The game of pool is an extremely competitive table game that features two players facing off in an effort to sink their designated pool balls before the other player does. This game is commonly seen in arcades and bars across the nation.
One of the most important aspects relating to this game is the pool stick. The stick is the player's main tool that allows them to aim their shots and make strategic plays on the pool table.
Finding the right pool stick can provide a major advantage when playing in a competitive game of pool. The level of comfort that a stick provides is extremely important so that you are capable of making the shots that you desire. There are different types of pool sticks that focus on presenting slightly modified designs so that players can find one that fits their specific needs.
This list includes five of the most popular options that have even been sold to customers. These products have earned a place on this list because of their quality, performance, and comfort. The positive customer feedback that they have received is another major reason that have earned a place in this countdown.
Top 5: Pool Sticks Review
Product Image & Rating (Out Of 10) | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
9.8 | ||
9.6 | ||
9.4 | ||
9.2 | ||
9.1 |
The number one product clocks in as the Players Set of 1 Piece Pool Cue Sticks. These are made with professional quality and are perfect for serious players and amateurs alike. They feature a high gloss finish to ensure that warping does not take place over time.
The pack includes four premium quality pool sticks that offer optimized comfort for almost every type of player. The outstanding customer reputation is an incredible achievement that very few products have managed to reach. For this price, this particular product is a great value for customers that want high end pool cues for their household.
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This product clocks in as another premium quality option. This time around, we are reviewing the Viking Valhalla 2 Piece Pool Cue Stick with Irish Linen Wrap. This product is made with extensive effort in order to achieve the highest levels of quality and comfort for the player.
There are over eight different colors to select from, including stylish choices like orange and blue. Customers can select their desired weight from ranges between 18 and 21 ounces for their particular purchase.
The overall value for this product is exceptional and has been backed up by positive reviews and an outstanding customer reputation.
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This Aska Set collection features five high quality pool sticks that are created with stainless steel and Canadian hard rock maple design materials. They are individually wrapped in black nylon. Each individual stick features its own increment of weight, ranging from 18 to 21 ounces.
These are made with premium quality so that customers can enjoy their comfort and design. Each one sports its own individual color, including black, blue, brown, green, and red.
These pool cues are perfect for beginners and professionals alike. They are great for learning purposes, but they are also capable of getting the job during times of serious competition.
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The number four product is the GSE Games & Sports Expert 58" 2-Piece Fiberglass Graphite Composite Billiard Pool Cue that has earned an impressive reputation with customers. These are constructed with a 2-piece graphite design so that they are optimized for mobility and easy transportation.
There is an added layer of comfort for some players because of the graphite shaft and overall fiberglass construction. The lightweight design features make this a very desirable option for some types of players.
There are four different colors available for players to choose from. Each of these colors also offers a specific configuration regarding the weight of the stick. The weight ranges between 18 and 21 ounces for each particular configuration.
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The first product that we will be taking a look at is the AB Earth 2-Piece Pool Cue that features an ergonomic design so that players can enjoy an added level of comfort. The material that is used on this particular product is Canadian hard maple which has been individually hand polished into place so that it can inherit a fancy design.
There are over 10 different colors and pool cue configurations to choose from so that players can have a high level of customization as well as a stick that offers them a comfortable experience.
The customer reviews for this product are extremely positive and it is an extremely affordable product that provides great value to the customers. Users will also be entitled to a six month warranty is for some reason they are not satisfied with this product.
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best pool sticks - Buying Guide
Each of these five products has a lot to offer to customers. Some of them focus more on the style and design of their stick, while others tend to focus on the technical side of things like weight and length. Depending on your particular preferences, you might have a specific list of criteria that you want your pool stick to match.
The good news is that many of the products on this list can be customized so that you can make your very own configuration when finalizing your purchase. More than half of these manufacturers will allow you to customize the length and weight of their pool sticks. This is a major plus for players that are looking for a specific type of stick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between a Light Pool Stick and a Heavy Pool Stick?
This biggest difference between weights is the comfort aspect for players. Some players like to take advantage of a lighter pool stick because they believe it opens up more opportunities for them when playing the game. Other players simply feel more comfortable with a lighter pool cue. Just like any product, it usually comes down to the player's preference.
What Is the Most Important Feature to Look for When Purchasing a Pool Stick?
One important feature to always keep an eye on when browsing the market for premium quality pool sticks is an addition that prevents warping. Usually a high gloss finish can protect against fading and warping. This kind of quality will certainly extend the general lifespan and extend its durability.
What Type of Pool Stick Is Best for Casual Players?
There are a lot of technical aspects that go into the design of pool sticks that casual billiards players usually aren't aware of. These minor factors usually play a major role into whether a professional player will use a particular pool stick.
