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.

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McDermott HD42 Cue

Rated 5.00 out of 5 based on 8 customer ratings

(8 customer reviews)

Price range: $477.00 through $499.50

McDermott HD42 pool cue featuring 29″ G-Core 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)

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McDermott Cue Manufacturing has produced premium American-made cues since 1975, setting industry standards for quality and innovation. The McDermott HD42 features 29″ G-Core shaft with pro taper shaft, Black and brown Irish linen 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 Tip
Ferrule	1/2" Ivorene ferrule
ColorSB	Grey
Shaft	29" G-Core shaft with pro taper
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Black
Forearm	Harley-Davidson® Dark Custom Graphic
Wrap	Black and brown Irish linen
Butt Sleeve	Harley-Davidson? Dark Custom Graphic
Butt Plate	Black
Bumper	Black
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

8 reviews for McDermott HD42 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah R. – March 22, 2020

my purchase experience

Affordable prices online delivery ,would definitely purchase again
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen W. – December 10, 2020

Perfect

I got the stick as a gift and it was just ideal. He loves it for beauty and performance.
Rated 5 out of 5

Casey W. – April 6, 2021

Terrific cue

Without a doubt, excellent cue
Rated 5 out of 5

Casey G. – April 21, 2023

Great Stick

Very pleased with the pool cue and PoolDawg experience! No issues at all.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jordan H. – August 11, 2024

Excellent customer service

The young lady that answered the phone was polite and got my sticks out right away. Excellent customer Service definitely will be back Thank you A+ purchase.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen W. – February 19, 2025

Great Cue

I must admit, this is the first time I have owned my own Cue, the pool cue came with a small defect in the string wrap. Pool Dawg fixed it in house free of charge and it looks better than the factory wrap. Thanks for taking care of this small issue.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue C. – August 11, 2025

Mc Dermott & Harley Davidson

Absolutely appreciate it!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jesse G. – September 9, 2025

HD42

Fantastic cue, order shipped quickly, completely satisfied!

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

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McDermott HD42 Cue

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8 reviews for McDermott HD42 Cue

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McDermott HD42 Cue

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8 reviews for McDermott HD42 Cue

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