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!

Katana KATXS1 Shaft

Rated 4.95 out of 5 based on 44 customer ratings

(44 customer reviews)

Original price was: $299.00.Current price is: $149.50.

Katana KATXS1 Shaft. Precision shaft for improved cue ball control and consistency. Designed for serious players.

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SKU: KATXS1 Categories: Shafts, Standard Shafts Brand: Katana, Katana

Katana KATXS1 Shaft. Precision shaft for improved cue ball control and consistency. Designed for serious players. Shop the Katana KATXS1 Shaft at Quarter King Billiards. Free shipping on orders over $99.

Weight	0.9 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 3 in
UPC	822114010122
Tip	12.5mm Katana tip by Tiger
Ferrule	3/8" Fiber linen ferrule
Shaft	29" 10 piece, low-deflection Shaft , pro taper
Pin	3/8 x 10
Comes with case yes or no	Yes
Warranty	Limited
Select an option	10, 14, 14R, 18, 3010, 3014, 3014R, 3018, 30UNIR, 8, BLANK, CT/SCO, UNIBC, UNINC, UNIR

44 reviews for Katana KATXS1 Shaft

Rated 5 out of 5

Amy S. – custom

Katana LD shaft

Fantastic shaft especially for someone with small hands.
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate A. – custom

Katana KATXS1 – I am impressed by it!!!

What a wonderful company! They are here locally in Colorado, where I live. They went out of there way to help my girlfriend with the order when she was buying a Katana KATXS1 Low Deflection Pool Stick Shaft with a Kamui Clear Black Super Soft Stick Tip, for me for Christmas. They put on the tip on within an hour or so of her purchasing the shaft and then they shipped it out that day to make certain it got to me in time for Christmas at my parents house in my home town of Tucson, Arizona. The cue shaft is incredible! The first rack I ever played with it I had a break and run-out! I visualized my play pattern and positions and all but one shot I had left my cue ball within three inches of what I had planned for its placement! I use pretty extreme English on just about every shot I ever shoot and that requires a lot of mental work for the compensations needed, which now with this shaft I have so much less adjusting to compensate for. I am impressed by it!!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike H. – custom

Katana Stick Shaft

This is a good low deflection cue stick shaft for the price. I also have an OB1. For comparing the deflection of the two shafts i can’t see a big difference. The Katana performs great on extreme english shots and draws. After a couple of weeks with the shaft I got a Kamui tip installed on it. With the Kamui installed the performace of the shaft is even better. I think this shaft is a wise buy.
Rated 5 out of 5

Drew F. – custom

Tr̬s bon produit �� un prix tr̬s int̩ressant.

Un produit exceptionnel avec des sensations de jeu instantan̩es. Un finition vraiment propre et une prise en main imm̩diate et facile. Elle permet une facilit̩ de jeu et un travail de bille extra. Je suis m̻me ̩tonn̩ du changement radical apport̩ au r̩pondant de ma queue. Je la conseil �� tout ceux qui ne veulent pas se ruiner tout en ayant un mat̩riel exceptionnel.
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom R. – custom

Katana

I must admit, this shaft has a longer than normal taper. I don’t know what is beyond a Pro taper but this would be it. I switched from a 314 to the Katana because of thread differences when I switched cues. I didn’t like the tip that came on it not because of any construction issues just because I was more used to a Kamui Black Medium’s harder pocket (best tip ever!) but the Katana tip seemed similar to a Talisman or Molavia. I tried using my 314 after a couple months and couldn’t get over how much thicker it is (only 0.25mm larger) and really lost the feel for the predator. I really love this shaft and would suggest it to everyone and I even think it plays better than my 314. The biggest difference I’ve noticed with this shaft vs. other shafts is the ferrule. The ferrule is so short that if you use a chalk that has any kind of wear on it the edge of the chalk will rub on the wood below the ferrule if you’re not careful. I have to pay special attention to this area when I clean my shaft to be sure that a blue ring is not forming. Not a big deal and it’s not really even an issue.
Rated 4 out of 5

Beth J. – custom

Katana

Shaft had an extremely tight fit on my Mcdermott. Had to wax threads, and work it. Now working effectively. Shaft is extremely slightly smaller diameter at the joint than my butt. This my bother some people. Shadt handles quite well. Over all i really like it.
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen D. – custom

Katana

Shoots like a dream.
Rated 5 out of 5

Lisa R. – custom

Great Price.

