How to choose a snooker cue

Club cues are fine for a first few games. But once you start playing regularly, your own cue (one that's the same every time you pick it up) is the single biggest kit upgrade you can make. Here's what to look for.

Length

Most snooker cues are about 57–58 inches (around 145cm) long. Taller players often prefer a slightly longer cue and shorter players a slightly shorter one. A rough check: stood upright, the cue should reach somewhere around your shoulder or chin. Extensions that screw or slide onto the butt help with long shots.

Weight

Snooker cues usually weigh between about 17 and 19oz (roughly 480–540g). Heavier cues can feel more solid; lighter ones can feel more responsive. There's no right answer, so try a few if you can.

Tip size

Snooker cue tips are typically 9–10mm across. Smaller tips give a little more precision for spin; larger ones are more forgiving. English pool cues usually have smaller tips, around 8–9mm, to suit the smaller balls.

Wood: ash or maple

• Ash is the traditional choice for British snooker. It has a visible grain, which many players use to help line up shots.
• Maple is smooth and plain-grained. It's common on pool cues and preferred by some snooker players.

One-piece or jointed

A one-piece cue has no joint, and some players feel it plays more consistently. A three-quarter jointed cue unscrews about three-quarters of the way down, so it fits a shorter case and is much easier to carry to a club, which is why many club players choose one.

What should a first cue cost?

Very roughly, beginner cues start from around £30–80. A good-quality ash cue from an established maker typically costs from about £80 to £250, and hand-made cues from specialist cue makers can cost considerably more. UK makers such as Peradon and John Parris have long histories in the game. Budget for a case to protect it, and a spare tip.

Looking after your cue

• Keep it in a case, away from radiators and damp. Big changes in temperature and humidity can warp wood.
• Wipe the shaft after playing.
• Re-tip when the tip flattens or won't hold chalk. Many clubs can recommend someone who re-tips cues.

Ready to try it out? Find a snooker club near you.