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.

Viking VIK352 Cue

Rated 4.80 out of 5 based on 5 customer ratings

(5 customer reviews)

$550.00

Viking VIK352 pool cue featuring 29″ VIKORE Performance Shaftÿ shaft. ViKORE shaft technology.

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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!

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No problem! Leave your weight preference in "additional notes" at checkout and we will happily re-weight it for you! (between 18oz-21oz)

SKU: VIK352 Categories: Pool Cues, Viking Cues Brand: Viking, Viking

Viking Cues, handcrafted in Wisconsin since 1965, combines Scandinavian-inspired design with American craftsmanship. The Viking VIK352 features 29″ VIKORE Performance Shaftÿ shaft, None, coffee stained maple wrap for exceptional playability. Built for intermediate to advanced, this cue represents serious investment in your game.

Weight	1.4 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 34 in
Tip	13mm Tiger Everest
Ferrule	1" Viking Super Ferrule
ColorSB	Red
Shaft	29" VIKORE Performance Shaftÿ
Pin	Viking Quick-Release
Collar	None
Forearm	Birdseye maple with four inlaid coffee stained inlaid points
Wrap	None, coffee stained maple
Butt Sleeve	Coffee stained maple
Butt Plate	None, silver Viking logo
Bumper	Threaded black rubber bumper
Weight Changable	Yes
Type of weight bolt	WBVIK
Comes With Joint Protector?	No
Comes With Extension?	No
Comes With Case?	No
Select an option	18, 19, 20, 21
Warranty	Lifetime
Made in	US

5 reviews for Viking VIK352 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Sam P. – October 26, 2020

Very nice SP cue that actually looks like a bar cue

I have the blonde version of his stick that I use for my APA league. It shoots pretty consistently and the Vikore shaft is much better for low deflection than a traditional maple shaft, but not as low as the Predator or OB shafts. Fit and finish is nice. There is no collar around the joints or the bottom of the butt, so it appears like an actual bar cue (I adore that it is like this since it’s a Sneaky Pete). The quick release is very convenient too and it is secure once it’s screwed on. I’ve never had it come loose during play. Plus, Viking has a lifetime warranty and my experience with their customer service has been good.
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate P. – April 23, 2021

I was hesitant to order

I was hesitant to order this cue, I originally wanted to order the McDermott sneaky pete cue but all 3 were out of stock so I went ahead and ordered the Viking and I am not disappointed whatsoever! I appreciate the McDermott Brand but I had purchased a Viking previous to my latest and was not disappointed then either, needless to say I am quite happy with the way it handles and the tip is also something else!! #fanofvikingcues
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave F. – October 1, 2021

Cue stick & Viking hard carrying case

Very Happy with both. Quality & beauty as well. I was really satisfied with your service. Thank You, B. A. “Lee” Harris III
Rated 4 out of 5

Jesse A. – December 11, 2021

Solid cue

It’s a little pricey but it’s a beautiful cue. It looks like a house pool cue from far away but when you hold it under the light and look at it you can tell it’s a high craftsmanship cue (the colors shaft kind of gives it away too). The only complaint I have it the quick release joint seems to take away from the low deflection compared to standard jointed cues I’ve shot with.
Rated 5 out of 5

Rick R. – July 22, 2022

Been playing with this pool cue

Been playing with this cue for a few weeks. I’m truly enjoying the way this cue feels when shooting. Feels really natural and familiar. Tip performs nicely after a bit of shaping and conditioning. Overall presentation as a sneaky is fantastic! Keep it near you, as it definitely gets picked up by strangers.