I’m not going to leave a full reveiw as of yet. I got the shaft in excellent condition but had one issue. I ordered it to fit my Mcdermott cue and the threads were too tight and had to send it back to be re-tapped. Everyone I talked to at pooldawg was really helpful. I should get it back in a few days in time to start my next league session. I will leave a full review then….
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike R. – custom

Unilock shaft

Tried to find a 30″ shaft with a unilock insert could not find called pool dawg o.k. had one .thanks dawg
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave E. – custom

Exceptional knoledge and go the extra mile

i recieved this shaft i was going to get a used one basicly brand new i asked for a preview how it rolled and was about to get it shipped out the staff called me and said im not sure youd be happy with it and showd me a short video and from that i agreed so i got the new one and they gave a small discount exceptional ill buy again from these Pool Dawgs No complaints.
Rated 5 out of 5

Morgan E. – custom

final review

To be frank, back again n this is my final review. to put it simply… i really like it!! i have played with this shaft for months now it has all the work-ablility one could hope for from a shaft. i have allowed people to compare it to their more expensive LD shafts n they agree that if they could go back they would buy this shaft over their LD shafts because of how much cheaper it is. I have also gotten many comments on how i am able to move the cueball around the table to get leaves and breakouts when needed n i always tell them it’s because of the shaft! thank you katana!!!! i swear it will not disappoint!!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike M. – custom

Good shaft

Hit’s as good as a predator. I like the taper
Rated 5 out of 5

Taylor D. – custom

Katana shaft

excellent shaft great feedback on shots. Best pick up for the money. I have an ishaft and a tiger xld pro also.
Rated 5 out of 5

Alex S. – custom

Pool cue

I ordered on line. It was straightforward and the cue showed up within a couple days! Quite pleased with the item and service.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue E. – custom

Amazing shaft!

This is my first LDS and it has blown away my expectations. Very smooth contact with the ability to put a ton of English on the stick ball. Awesome shaft Would buy again.
Rated 5 out of 5

Kate M. – custom

Katana shaft

Very reliable low deflection shaft almost flawless
Rated 4 out of 5

Pat G. – custom

Shaft

To be frank, too early to really tell. I am an 80 year old 4. Player returning to the game. The shaft does fell better and lessens the deflection doubts I have.
Rated 5 out of 5

Mary S. – custom

Kanta shaft

To be frank, just as decent if not better than the high dollar shafts,hits an plays very well the 10 piece pie configuration is great,very sturdy, customer service is hands down the best of all that i have dealed with had a issue an they contacted me very content Money well spent.
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom E. – custom

Katana LD shaft

Without a doubt, this shaft is sturdy performer. Thanks for the deal you gave me PoolDawg.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sue B. – custom

Katana and kamui

I have to say, i have always have played with a mcdermott i stepped up to a coustom G core. Used it for a couple years it bent. I decided to step up to a Hybrid a friend of mine was using a Mcdermott with a Katana. I bowered it one night try it. I didnt miss a shot. I was hocked . Decided to git one. But change to a kamui tip. Always used a soft but i steped up to a medium. What a combination ! Im so glad i made the move my game is back. I suggest the combo. BillyO
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley W. – custom

Katana Shaft

Like this shaft plays super. Put this shaft on my Viking cue improved all aspects of my game. Looking at buying another. Did have the tip changed to a Kamui Black med fantastic tip but that’s another story.
Rated 5 out of 5

Pat W. – custom

Katana

He loves his new katana shaft and kumi super soft tip. He thinks it’s amazing.
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve E. – custom

Radically Awsome Shaft

I am impressed I have been playing tournaments for 10 years now and have gone from Viking to Meucci to predator and as powerful as my black dots are and as controlling as my 314_2 is this blew me away. I use to switch shafts to deal with table speed but this does it all English speed and control so I bought a second one .
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy S. – custom

Katana review

Amazing shaft. Excellent value
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley B. – custom

Katana KATXS1

I am delighted with every aspect of this purchase. The shaft fit my ancient Mali pool cue stick exactly as anticipated. The support and delivery from Pooldawghas been flawless. I can tell a difference in my game with the new shaft but also I can tell a difference in my wife’s game. This shaft is the real deal.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jesse H. – custom

Conclusion

Effectively I got my second shaft just in time as my first one got a bad ding on the taper so I had to put it in the lathe and cut it 12.35mm also I changed the tip to a Tiger Everest which I must say plays much better than the original one as I get more English with it an still almost no deflection . I also found that the difference with the taper the shaft was a little more flexible but both the original new and the re-tapered one played very nicely. I can screw on either one and do not have to do any readjustment for it. I will recommended the Katana to any one .
Rated 5 out of 5

Jesse F. – custom

Katana shaft exchange

I purchased a Lucasi custom cue from PoolDawg a few months ago. After a few weeks with the cue, I wasn’t comfortable with the shaft. I contacted customer service and was in contact with the manager Kevin Engilke. I asked if I could replace the Lucasi shaft with a more narrow shaft as the Katana 1. Kevin was very supportive and facilitated the exchange. I returned the Lacasi shaft and the Katana shaft was delivered within a few days. There was a nominal upgrade cost for the Katana 1 shaft which I paid. After spending practice time with the Katana 1, I realized the Katana wasn’t right for my game. I contacted Kevin and arranged the exchange for the original Lucasi shaft. There was no problem exchanging the shafts and received credit for the return of the Katana shaft. I would like to thank Kevin for his understanding. Certainly would suggest PoolDawg to anyone looking to purchase a new cue. Thank you Kevin Engelke and PoolDawg for your cooperation. Chuck Scalesse [email protected]
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen G. – custom

