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!

McDermott MCDI2 Intimidator 2 Shaft

Rated 4.62 out of 5 based on 21 customer ratings

(21 customer reviews)

Original price was: $345.00.Current price is: $310.50.

McDermott MCDI2 Intimidator 2 Shaft. Precision shaft for improved cue ball control and consistency. Designed for serious players.

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McDermott MCDI2 Intimidator 2 Shaft. Precision shaft for improved cue ball control and consistency. Designed for serious players. Shop the McDermott MCDI2 Intimidator 2 Shaft at Quarter King Billiards. Free shipping on orders over $99.

Weight	0.9 lbs
Dimensions	3 × 3 × 33 in
Tip	12.75mm, Navigator Blue Impact Soft
Ferrule	5/8" Fiber ferrule
Shaft	29” AAA grade Canadian hard rock maple with 15" pro taper. Shaft also has a black composite collar with a Recon turquoise stone inlay sandwiched by two thin silver rings and a piloted brass insert
Pin	3/8×10
Collar	Black
Warranty	Lifetime
Select an option	10, 14, 18

21 reviews for McDermott MCDI2 Intimidator 2 Shaft

Rated 4 out of 5

Chris A. – March 3, 2020

One of the better shafts

One of the better shafts I have played with.
Rated 4 out of 5

Sue N. – March 21, 2020

shaft came with a messed up joint.

I ordered the shaft and unfortunately it came with as messed up joint. I contacted pooldawg and they returned it next day air. They had the shaft ready to go and ship as soon as shaft was returned. I am extremely satisfied with the shaft it performs terrific and I appreciate you go for taking care of me. I will definitely buy from you guys again.
Rated 5 out of 5

Sam E. – March 24, 2020

McDermott Cue Stick with the Intimidator shaft

Without a doubt, with the lock down here in Mich. haven’t been able to shoot much pool ! But from the time I first received it and started playing with it I noticed a big difference in my game! Of course there was an adjustment period, but after that WOW, even my friends noticed how much better I am ! Thanks Toby for helping me out on my purchase ! Will pick up again !
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy W. – April 13, 2020

I-2 review

I didn’t know whether I should go for the DEFY carbon shaft or the I-2, but with some of the negatives regarding carbon fiber shafts, I gave the I-2 a try. Glad I did. Can’t imagine the DEFY, or any carbon fiber, being better. Really happy with the I-2 shaft.
Rated 4 out of 5

Mary R. – May 15, 2020

Seamless

Overall it’s a good shaft. Can get a ton of English without having to adjust for too much deflection. Only drawback is having to send it to McDermott so they can fit it to my McDermott shaft. Found out this is a very common issue but a bit bothersome. Hopefully have it back soon to see how it performs without the lip which may not bother some players but it’s part of my preshot ritual to slide across the joint and it was driving me crazy that it wasn’t smooth.
Rated 4 out of 5

Sam N. – June 13, 2020

Precise control but muffled feel

I have to say, the McDermott Intimidator i2 is absolutely a tour quality shaft. The contact feels well-built and is incredibly consistent; I’ve played with many shafts and this one helps me pocket with very precise english again and again. Also the intricate construction of the shaft really comes through and you feel how well built it is. The only gripe I have is that the feel is somewhat muffled; I like the sensation of the hit to be full in my right hand. This shaft’s pocket is extremely short and solid with a crisp finish.
Rated 5 out of 5

Drew H. – July 19, 2020

Quality cue and lifetime warranty

Quality cue stick and lifetime warranty is a must that is included. The feel and strike is solid. The deflection is on point as properly. This cue is a must if you want to improve. Just spitting with it will improve your game right off the bat.
Rated 4 out of 5

Drew B. – August 16, 2020

I2 shaft

Without a doubt, great shaft, fantastic PoolDawg service as always
Rated 4 out of 5

Beth R. – August 26, 2020

Excellent shaft!

Great shaft!
Rated 5 out of 5

Jen H. – August 28, 2020

McDermott I-2 shaft

I must admit, excellent service. Immediate shipment. The shaft arrived exactly as described and handles beautifully. Will not hesitate to use PoolDawg in the future.
Rated 5 out of 5

Dave P. – September 26, 2020

I 2 shaft

The shaft works pretty good,I had a soft morri tip on it,and draws back real solid
Rated 5 out of 5

Riley D. – December 17, 2020

Amazing Pool cue Shaft

From my perspective, i upgraded from a G-Core to the I-2 shaft. I’m extremely impressed on the difference in hit. Spin and stick ball control are at a different level with this shaft.
Rated 5 out of 5

Karen P. – December 17, 2020

I-2shaft

I ordered the intimidator shaft with a tip upgrade. Pooldawg did not disappoint! The i-2shaft was a perfect fit on my McDermott stick , super fluid and great feel when making contact. The kamui tip upgrade is on the mark . Pooldawg shipped it out the early Am and it came in in time for me to use . Thanks!
Rated 5 out of 5

Chris K. – January 12, 2023

This shaft is much better

To be frank, this shaft is much better then the the low deflection shaft that came with my stick
Rated 5 out of 5

Steve S. – April 13, 2023

amazing low deflection shaft

To be frank, i ordered this I-2 shaft with a kamui medium clear tip…i adore the feel of the hit,plus the low deflection was the finest i have used!…i would recommend this to anyone..would spend the money again,easily!!
Rated 5 out of 5

Mary K. – May 15, 2023

mcdermott intimidator 2 shaft

i absolutely love the feel of the pocket with this shaft…it seems to have the lowest deflection of any shaft i have tried yet!….i cannot get over the feeling of the hit..amazing…would definitely vouch for this to anyone.
Rated 5 out of 5

Amy G. – July 11, 2023

Incredible cue shaft that’s worth the money.

This shaft is exceptional. The play and feel is so smooth and the ball control amazing. I’m glad that I purchased this shaft to upgrade the G-core shaft that came standard on my cue. It is properly a good deal it and I’d endorse it even to people without a McDermott stick as I’m sure the service team can do many different joint threads. My experience with McDermott has been second to none.
Rated 5 out of 5

Beth L. – January 14, 2024

Got last week the shaft

Got last week the shaft handles quite well pleasant and silky no vibrations at all.
Rated 5 out of 5

Morgan A. – September 11, 2024

Very nice

Extremely nice
Rated 4 out of 5

Dave M. – November 9, 2024

Excellent mid deflection shaft

Outstanding support from the Pooldawg team, but has of now I havent received my order because UPS might have lost it. Still waiting. But I already have a i2 shaft: Deflection: medium not super low deflection but a lot less then maple shaft or G-Core. Play: well-built hit, nice taper, adore the small ferule. Feel: amazing, good combination between traditional maple shaft and stiff low deflection shaft. Thank for the support PoolDawg cant wait to get it.
Rated 4 out of 5

Rick G. – April 22, 2025

Packaging miscue, runout player customer service

Curiously, I‘m being asked to review a product that hasn’t been tried as it was damaged in shipment. Here goes… Christian has been providing outstanding customer service! I can’t wait to put the replacement in play. I‘ve strike them before and found the I2 to be the top-notch LD shaft for me. bd