Casual players should look for a pool stick that makes them comfortable. Usually pool sticks that offer a reasonable length and weight to the player is perfect for the average player.
How do you hold a pool stick?
Holding your pool cue properly is important if you want to have maximum control and accurate shots. When you don't hold the stick in the right way, it is easy to slip and hit the table instead of the ball or send the ball off in the wrong direction.
First, you'll want to start by holding the stick using your dominant hand. Place it down next to your hip, then pull your upper body down towards the table.
Use your non-dominant hand to make a bridge on the table about 6 inches away from the cue ball. Balance the stick on the bridge you made and line up your shot.
Once you have your shot lined up, you'll want to use your dominant hand that is holding the pool stick at the balance point and slide it forward towards the cue ball. Be sure to aim your show and follow through after making contact with the cue ball.
When sliding the pool cue, you want to maintain your grip, but make sure you aren't holding it too tight. Holding the pool stick on with your hand on the outside and your thumb on the inside can help you achieve good control.
What is a bridge in pool?
A bridge refers to the way you use the hand that is not holding the pool cue to line up the stick and allow you to move it back and forth towards the cue ball. The bridge helps you stabilize the pool cue, minimize vibrations, and control your aim when you take your shot.
There are a variety of different bridge types that players use. Some are more basic, while others are more advanced. The type of shot you're taking will impact the bridge you want to make.
What are the different types of bridges when playing pool?
There are four main types of bridges you may need to use during a game of pool:
- Open bridge: This is the type of bridge that is the easiest for beginners. An open bridge can help you clearly line up and see the shot you're taking and will help you keep the pool stick stable and balanced.
You'll want to squeeze your pointer finger and thumb together to create a slot for your pool stick. Once you've created this slot, place your hand down on the table with your pool stick in it to position yourself for your shot.
- Closed bridge: Many players prefer using a closed bridge, even though it can make it more challenging to see the cue ball and line up your shot since part of your hand may block your view.
When making a closed bridge, you need to use your forefinger to loop around the pool stick. Then, you'll want to squeeze it firmly, but not too tightly, with your thumb. You want to make sure that you leave plenty of space for the pool stick to be able to move between your fingers. Once you have your thumb and forefinger correctly placed around the pool stick, you can use the other fingers on your hand to keep it steady on the table.
- Rail bridge: A rail bridge is needed when the cue ball is too close to the edge of the table to use an open bridge or closed bridge. You need to put your hand on the bumper and move your thumb under your hand so it is touching your middle finger. Next, you'll want to move your index finger over the pool stick to create a bridge.
- Rest: The rest is an alternative to making a bridge with your hands. It is used when the ball is too far to reach to make the shot you want.
To use the rest, you need to line it up the with cue ball for the shot you want to make. Next, place your pool stick in the slot on the bridge and slide it back and forth a few times. Then, slide the pool stick with your hand to hit the cue ball and take your shot.
What is a scratch in pool?
A scratch in pool happens if you hit the cue ball into one of the pockets after making a shot. If you scratch, the person you are playing against can place the cue ball wherever they want it to go on the table. This will provide them with an advantage for their next shot, since they'll be able to line it up exactly as they want.
What happens if you scratch on the 8 ball in pool?
If you scratch when trying to pocket the 8 ball, but the 8 ball does not go into a pocket, the standard rules for a scratch apply. This would mean your opponent would be able to place the cue ball anywhere they want on the table for their next shot.
However, if you scratch on the shot when the 8 ball does go into the pocket, it means the game is over and you lose.
Can pool cues come apart for transport?
Yes, some pools cues can come apart for transport. This makes them more compact and easier to travel with when you want to bring them to a billiard hall or a competition.
If you're looking for a pool cue that you'll only use in your home, you may want to choose a one-piece option since they are less expensive and you don't need to worry about transporting it.
How long should a pool stick be?
A standard pool cue is between 57 and 58 inches (one-piece cues are 57 inches and two-piece cues are 58 inches). However, if you are shorter than average or are looking for a cue for a child, you may want to choose a shorter cue. You can find 48-inch and 52-inch pool sticks.
There are also 61-inch pool cues designed for taller players who are over six feet, five inches.
How expensive is a pool stick?
You can find pool sticks that range from under $100 to over $1,000. If you're just starting out, you'll likely want to opt for a product that is closer to the lower end of the range until you learn more about the game and develop some preferences.
10 tips to get better at pool
We figured since you may be getting a new pool stick here soon, lets give you some good free tips as well!
Every expert billiard or pool player wondered how they would do it perfectly – how to become the best. This is great for you because now you know that you are not alone in the journey of becoming a legendary pool player.
It is simple - first things first. As is the nature of any game, billiards expertise requires hours of training and mastering techniques such as arching and improvising.
While you may get better on your own, it is recommended you seek mentorship from an expert whose game you admire. You may want to train enough to want to beat them even at the top of their game.
