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 G204 Cue

Rated 4.91 out of 5 based on 23 customer ratings

(23 customer reviews)

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

McDermott G204 pool cue. G-Core technology shaft. 13mm tip. Made in USA.

The McDermott G204 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″ G-Core technology, CT Technology, Triple layer design
Joint: 3/8×10
Collar: Black composite collar with double brass rings encasing pearl colored ring
Forearm: Birdseye maple with American cherry organic stain
Wrap: Brown Irish linen with white specks
Butt sleeve: Birdseye maple with American cherry 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
Shaft	29" G-Core technology, CT Technology, Triple layer design, Joint: Flat faced wood-to-wood
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Black composite collar with double brass rings encasing pearl colored ring , ÿBlack composite collar with double brass rings encasing pearl colored ringÿ
Forearm	Birdseye maple with American cherry organic stain
Wrap	Brown Irish linen with white specks, ÿBrown Irish linen with white specks
Butt Sleeve	Birdseye maple with American cherry stain, Birdseye maple with American cherry 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 with McDermott logo
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

23 reviews for McDermott G204 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Lisa P. – January 8, 2020

McDermott G204 pool cue

Very pleasant cue, beautifully finished. I had the Everest Tiger tip swapped for a Kamui Black soft and the cue meets all my expectations; predicable, big sweet spot, and forgiving.
Rated 5 out of 5

Mary D. – February 16, 2020

Fantastic cue!!! Recommend highly

Fantastic pool cue! Suggest highly
Rated 5 out of 5

Rick A. – March 6, 2020

Great product

Beautiful stick. It was delivered within 4 days of ordering. I recommend this purchase and business to anyone looking to make a purchase. Thank you.
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris R. – March 13, 2020

McDermott Pool Cue

Love the cue stick! Even with the upgraded cue tip it shipped to me quickly!
Rated 5 out of 5

Lisa L. – May 9, 2020

McDermott Cue

outstanding quality for a great price.
Rated 5 out of 5

Taylor F. – May 25, 2020

Beauty at an affordable cost.

This is a wonderful looking cue. If you want a cue that shoots properly and doesn’t cost a fortune.This is a great one to get. I also like the simplicity of it. They utilize the natural beauty the wood. To give this cue it’s beauty.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave S. – July 6, 2020

It is nice

To be frank, it is pleasant
Rated 5 out of 5

Alex S. – July 11, 2020

Order came quickly, hassle free.

order came quickly, hassle free.
Rated 5 out of 5

Pat R. – August 1, 2020

Cue stick purchase

It was pleasure doing busibess with Pooldawg. Thre salesperson i spoke with was courtious and helpful. I recieved a good item at a quality value. I will highly recomend to my friends to do business with your company when they need a new item. I rate you at 5 stars. Thank you
Rated 5 out of 5

Morgan F. – September 7, 2020

Customer service

I received excellent service from Kevin in Colorado. He was very knowledgeable of the products in the Pooldawg catalogue and the game of pool also. He gave me some extremely helpful advice. Will call on him again when I make my next purchase
Rated 5 out of 5

Sam T. – October 20, 2020

perfect to get started again

I have played as a younger guy at the local pool hall but when it closed i gave it up now my wife bought me this cue I must say its good great feel can’t wait to join the apa and see if I can get ranked a 6-7
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike F. – October 24, 2020

Fast shipment and wonderful item

From my perspective, man I ordered my cue on a thurs and was playing with it that Saturday and it was just regular shipment. I love my new cue and the price point was pleasant as effectively!
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate S. – April 24, 2021

VERY Decent WELL BALANCED QUE

Honestly, really Quality Nicely BALANCED QUE
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen P. – October 30, 2021

Wonderful experience

We ordered this pool pool cue for our son’s birthday. It was delivered quickly and packed well. Heck, I even repackaged like it was so he could enjoy getting that cap off. He will find it’s a beautiful McDermott stick he will enjoy for a lifetime.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah G. – November 6, 2021

Terrific turnaround time from order

Truthfully, superb turnaround time from order date. Love the stick.
Rated 4 out of 5

Taylor A. – October 31, 2022

Thanks for the support

Thanks for the support
Rated 5 out of 5

Jordan R. – March 7, 2024

McDermott G204 Pool Cue

Fantastic Cue, brings out a certain level of pride when representing myself at the table.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue L. – April 4, 2024

Great cue able to control

To be frank, great cue stick able to control cue ball well
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom B. – January 2, 2025

Love my G204!

I have played with my old McDermott for 50 years and decided to treat myself to a new one. I really like the wood grain look of the G204 and the G-Core shaft feels amazing. Feels like it’s a part of you and truly consistent on every shot.
Rated 5 out of 5

Morgan K. – March 12, 2025

Great pool cue

This was a birthday gift, I am very impressed with the build quality and workmanship, made in USA!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen F. – March 22, 2025

The g204 does everything you

Honestly, the g204 does everything you could wish for. Excellent feel and positioning cue ball is no concern. I did change weight to 20 instead of 19oz. This seems to help on longer shots.
Rated 4 out of 5

Taylor T. – January 28, 2026

ok

Satisfactory pool cue, could not get the shaft size I wanted.
Rated 5 out of 5

John F. – March 29, 2026

First Stick

No complaints with pool cue or pooldawgs