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 G402 Cue

Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 3 customer ratings

(3 customer reviews)

Original price was: $730.00.Current price is: $657.00.

McDermott G402 pool cue. G-Core technology shaft. 13mm tip. Made in USA.

Select an option

Clear

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 G402 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 high impact plastic with a thin gold ring inside
Forearm: Birdseye Maple with Natural Walnut with American cherry stained floating points encased with Recon Ebony veneers
Wrap: Black Irish linen with brown specks
Butt sleeve: Birdseye Maple with Rosewood and maple rings encasing floating Recon Ebony and maple diamonds
Butt plate: Black composite 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	Pink
Shaft	29" G-Core technology, CT Technology, Triple layer design
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Black high impact plastic with a thin gold ring inside , Black high impact plastic with a thin gold ring insideÿ
Forearm	Birdseye Maple with Natural Walnut with American cherry stained floating points encased with Recon Ebony veneers
Wrap	Black Irish linen with brown specks
Butt Sleeve	Birdseye Maple with Rosewood and maple rings encasing floating Recon Ebony and maple diamonds, Birdseye Maple with Rosewood and maple rings encasing floating Recon Ebony and maple diamondsÿ
Butt Plate	Black composite with gold McDermott logo, Black composite with gold McDermott logoÿ
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

3 reviews for McDermott G402 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Bob T. – March 16, 2020

Great cue, Excellent warranty!

Cue has a durable feel and hit and has a make sound. Some cues have a harsh sound when you strike the cue ball this cuie has a soft quality sound. It also does not transfer any vibration back when you pocket the cue ball. It also comes with a life time warranty and they stand behind it, I know because after having the cue for about six months it developed a extremely slieght bow. I live in Wisconsin, close to the plant that makes the cues, so I took it in. I showed it to Jennifer at the front desk, she checked it and said, yes they would replace the shaft no charge. Had the shaft done in two weeks, Jennifer had it shipped out to me and I recieved it the very next day. Thank you Jennifer.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jordan C. – November 5, 2021

McDermott G402 pool stick

I love my McDermott G402 pool cue. It is as much stunning as it is functional. Just got through using it in the CSI Oklahoma State tournament and it performed nicely. Properly done by pool dawg as usual.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan C. – October 11, 2025

Can’t go wrong

Great service, top-notch pricing. All questions answered about the cue. Shipped the next day with no freight. I’ll continue to purchase from PoolDawg.