This is why you need some evidence-based tips for becoming a better billiards player every time you handle the cue. Some pieces of advice, such as assuming the perfect posture and committing to the game, are all too familiar.
Here are some top 10 distinct tips that you can use to get better at billiards.
1.Command the Cue
Be the master of your cue stick by commanding its functionality. I know, it seems too direct and precise, but that is just it.
Individually, the perfect way to handle the cue correctly is by using the shaft created by your hand while holding the cue to function as a trigger. This way, you will be certain to get a better view of the cue stick because you will be looking at it right down.
As a novice player, it may be challenging to keep the cue stick horizontal because it is easy for you to attempt shooting while standing or bolting uprightly. When you do this, be sure to miss the ball.
Have you ever watched snooker players taking their shots? Well, I have. Most of the time, they arch their body to open a stance and ensure less neck nestling.
Simple Ideas For Holding The Cue Ball
•Position Your Hand Well
The arm holding the cue has to be perpendicular to the ground. The best position is a vertical posture.
•Select Comfort Zone
Settle for the position that you will best aim. Place your thumb well and keep it relatively loose.
•Roll Your Fingers
•Be Gentle With the Cue
2.Value The Chalk
Never underestimate the role that the chalk plays in ensuring that you get the best shot. Most expert billiard players like to use chalk as it helps them minimize the occurrences of miscues.
There are different kinds of chalk that you can use. The green-colored is famous for its lasting duration. You can carry the blue chalk along as you go on your daily businesses.
The good news is that you do not have to worry about an extra swelling on your jacket or handbag when you least expect it. This is why many pubs, restaurants, and clubs provide the blue chalk on all their tables.
However, if you do not mind, you can always carry your chalk for customization and efficiency of your play whenever the need arises. Who knows, the chalk could be your lucky charm.
Reasons Why It is Vital To Get Your Chalk Right
•Minimizes the occurrences of miscues
•Gets you the perfect shot
•Miscues could result in endless fouls throughout the game
•The more you miss, the higher the number of shots for your opponents
3.Execute The Break
If you have the opportunity to begin the game, you will want to give it your best shot, right? Well, the third tip you need to consider to be an expert billiards player is breaking the game precisely, decisively, and strategically.
In real sense, the first shot or the break of every game could be the winning or losing shot. This means that you need certain techniques, skills, and knowledge that you cannot understand or display without the help of a mentor.
Here are some more tips about breaking the game correctly.
•Accuracy is Golden
The idea is to be accurate and have power. However, never power the shot without absolute accuracy.
•Flexibility is Key
What counts for every break shot is the entry of the correct ball. Be ready to switch cue positions, hit less than full speed, or even change speed when breaking.
•Enhance Your Stance
You can maximize the potential of the position you take before the shot by keeping your legs bent. This way, you will gain and control your desired momentum as you deem fits.
•Cautiously Select Spots
Each table has a breaking method. Before the game, study the billiards table to identify signs of weakness or tear. That is where you begin.
•Copy The Pros
Watch how the pros make the first hit and copy exactly what they do. In most cases, the experts aim for the left or right rail by breaking just a few inches from either of the sides.
4.Remember Ball Analysis
Once the game breaks, do not be in a rush to take your next shot. While you might have successfully executed your break, you may easily give away the game with your second shot due to lack of ideal surveillance before the shot.
The idea is to walk around the table and mark the spots which seem too obvious and those that are impossible to access. This way, you will have a widened number of options with every ball that you decide to hit.
If anything, do not just consider the balls that you can score in one shot. Figure out your next three moves, as this will help you plan the speed and intensity of your shots.
You will want to shoot hard, direct, or indirectly based on the trajectory of your next three to four moves.
Benefits of Balls Analysis
•Maximized View
You can see all balls, including those that out of your limit.
•Creativity
The more you analyze the balls, the more strategies you devise to get the shots home.
•Confidence Boost
Nothing beats the confidence of a novice player who plans four moves ahead of his or her opponent. You are almost sure that 2 of the objectives will come through as the game progresses.
5.Zone In
As soon as the game gains speed, you want to win it by all means. Simple tactics that you can consider after assessing the balls is preventing your opponent from potting their balls.
You do not just play and get along with the game. It would be best if you played tactically and like a genius to win the game. You can decide to use your balls to block your opponent from potting.
In a typical game, when your opponent accidentally pots your ball, you gain two scores for free while he or she gets deducted points. All you need to do is cover the spots with your balls.
Benefits of Selecting the Perfect Spots
•Upper Hand
You have an advantage over your opponent because you have enough time to clean up your mistakes.
•Safety Net
When you are out of moves, all you need to do is slightly tap your ball for potting.
•Limiting Your Opponent
You have several chances of blocking your opponents from accessing their pockets.
