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!

Outlaw OL33 Pool Cue, Multi-Color, Leather Wrap

Original price was: $359.00.Current price is: $323.10.

Outlaw OL33 playing cue featuring hard maple shaft, 13mm layered tip, 5/16×18 joint. Authorized dealer pricing, free shipping over $99.

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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)

Description
Specifications

The Outlaw OL33 is a playing cue built for the serious player who demands consistency, repeatable feel, and a build that holds up to weekly league and tournament use. It’s a sensible pick for the league regular, the home-table competitor, or any player ready to step up from a starter cue into something that will hold its value over years of play.

At the business end you’ll find a 13mm 7-layered tip mounted on a 1″ Fiber linen ferrule, a pairing that gives the cue grip on the cue ball without the chalk-heavy maintenance some setups demand. The shaft is 29″ hardrock maple, 10 – 12″ pro taper, brass insert, a profile chosen for a smooth stroke and predictable delivery. Joint construction is 5/16X18 – Piloted. Grip detail: Stacked saddlebag leather wrap. Forearm construction is brown stained maple with designs “branded” by hand using a blowtorch. with hints of turquoise colored accents, with the same treatment carried into the butt sleeve for visual continuity.

This is the kind of cue that fits naturally into weekly league play, casual room time, and the occasional tournament weekend. The combination of build quality and balanced weight makes it forgiving enough for newer players while leaving plenty of headroom for players developing their stroke.

Outlaw Cues are built by Cuestix with bold western-themed graphics, leather wraps, and value-priced construction aimed at the league player who wants a cue with personality. The Outlaw lineup ships factory-direct through authorized dealers.

Product Highlights

Pre-installed 13mm 7-layered tip
29" hardrock maple, 10 – 12" pro taper, brass insert – low-deflection profile for accurate english
Classic 5/16×18 joint for a traditional wood-on-wood hit
1" Fiber linen ferrule for impact resistance and consistent cue ball response
Leather wrap for a premium grip and lasting durability
Choose from 3 color options: Blue, Brown, Red
Outlaw signature western-themed graphics and leather wrap

Quarter King Billiards is an authorized Outlaw dealer when applicable, with cues shipped factory-fresh and backed by the manufacturer’s warranty. US orders over $99 ship free, and our staff plays the game – drop us a message if you want a second opinion on weight, balance, or shaft pairing before you order.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 34 in
UPC	822114008426, 822114008433, 822114008457, 822114008464
Tip	13mm 7-layered tip
ColorSB	Blue, Brown, Red
Ferrule	1" Fiber linen ferrule
Shaft	29" hardrock maple, 10 – 12" pro taper, brass insert
Pin	Piloted 5/16 x 18
Collar	Stainless steel
Forearm	Brown stained maple with designs "branded" by hand using a blowtorch. With hints of Turquoise colored accents
Wrap	Stacked saddlebag leather wrap
Butt Sleeve	Brown stained maple with designs "branded" by hand using a blowtorch
Butt Plate	Stainless steel with etched Outlaw logo
Bumper	Black rubber
Weight Changable	Yes
Type of weight bolt	WBOL
Comes With Joint Protector?	No
Comes With Extension?	No
Comes With Case?	No
Select an option	18, 19, 20, 21
Warranty	1 Year Manufacture
Made in	China