Fourth, the most important part of the cue stick is the tip. It varies in diameter from 12 mm to 14 mm. Again, choosing what size tips depends on your personal preference. Simply make sure that the tip is round and not flat (Figure 2). Players who use a lot of english prefer a much rounder tip.
Figure 2
You may also want to purchase a "break" cue used solely for breaking balls. Turn to the next page on tips for selecting a break cue. If you have even more money to spare, purchase a jump cue as well.
If you bought an expensive cue stick for your regular use, it is advisable that you do not use it for breaking as it shortens the longetivity of your regular cue stick. With this in mind, you might want to purchase a separate cue stick just for breaking or any other "special" shot (eg. jumping the cue ball, masse, etc).
Here are some points to consider if you plan to buy a break cue:
- Consider choosing a slightly bigger tip than your regular cue stick. A larger tip means more chances of making contact with the cue ball on your break. Keep in mind that since you are hitting the cue ball very hard and your backhand extension is farther than normal, it is difficult to hit the cue ball exactly at the center... so it makes sense that if you have a larger tip, the likelyhood of a miscue is minimized.
- As opposed to your regular cue stick, the tip for your break cue should be a little flatter. Like the first tip above, this also minimizes the chances of a miscue.
- Consider a lighter weight than your regular cue stick. This enables you to drive the stick farther on your follow through thus giving more speed on the cue ball. Although a lot of players will argue that a heavier stick will give you more power, I would recommend a lighter cue stick for the reason that I stated. However, this is a matter of preference. Use whatever is more comfortable for you.
- Consult with the cue stick manufacturer on which materials is best and more durable. Consult more than one manufacturer so you can have a basis for comparison.