Stellar shaft

I received my shaft last and since I started using it, I saw a big difference fromy old shaft. I am more accurate with my shots, and have better stick ball controll. I up graded to the kumui soft tip and I love it. I feel this shaft has improved my accuracy and cue ball control. If you are looking for a good quality shaft at a decent price, this is that shaft to get, I would recommend this this to anyone who want to improve their game Satisfied customer here.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan T. – custom

Katana low deflection shaft

It took a little while to get use to the shaft, but once I stopped babying shots and went back to letting the shaft out I adore it. Decent price and service from Pooldawg was terrific
Rated 5 out of 5

Mike C. – custom

Katana Low Deflection Shaft

I would highly recommend this shaft. I really enjoy the feel and I upgraded the tip to a Kamui Black super soft and it is awesome.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dan W. – custom

Awesome shaft!!

I must admit, i recently bought the Katana XS1 low deflection shaft and put it on the butt of my Lucasi LZD5 and I gotta say, as an avid pool enthusiast, that this shaft has met every expectation, and then some, I had for it. I also put the Kamui super soft tip on it and that as well was a better pick up compared to the elk tips I’m used to. I play in bca league and tournaments though the week and shooting that much I see the difference in how much English I get out of it and how well the ball control is. I would definitely suggest this shaft and tip to anyone that wants to add definition to their game.
Rated 5 out of 5

Rick H. – custom

Amazed

Had been playing with my standard 13mm Viking shaft before I got this bad boy in the mail. I am blown away at the performance/price ration of this shaft. I’ve hit around with McDermott’s OB’s and even the new Viking X-Act Shot (or however you spell it) and adore my Katana over all of them. Worth every penny especially for the wonderful price. My consistency of shots has improved dramatically and the mean amount of English I put on this shaft doesn’t phase it at all. Couldn’t recommend highly enough. Lovely and buttery smooth through the fingers. I wish someone had told me about the Katana a long time ago. Also if you have a Viking butt make sure you request to have the Katana tapped out for the quick release pin that you likely have. I had to send my Katana back to get this done. Once I got it back though I’ve been in heaven. May your stroke be straight and your aim be true.
Rated 5 out of 5

Casey B. – custom

Katana pool shaft

Have enjoyed playing with this stick, has helped improved my game. Excellent choice!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Tom E. – custom

Similar to a 314 Shaft

One of the really nice things about working here at PoolDawg is that I get to test out a ton of products. The Katana shaft is a fairly new entry into the low deflection market competing with the Predator 314 shaft and the OB1 shaft. The shaft has a somewhat longer taper and is slightly thinner at 12.5mm in comparison to the 12.75mm 314 and OB1 shafts. From a performance perspective it felt extremely similar to the 314. There was not a noticeable difference in deflection between the three shafts. As you might recall we asked a few folks to review this shaft a while back and the response from them was pretty similar to what I found personally. To give you an idea of the level of pool cue ball control you can get with this shaft check out the Youtube video which was shot by the infamous blogger OMGWTF.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jordan K. – custom

Good service

Had cust support interaction all went well.
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen N. – custom

review of shaft

I must admit, i just purchased this katana($143.20)ld shaft after months of research on the different kinds i could get for my mcdermott cue and i will submit a more in depth review when i can contact more shots with it. i have only strike a couple draw shots and some inside english rail shots but from what i could tell the hits were solid and it felt nice. the draw had some good zip and the taper of the stick is not as narrow as some people think. i will post another comment in about a week for those who want to know about a cheaper alternative to the more popular predator($213+) ld shaft.
Rated 5 out of 5

John D. – custom

review update

so its been a week n i have played with this shaft alot. i love it n recommend it to others. i let some fellow pool players try it out n they liked it too infact i know of at least two friends who are going to purchase one for their cues. like i said before the tip that comes with the cues is a nice tip and im still getting used to it but i might change the type of tip once this one needs to be repleced but that is only my personal preference. the shaft gets an A in my book especially for the cost!
Rated 5 out of 5

John N. – custom

My first katanna

I must admit, has a outstanding feel and low deflection. Improved accuracy and aim which improves skill level. Amazing shaft.
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris J. – custom

As advertised, wish I would

As advertised, wish I would bought this years ago
Rated 5 out of 5

Mary N. – custom

Katana 1

Very happy with the LD design. A bit thin and whippy at first, but got used to it, now I like it — 12.50 Kamoi soft.
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy L. – custom

The shaft plays good and

The shaft plays good and hit outstanding A+ purchase.
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve P. – custom

Katana and PoolDawg rock

I’ve only had the shaft for day and can see the difference already. It will take a little while to get used to it but I like it. Many thanks to Keven at PoolDawg for going the extra mile to make it fit my stick.
Rated 5 out of 5

Jim C. – custom

Fantastic shaft

Without a doubt, my game has improved because of this Katana shaft
Rated 5 out of 5

Taylor W. – custom

Katana shaft review

These shafts are great definitely priced right the price point they have low deflection and give amazing action on the cue ball.