6.Keep Your Eyes on Your Opponent
You will have a lot to gain when you observe your opponent. Keep in mind that not all players are honest. For instance, one may make a foul but continue with the game without letting you know.
Whether knowingly or unknowingly, a foul should earn you two shots. If you are not using a referee to judge, and not keen, you may miss chances of earning shots. Though watching your competitor does not necessarily change your game, it increases your chances of winning the game, and more to come.
The reason behind that is, you are slowly learning the strategies of your opponent. That way, you can use your competitor’s tactics against them to have better chances of winning.
7.Use Just Enough Power to Hit the Cue Ball
Analyze the game setting before you hit the cue ball. This way, you can use the right strength to hit the ball, depending on your intention. Numerous players lessen their chances of winning since they hit the ball too hard or apply too little force.
Using too much or low strength may lead you to hit the opponent’s ball, thereby disorienting your plan. If you are already on the black, calculate your step before taking a shot. Remember that perfecting the billiard is not about looking flashy, but getting precise with every move.
8.Be Flexible With the Rest
While calculating your moves, remember that you are not limited to the cue ball. Furthermore, it is easier to make precise shots with the rest. A notion that misleads many players is that using the rest is stressful and wastes time to get to the pockets.
This is not the case because you do not have to struggle to get your geometry right. Also, utilizing the rest does not prevent you from becoming an expert. If anything, you will be learning to perfect your shots.
To correctly use the rest, adjust its direction with the left arm after placing the cue in the cross. Treat your shots as usual because the rest is just a spare arm.
9.Plan Your Moves to Avoid ‘Hit and Hope.’
An excellent player calculates the moves before taking their first shot. Therefore, there are rare instances of hitting and hoping. Mostly, hit and hope moves do not produce the intended results.
To avoid this, access the game and know what happens when you shoot in a particular direction. Normalize taking the safety shots because you will limit your opponent from clearing the table. Moreover, hitting any ball, hoping that it gets you good results, only shows your competitor that you are clueless.
This lessens your chances of winning because your opponent will probably be predicting all your moves. Do not rush your game to look like an expert. Take your time as long as you are taking detailed shots.
Here are some of the best shots to utilize.
•The Curve Shot
The curve shot works best when aiming at balls that seem unhittable. To do this, strike the cue hard, but from an elevated position. The cue will move forward, but bend thereby hitting your target ball.
•The Double
Though risky, the double shot works best when you want to get into locations that seem inaccessible. By shooting the cue off the cushion and into the opposite pocket, you can sneak in places such as the middle pocket with ease. However, you are more likely to get the right hit if you have a good chance.
•The Draw Shot
The draw shot is more of an art. The aim is to hit the target ball and have the cue ball return to its previous position. The move is known as a backspin. Making a draw shot is not as challenging as it sounds. What you have to do is hit the cue ball as usual, but from its lower white part to pra spin. When the cue ball moves forward while spinning, it comes back towards the player after hitting the target.
Follow the guidelines below to get the draw shot right.
1.Loosen your grip to increase your hitting power and improve the tip contact point accuracy.
2.Avoid dropping your elbow before cue ball contact. You do not want to hit the cue ball tip hit higher than you intended.
3.Ensure you are not elevating the cue to improve your hitting accuracy.
4.Take your time during the final forward stroke and the final backstroke. Rushing this transition will limit your efficiency and power.
5.Consider making a draw bridge. To do this, create a fist and use your index finger to circle the cue stick while your hand rests flat on the table.
•The Cushion Shot
If you have a good chance of getting a remarkable hit, use the cushion shot for a target that is stuck on the cushion. With the cushion shot, you bring the ball into open play. This move gives you a chance of nicking the target down the rail. To get it right, forget about the cushion and play like you would with a ball in open play.
10.Be Careful When On the Black
Do not try so hard to manipulate your move when on the black. Assuming that the ball is in a risky position, choose another step that will get to closer to your goal. Many players make the mistake of walloping the ball.
This is risky because you are more likely to miss the pocket. At this point, your opponent has an advantage over you because you have created the perfect setting to clear the balls and put down the black. Get smart on the black by leaving it for your competitor to make a mistake, thus putting you ahead of the game.
If the black is on the cushion, leave it, as it may help you earn two shots later.
There is no perfect system you can use to win the billiard. However, you can employ several techniques to keep perfecting your game. While using the skills mentioned above, keep practicing if you aim to become an expert.
Hopefully these tips help you for when you break out the new pool stick!
Final Verdict
After evaluating all of the factors and design elements that went into constructing each of these pool sticks, it is now time for you to make your purchasing decision. There are premium end options that are great for professional players. There are also great options for casual players or beginners.
Hopefully the information in this review provides you with enough information to make a smart choice.
