Best Pool Cue Brands

Photo by Cleyton Ewerton

Gather ’round because we’re about to dive headfirst into the world of the best pool cue brands – the wizards, the rebels, the artisans of the cue realm. 

Now, before we jump into the cue jungle, let’s get one thing straight – we’re talking about brands that produce high-quality cues. This isn’t a definitive ranking; it’s more like a cue buffet where personal preference is the main course. 

When choosing a stick it comes down to what you prefer and what works for your budget. So, whether you’re looking to channel your inner pool maestro or just want a reliable cue for the local bar showdowns, here’s a rundown of some of the better pool cue brands in the game.

McDermott

Since 1975, these guys have been setting the bar in the cue game, like the OGs of the billiards world. They’re not messing around – state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge technology, and the finest materials known to humanity. 

Craftsmanship? It’s not just a word; it’s an art form for these guys. Nestled in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, you’ve got the cue collection of wood-makers, designers, and engineers who are basically the Da Vinci of the cue world. 

McDermott cues are born through a process that’s like a symphony of over 150 separate procedures for each cue. 

Check this out – their shafts start from the cream of the crop, Kiln-dried, hand-selected North American Hard Rock maple, turned 11 times for stability. It’s like they’re crafting cues with the precision of a surgeon.

Viking

These guys have been holding it down for over 50 years – that’s like half a century of cue mastery. Their rise to the top? Well, it’s not rocket science, just damn good work and an innovative mindset. 

Enter the Viking Quick Release joint – it’s like the cue equivalent of a game-changer. With that move, Viking officially planted their flag as one of the big dogs in the pool cue realm.

Now, Viking’s commitment to quality is no joke. Every cue they churn out is a testament to balance and craftsmanship. 

And here’s the real deal – like all the heavyweight pool cue brands, Viking earned its stripes through unwavering performance and a knack for pushing the boundaries. 

Meucci

These guys are on a mission to craft cues that are like the holy grail for pool enthusiasts worldwide. We’re talking about a legacy that’s been going strong for decades – Meucci Cues is practically synonymous with excellence, precision, and the kind of innovation that makes your shots sing.

Founded back in ’75, Meucci Cues isn’t just a cue company; it’s a damn institution. They’ve been turning heads and pushing the boundaries of cue design, setting the stage for a whole new level of performance and craftsmanship. 

Bob Meucci, the maestro behind it all, had a vision – to create cues that were like secret weapons for players, enhancing abilities and taking games to celestial heights. That vision is still burning bright, inspiring and guiding Meucci Cues to craft cues that aren’t just tools; they’re an extension of your billiard soul.

Lucasi

Let’s talk about Lucasi pool cues, the working-class heroes of the billiards scene. These guys have been earning stripes, not just for their cues, but for their commitment to delivering top-notch performance without burning a hole in your wallet. 

Lucasi cues are like the blue-collar craftsmen of the cue world – they’re not here for the glitz and glamour, just damn good cues at affordable prices.

What sets Lucasi apart? Well, they’re not messing around with outdated tech. These guys bring innovation to the table with low-deflection shafts and vibration-dampening systems. It’s like they’re injecting some high-tech steroids into your shots, giving you that enhanced accuracy and power you’ve been craving. Lucasi cues are the perfect blend of performance, craftsmanship, and value – it’s like getting a cue that’s been dipped in the sweet spot sauce.

And here’s the kicker – these cues come with a lifetime warranty. Yeah, you heard me right – a lifetime warranty. As long as you’re not treating your cue like a sledgehammer, Lucasi has your back. 

Jacoby Custom Cues

Back in ’82, David and his son Shane were just doing repairs in the basement. Basement, man! That’s the humble beginnings. Then, feeling like they needed more action, they decided to cook up their own cue. It’s like going from fixing cars to building a Ferrari in your garage. Talents and imaginations running wild, they got themselves into the American Cue Maker’s Association – like the secret society of cue wizards.

Shane goes off to the Army, and Brandon takes the cue baton. By ’92, they’re out of the basement, building a shop, because, you know, basements are for rookies. Jacoby Custom Cues doesn’t mess around – they’re American-owned, American-operated, based out of Nekoosa, Wisconsin. It’s like the heartland of cue craftsmanship.

And here’s the deal – these guys don’t just build cues; they craft masterpieces. The choicest materials, the finest hardwoods – it’s like they’re handpicking the cue Avengers. 

Custom cues? Oh, they’re on another level. Want a cue with pink and purple veneer, a pink Irish Linen thread wrap handle, and your daughter’s name engraved? Hell yeah, they’ll do that. 

How about an Olivewood and Cocobolo design with sterling silver rings and a Stingray grip? Damn right, they’ll do that too!

Predator

The rebels of the billiards world, always pushing the envelope, and innovation is their middle name. It’s not just a cue; it’s like a cue from the future. 

Founded in ’80 by Tom Karabatsos, Predator went all in on new technologies and ways to craft cues, like the mad scientists of the cue lab.

They didn’t just stumble into the game; they kicked the damn door down. Predator quickly climbed the ranks to become the heavyweights of the cue world. It’s like they took a cue and injected it with a shot of high-quality construction steroids. 

Low-deflection shafts? That’s just the beginning for these guys. Today, they’re rocking carbon fiber designs and cue balance that’s like a tightrope walker on steroids.

Predator cues aren’t just cues; they’re like the James Bonds of the billiards realm. Sleek, sophisticated, and ready to unleash some serious aggression on the table. It’s not just shooting pool; it’s like you’re in a cue action movie with Predator in your hands.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour through the cue jungle. McDermott, Viking, Meucci, Lucasi, Jacoby Custom Cues, and Predator – each a powerhouse in its own right. 

But here’s the truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all in the cue world. It’s about you, your style, and what feels damn right. Whether you’re shooting pool like a seasoned pro or just starting, the cue kingdom is yours to conquer. So, find the brand that speaks to your cue soul, and may your shots be as fierce as your cue choice. It’s time to rule the table.