The construction of a billiard cue

You often only understand train station when you listen to expert billiard players talking shop? There are terms like ferrule, shaft or bud-cap. Here we help you further. You will get an exact description of the technical terms that can help you to choose a cue.

1. Leather

At the top of the cue is a leather cap to dampen the touch with the ball. For low-priced cues, these leather tips (standard quality) are screwed on, while for high-quality cues, the leather tips are always glued on and therefore also have the name adhesive leather. For pool queues you use leather with a diameter of 12-13mm, with billiard queues 11-11,5mm and with snooker queues 9-10mm. The leather tip should be slightly rounded in shape. However, since the leather is subject to a certain amount of wear, it should be regularly checked with the leather shapers and trimmers offered and, if necessary, reshaped.

2. Ferrule

The part on which the leather tips are attached is called ferrule. This ferrule covers the inside of the wooden pin and protects the wood from cracks and also ensures the interception of hard joints. Although a damaged ferrule can usually be replaced in an "Oüu repair workshop", one should nevertheless check whether the partially costly repair is in proportion to a new purchase of a top part.

3. Shell - Shaft

The top is made of wood. For simple cues Raminholz is used, while for the high-quality cues selected maple wood is used. Maple wood is more flexible, so you can play more soulful than with the harder Raminholz. Since it is very important that the top always glides easily, it should be treated with the available care products from time to time. Many experienced billiard players constantly carry a spare shell with them to make a quick replacement in case of a leather defect or another handicap.

4. Ornamental Ring

The lower end of the upper part is covered by a decorative ring. This trim ring in turn protects the wood from the connection with the base.

5. Connection - Joint

The connection of upper part and lower part is called Joint. In the case of cheap cues, this connecting part is made of brass or plastic, whereas high-quality cues use polished stainless steel.

6. Lower Part
Under the joint begins the lower part which is painted over to protect the wood and the partially high-quality inlays and Designs.

7. The grip band

The grip band is located in the grip zone of the game queues and is available in different versions. Overcoated, made of nylon, super-grip or high-quality Irish linen (linen). Here, each player must decide for one of the offered grip bands.


8. Tail - but-cap

The end piece, which is usually made of plastic, has the task of protecting the queue downwards. Inside there is a threaded screw (weight screw). Outside the tail you will often find the brand names engraved. The rubber buffer at the bottom is also used to protect the cue especially when parking on hard stone or tile floors. If worn, you can buy buffers at any time.

Another important tip

If you have decided to buy an oueu, you should also pay attention to the correct storage and safe transport. And therefore best buy a lined Oueuetasche, hard case or quiver with. Remember that your cue is made of wood and thus is a natural product that may be sensitive to temperature changes.