Cue length

[leon gunn]

I'm in the market for a new cue and am wondering how big of a factor the length of the cue stick is, and concurrently, how important it is for the butt of the cue and the shaft of the cue to be the same length. Being 6'3, it seems that a longer cue would make more sense, but is it worth the extra $125 mcdermott wants for one more inch of shaft and butt!? Can I get away with just adding length to the shaft ($25 extra)?

[DZ314]

As far as I know, the only real difference is in reach on the table and the flexibility of the shaft. The longer the shaft is the more flexible it will feel when striking the cue ball. I personally think you can get away with adding the 1" on the shaft, it is certainly more economical to do so. That said, I do not think at your height it is necessary to have the extra length simply because you are tall. It is more of a personal preference thing really.

[audiopro]

1" is not much unless you are extremely used to playing with a cue that is longer. If this is your first cue, or you have been playing with standards for a while, I don't think you will notice a difference in the inch at all. Esepcially not a 125 dollar difference.

Dont let the logic of being taller make you think you must have a longer cue to play well. As far as I know, generally a longer cue is used in Snooker, not necessarily made for a taller person.

I'm sure some of the more experienced guys (dags, parrothead, new kid) will know for sure, but just my two cents.

[dags_lax]

My two sons are 6'3" and 6'4" and they use a 58" Joss and a 59" Nova respectively. If you grip the cue properly, the elbow of the butt hand at 90 degrees, or unless you have very long arms you should be fine with the Standard 58" McDermott.

[Nick T.]

Points to ponder - - - -

How frequently do you find yourself holding your present cue (or house cue) at the butt cap and wishing that it was a little bit longer?
How frequently do you find that your forearm is angle forward because the cue is not long enough?

If you answer the above questions with constantly or frequently, then the extra $125 is certainly justified. If you answer them with occasionally, then $25 for a 30 inch shaft is appropriate. If you answer seldom or never, then spend your money somewhere else.