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	3.5 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 34 in
UPC	822114046626, 822114046633, 822114046640, 822114046657, 822114046664
WrapType	Linen Wrap
ShaftSize	13.00mm
Brand	Athena
JointType	5/16X18 – Piloted
Tip	13mm, 7 layered vacuum sealed proprietary boar skin tip
ColorSB	Black, Purple, Silver
Ferrule	1" Fiber linen ferrule
Shaft	29" Hard rock maple, 10-12" Pro taper
Pin	Piloted 5/16 x 18
Collar	Silver
Forearm	Black with 4 purple points and silver ring
Wrap	Black Linen Wrap
Butt Sleeve	Black with a muitple color skull
Butt Plate	Black composite with silver Athena logo
Bumper	Action plug bumper – BUMPACT
Weight Changable	Yes
Type of weight bolt	WBACT
Comes With Joint Protector?	No
Comes With Extension?	No
Comes With Case?	No
Select an option	17, 18, 19, 20, 21
Warranty	Limited
Made in	China

Call Us 844 408 3056

Athena ATH56 Cue

Free Shipping

9-5 Support

15 Day Return Policy

Secure Payments

Quick Link

Contact Us

Our Newsletter

Payment option

Athena ATH56 Cue

Related products

Elite ELBJC Break/Jump Cue

Athena ATH04 Cue

Elite EP34 Cue

Elite ELBJZ Break/Jump Cue

Complete Your Setup

Voodoo 2×2 Papa Legba Stitch Hard Case VODC22D

Athena 2×2 Hard Case ATHC01

Athena 2×2 Hard Case ATHC03

Athena 2×2 Hard Embroidered Cue Case ATHC06

Quick Link

Contact Us

Our Newsletter

Payment option