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 GS05 Cue

Rated 4.90 out of 5 based on 21 customer ratings

(21 customer reviews)

Original price was: $365.00.Current price is: $328.50.

McDermott GS05 pool cue featuring 29″ standard maple shaft with pro taper shaft. G-Core.

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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)

McDermott Cue Manufacturing has produced premium American-made cues since 1975, setting industry standards for quality and innovation. The McDermott GS05 features 29″ standard maple shaft with pro taper shaft, Black Irish linen with green specks wrap for exceptional playability. The traditional Irish linen wrap offers excellent grip and moisture absorption during extended play.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 33 in
Tip	13mm, Navigator Black Medium
Ferrule	1" Ivorene ferrule
ColorSB	Green, Tan
Shaft	29" standard maple shaft with pro taper
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Black
Forearm	Michigan maple with Emerald green European organic stain , ÿMichigan maple with Emerald green European organic stainÿ
Wrap	Black Irish linen with green specks
Butt Sleeve	Michigan maple with Emerald green European organic stain
Butt Plate	Black composite with gold McDermott logo
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

21 reviews for McDermott GS05 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Rick W. – January 5, 2020

Amazing pool stick

So excited for my new pool cue. Shipped really quickly around Christmas time with absolutely no problems and the cue stick came in pristine conditions. The pool pool cue itself is amazing. Sleek look with a truly fluid feeing stroke.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah D. – March 29, 2020

Amazing Cue!!

I received this literally days before the quarantine. I was able to try this once before all bars were shut down. But, the short time we’re spent together was amazing!!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan A. – April 23, 2020

Pool Cue stick

I ordered a pool pool cue from the site and it was delivered promptly and packaged securely. I am extremely much enjoying my new pool cue. I will be shopping here again.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan A. – May 15, 2020

Pool stick

Honestly, i bought it for my fiance he loves it and shoots better with it No complaints.
Rated 4 out of 5

Chris P. – July 19, 2020

My second McDermott

This is my second McDermott cue stick. I do not know what my first McDermott is, but the shaft is stiffer, and I feel more confident because of that. I do love the green color of the GS05, and it is a great cue. I don’t think the deflection is too high, I just prefer a lower deflection stick.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue N. – September 14, 2020

mcdermott

I have been looking for a stick in the range of 300.00 for 3months. And chose this beauty for 178.00 bucks. I can’t wait to kick some butt. I will be back soon and give you a update. Thanks pooldawgs!!!! Steve No complaints.
Rated 5 out of 5

Bob W. – September 20, 2020

Pool stick and accessories

As I anticipated everything was on time and flawless. Thank you
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris R. – October 25, 2020

amazing cue

I would recommend this cue for any one. I bought mine in 2001 and shortly after quit playing due to a divorce. Put the cue in a carrying case in a non climate controlled storage for 7 years , I am now playing with the same cue stick at this time daily. No issues no warping still hits just as strong and accurate as the first day I bought it. I am a quite strong and firm believer in my McDermott cue
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave E. – November 7, 2020

First league

Playing in my first pool league ever. My teammate suggested I get this stick. I couldn’t be happier, wish i could say the same thing for the opposing team. The lifetime warranty is what i was drawn to when i purchased my new cue stick. I don’t know if I’ll ever need another stick stick. Although a little pricey for a beginner, i would still recommend the stick to anyone. Watch out, you’ll be seeing me in Vegas soon!!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve B. – December 14, 2020

I love my new cue.

I love my new cue stick. Matter of fact all my friends love that cue and are currently looking at your selection. I know they see my game improve and my confidence jump up. It’s nice to have a solid piece of equipment to compliment my ability.
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris B. – December 16, 2020

McDermott GS05 Pool Cue

In my experience, your Site is AWESOME; (and) The ONLY thing that could improve it is being able to put a Playing Tip like an Tiger Onyx on to an Breaking Stick; Such has the McDermott “Sledge Hammer” (or) The “Stinger” if we so wish. It would be an great “exclusive ability” from PoolDawg; if when we ordered from PoolDawg; if we could put ANY Tip; on ANY Stick; that we so wish. I would so play with an Stinger (or) Sledger Hammer with an Onyx on it! Then I could use 1 stick to Break (and) Play with; this would be So convenient; “especially” for those of us that ride our “Motorcycle” to the Bar or Pool Hall!
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah G. – December 30, 2020

Fantastic product, great service, rapid shipping

great cue and showed up way before I expected even during the holidays.
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris H. – September 6, 2022

Pool stick is wonderful

In my experience, pool stick is great No complaints.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jesse D. – June 9, 2023

I love this stick My

I am thrilled with this cue. My bank and long table angle shots have more than doubled in accuracy from the older cue stick I was using. I upgraded my tip to a soft tip to add more control on my curve shots. It’s actually a little too much control, so I have to dial down the amount of curve I’m applying – which is a good thing. Highly recommend this stick for beginner / intermediate players.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen A. – November 9, 2023

Bought the cue for my

Bought the cue for my Son, first year playing league pool as an Adult. He absolutely loves it, Pricey as shipped to Canada but entirely worth it.
Rated 5 out of 5

Drew N. – December 12, 2023

Great new selected tip performs

Great new selected tip performs as expected
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy A. – December 25, 2023

Outstanding cue stick feels and performs

Great stick, feels and performs well!
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley F. – March 13, 2024

Fantastic cue

Wonderful cue. Easy control, nice color.
Rated 4 out of 5

Casey N. – April 9, 2024

decent stick

nice pool cue, but if you actually are trying to improve your game, for this price, pooldawg offers pro level shafts that could really help polish out your game. For instance, I bought this cue before the discount and before I actually dove into learning what are the parts that make up a shaft and all of the different variations of shafts there are and how they effect your game, so after my research I sent my cue and case back and I couldn’t be more delighted, because I got more bang for my buck for only 49 cents more, go figure. So when I sent this cue back I ordered a 12.5 summit low deflection shaft, the action im69 cue, a 2 pack box of lava chalk, a 10 dime forever tip tool and a 2 shaft 1 butt bag for literally the same dollar amount. Anyone who likes this stick it should be coming in soon with a kamui clear black medium tip, definitely a great feel. go get em Highly recommend!
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen E. – April 14, 2024

My

This McCormack cue stick is well balanced & I’m glad to have it recommended to me by a top notch pool player.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sam J. – July 20, 2024

Warped cue GS05

It is minorly warped at the connector. If I tighten it real hard it will straighten out. With normal pressure the tip bounces around.