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 G230 Cue

Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 12 customer ratings

(12 customer reviews)

Original price was: $515.00.Current price is: $463.50.

McDermott G230 pool cue. G-Core technology 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)

The McDermott G230 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: Double silver rings with white ring. Cream collar
Forearm: Pacific blue stained Birdseye Maple
Wrap: None – Birdseye Maple
Butt sleeve: Pacific blue stain Birdseye Maple
Butt plate: Cream with gold McDermott logo
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
ColorSB	Blue, Tan
Shaft	29" G-Core technology, CT Technology, Triple layer design
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Double silver rings with white ring. Cream collar
Forearm	Pacific blue stained Birdseye Maple
Wrap	None – Birdseye Maple
Butt Sleeve	Pacific blue stain Birdseye Maple
Butt Plate	Cream with gold McDermott logo
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

12 reviews for McDermott G230 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Sue W. – custom

McDermott G230 pool cue

Amazing stick. Ordered it to start in a new local APA group and could not be happier. Feels like an extension of the arm, spot on balance and feel. Buy this cue!
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue W. – custom

Not a women’s stick

Like the look, simple, blue/birds eye. Easy to spot when in claw at table. With carbon shaft, feels different than wood. Had a Lucky and wanted to stay with the McDermott 3/8 pin. Had to get used to unwrapped vs. linen. Have shown my pool buds this cue stick, nobody thought it looked feminine. I however, am not.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave N. – custom

Sapphire!

Named her Sapphire for the deep blue of her color. She has been a wonderful upgrade for me, helping me start to move off this plateau to the next level of my game.
Rated 5 out of 5

Ann E. – custom

Outstanding cue

I love this cue. Pooldawg has superb prices and quick delivery.
Rated 5 out of 5

Beth P. – custom

G230

Amazing cue. Professional service. Will order from again.
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris K. – custom

McDermott G230

Amazing stick for the price, I feel like I have so much more control of the cue stick ball, I can definitely tell a difference in my game.
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen S. – custom

Solid service

Thanks Highly recommend!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim N. – custom

Love it my first stick

Love it my first stick is a McDermott Heartbreaker paid 327.00 $about 15 years ago
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate W. – custom

All good/ lol

All good/ lol
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen R. – custom

Ralph Steven Dietz

How much does an extra shaft cost with this pool stick?
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah G. – custom

So i bought this cue

So i bought this cue as a Christmas gift for my pool playing brother, i dont have the skills to compete but he does. He has played his best since getting the “new stick” and is thrilled with it! The gift was a Hit! thankyou.
Rated 5 out of 5

Ann J. – custom

Superb stick

So far only used a few times and seems to be working well for me. Can’t wait to use more