafted in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 33 in
Tip	13mm, Navigator Black Medium
Ferrule	1/2" Ivorene ferrule, 1/2" Ivorene ferruleÿ
Shaft	29" hard rock maple G-Core shaft, 10 – 12" pro taper
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Stainless steel with a black collar with double brass rings encasing pearl colored ring , Stainless steel with a black collar with double brass rings encasing pearl colored ringÿ
Forearm	Birdseye maple with an organic dark English European stain
Wrap	Brown Irish linen with ten specks , Brown Irish linen with ten specksÿ
Butt Sleeve	Birdseye maple with an organic dark English European stain, Birdseye maple with an organic dark English European stainÿ
Butt Plate	White composite with gold McDermott logo and a double set of brass rings encasing pearl colored ring , White composite with gold McDermott logo and a double set of brass rings encasing pearl colored ringÿ
Bumper	Black rubber
Weight Changable	Yes
Type of weight bolt	WBMCD
Select an option	18, 19, 20, 21
Comes With Joint Protector?	No
Comes With Extension?	No
Comes With Case?	No
Warranty	Lifetime
Made in	US

13 reviews for McDermott G203 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Bob G. – January 6, 2020

was a gift and made

was a gift and made quite a hit. Still raving about it.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah G. – January 7, 2020

Improved my game

This is my first McDermott cue stick and I love it!!! it has improved my game I’m more accurate with my shots couldn’t be happier A+ purchase.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim T. – April 4, 2020

McDermott G203

In my experience, i called up Pool Dawg for some advice on a pool pool cue, I ended up talking to Chris and he was awesome. Not only did he help me find a pool cue to suite my needs, but he explained to me the differences between the cues I had picked out and helped me find the best option for the least amount of money down to the stick tip. My order shipped exceptionally swift too, even with my customizations, and arrived on schedule. From the helpful and knowledable staff to the packing and shipping, Pool Dawg far exceeded my expectations and secured the spot as my first choice in billiard supplies.
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate E. – June 22, 2020

Mcedermott g203

I purchased my mcdermott pool cue from pool dawg and I was very pleased with how quickly it arrived and the packaging it was in. Cue was not damaged in any way and looked immaculate. Shoots truly nicely. Delivery was free and quick so I am extremely pleased with the over service pool dawg provided me. I am a first time buyer and am sure to be back. Thank u pool dawg and I love your service and logo too!! Very cool distributer of high quality pool accessories. I will return here for all my pool/billiards needs.
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom A. – September 13, 2020

Correction! It was a G222 pool cue stick

i received the cue really quickly. After I had tried it out, I did not like the way it contact. It was too soft so I had a le-pro tip put on. I have not tried the new tip yet. The cue is beautiful.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave J. – October 15, 2020

Superb Quality First Stick

I bought the G-core as my first stick and don’t regret it. After 5-6 games getting used to the pro taper (used to bar sticks) I started to get the hang of it. You can feel a difference in the G-core vs a regular stick. Alot less vibration, feels like you are using a precision rifle. I went and bought another one (G-204) for a friend.
Rated 4 out of 5

John F. – November 14, 2020

G203

I recently ordered my cue but unfortunately had to send it back due to a small chip in the shaft. But pool dawg was very helpful with the return process and gave me a refund promptly. I WILL be getting my next stick through you
Rated 4 out of 5

Sue W. – April 7, 2021

Solid cue with a dark side

The cue came straight and true. Its described as having a dark stain and it is extremely dark – not ebony dark, but for me its a little too dark. It came with the G Core shaft and I had a Kamui Clear Black medium tip installed by Pooldawg (good job). Plays about like my old maple shaft with med Triangle tip. The only negative was the G shaft finish came with a little gritty. Q Wax did not help. So I cleaned it up using the McDermott McMagic burnishing system. Lovely and smooth now.
Rated 4 out of 5

John A. – July 3, 2021

Great beginner cue!

From my perspective, this is my first stick. The overall build quality feel and look is great. The GCore shaft definitely doesn’t hit like a classic maple shaft, I feel like it tends to be really unforgiving of poor form, which ultimately just inspired me to practice more! And of course PoolDawg’s execution of the order was flawless.
Rated 5 out of 5

Morgan P. – April 19, 2022

Great stick for a decent price.

First time buying a cue for myself, and I’m extremely happy with it. Shipped swift and a terrific deal. Shot similar sticks for a lot more at the local shop, so I’m happy to have this on the rack.
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom J. – September 9, 2022

So Happy!

Was one of the cheaper McDermott that was made in Wisc with a lifetime warranty and a nice G-Core shaft (basically no inlays or anything ornate). It’s still beautiful, and performs beautifully. I’m still growing into it, but super content. I can’t blame any missed shots on the equipment.
Rated 5 out of 5

Drew K. – November 9, 2022

Fantastic cue,

Fantastic cue,
Rated 5 out of 5

Sam E. – February 7, 2023

Perfect Stick

Amazing stick – immediately improved my game. Seems excellent, feels fantastic, shoots incredible!