Owning and playing with your own cue is essential if you are hoping to progress and develop your ability at snooker. The cue is the most important element in your game and should be chosen carefully to suit your own needs and requirements.

This may seem like common sense, but it is surprising how many people choose to play with a variety of cues and are then confused as to why they fail to improve. I have known decent amateur players with numerous cues, swopping and changing as the mood takes them, often to the detriment of their overall game.

All cues play differently and it takes a while to familiarise yourself completely with your chosen cue. Only regular practice with the same cue will provide the repetition necessary for you to become completely at one with your snooker cue.

The normal length of a cue is in the region of 58 inches, with the best cues made from ash or maple. Ash cues tend to have a heavier grain, which is more visible than maple. This grain can assist your sighting when cueing down on the shot and enables you to hold the cue in the same position for each shot. Maple cues have a more subdued grain.

The recommended weight is around 17 ounces and the cue should feel balanced, particularly in the shaft. Weight is often inserted into the butt of the cue approximately 12 to 18 inches from the base, which is why the shaft often feels heavy.

Tip sizes vary, but the standard size is 10mm. Some play with a 9millimetre tip and others with an 11mm, but for players new to the game a larger tip size is recommended. A ferrule should be attached to the end of the cue, which the tip attaches to. The ferrule prevents the end of the cue from splitting and protects the cue when replacing a tip.

Caring for your cue is vital because of its importance to your game. In addition a cue may last for years if properly looked after.

Avoid leaving your cue in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Keep the cue clean with a damp cloth and wash your hands before you play. Never stand the cue up against a wall, as eventually this may cause it to warp.

The Frank Callan Suite - 8 Collinson Street - Ribbleton - Preston - PR1 5EY
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