Question 1

What weight pool cue should I choose?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

What is low deflection in pool cues and is it worth it?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

How much should I spend on my first quality pool cue?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

What tip size is best - 11mm, 12mm, or 13mm?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

Carbon fiber shaft vs wood - which is better?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What brands make the best pool cues?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

How do I know if a pool cue shaft is warped?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Do I need separate break and playing cues?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

What is the difference between 1-piece and 2-piece cues?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

How often should I replace my cue tip?

Accepted Answer

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.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 33 in
Tip	11.75mm Navigator Blue Impact super soft
Ferrule	Ivorine III
ColorSB	Green, Grey, White
Shaft	29" i-3 Shaft Eurpean Taper
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Black with silver dashes
Forearm	Light Grey stained Birdseye maple
Wrap	Black with white speck Irish linen. Silver dashed index rings on each side of wrap.
Butt Sleeve	Light Grey stained Birdseye maple with 6 green urethane clover and white urethane diamond inlays
Butt Plate	Black 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

Call Us 844 408 3056

McDermott SL3 Select Cue

Currently Out of Stock

Similar Products Available

Free Shipping

9-5 Support

15 Day Return Policy

Secure Payments

Quick Link

Contact Us

Our Newsletter

Payment option

McDermott SL3 Select Cue

Currently Out of Stock

Similar Products Available

Related products

Elite EP34 Cue

Action ACT167 Garage Cue

Balabushka GB25 Cue

Athena ATH51 Cue

Complete Your Setup

Eight Ball Mafia EBMC22E Case

Eight Ball Mafia EBMC35E Case

QK-S 3×5 Barracks Soft Case QKS15 LT GREY Lt Grey

Action 2×2 Sport Hard Cue Case ACX22A

Quick Link

Contact Us

Our Newsletter

Payment option