How to Choose the Best Pool Cue at a Public Pool Hall

Unless you bring along your two-piece pool cue, you'll have to select one of the house's cues when you're out playing at the pool hall, bar or bowling alley. These cues are frequently warped and wobbly due to age, use and storage, but if you spend a few minutes, you can determine which one is best for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An array of pool cues
• A pool table

1. Pick up one cue at a time until you find one that is a comfortable length and weight for you.

2. When you find one you like, hold the cue with both hands and point the tip toward the ground, holding the butt end near one eye. Close the other eye and look at the straightness of the cue. Rotate the cue slowly to see if there is any significant curvature.

3. If it looks reasonably straight, lay it on the pool table and push it from one side of the table to the other, causing it to roll. If it is warped, it will wobble while rolling. Straight cues roll smoothly. If the cue wobbles, keep looking for another cue of appropriate length and weight.

Tips & Warnings

• Even if you're just playing for fun and don't particularly care about playing well, taking time to choose the best cue can make your game much more satisfying.