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 VIK505 Cue

Rated 4.86 out of 5 based on 7 customer ratings

(7 customer reviews)

$530.00

Viking VIK505 pool cue featuring 29″ ViKORE Hard Rock Maple, 12-14″ Pro Taper 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: VIK505 Categories: Pool Cues, Viking Cues Brand: Viking, Viking

Viking Cues, handcrafted in Wisconsin since 1965, combines Scandinavian-inspired design with American craftsmanship. The Viking VIK505 features 29″ ViKORE Hard Rock Maple, 12-14″ Pro Taper shaft, Black with glitter spec Irish linen wrap for exceptional playability. The traditional Irish linen wrap offers excellent grip and moisture absorption during extended play. 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	Black, Tan
Shaft	29" ViKORE Hard Rock Maple, 12-14" Pro Taper
Pin	Viking Quick-Release
Collar	Black with silver dots and rings
Forearm	Midnight black stained northwoods maple
Wrap	Black with glitter spec Irish linen
Butt Sleeve	Midnight black stained northwoods maple
Butt Plate	Black with Silver Viking Logo
Bumper	Viking threaded bumper BUMPVIK
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

7 reviews for Viking VIK505 Cue

Rated 5 out of 5

Pat B. – August 4, 2020

Flawless cue

I must admit, love my pool pool cue, it’s my first one and I took third in a tournament that I wouldn’t have been able to do without this stick. Everything about it is wonderful!
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan W. – June 11, 2021

Viking cue

I love the cue it is awesome, and I got it quick.
Rated 4 out of 5

Beth K. – June 29, 2021

vikore shaft is a winner.

i like the vikore better than mcdermotts g core shaft. the workmanship in the butt section seems to have dropped off from years ago.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jordan F. – April 7, 2023

Outstanding stick awesome service

Ordered the Viking cue and it was shipped out within 24hrs! Came well packaged and perfectly as described. Wonderful company to do business with!
Rated 5 out of 5

Sarah E. – April 22, 2023

Superb stick

I used to have a Viking pool cue back in the late 70’s and I loved it, the feel of this cue is great, am impressed by it
Rated 5 out of 5

Casey H. – April 26, 2023

This thing looks and feels amazing

I got this cue and the Viking siege carbon fiber shaft to go on it. Highly endorse.
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate M. – July 1, 2023

Good cue to buy.

To be frank, i wanted something to use for a long time. It’s been 3 weeks playing with this cue and it’s fantastic. The style is very minimal which I like. I opted for the 20oz and the draw is decent. The follow through feels decent and the balance is pleasant.