Lambros Cue vs Samsura Cue vs Predator SE5 made by Samsura

[odshot68]

I've played with a McDermott Level 4 D-20 for the past 21 years. Approximately, about 10 years ago I put a 314 Predator shaft on it. I recently joined an APA league and I'm a 7. As I started getting serious about my game I felt the cue wasn't as solid as it should be. Consequently, the other night I went to a local cue dealer to try some new cues not knowing exactly what I was looking for. The dealer mostly stocked Predator cues and some higher end special edition cues. I fell in love with the SE5 Predator made by Samsura. It felt like butter when you hit the cue (the only way I can describe it). I decided to wait a few days before dropping the cash on the cue. I checked out an online dealer and was about ready to buy it when the representative told me about a Lambros cue. He stated that this is by far the best shooting cue out there. I currently live in the midwest and noone around here has one or knows anything about it. I've made a few calls over the past days talking with some private cue makers ( I won't mention names) and was recommended to a Samsura cue. The gentlemen was very helpful and knowledgable. He stated the weighting and shaft was different with their shaft versus the Predator they made. Both the Lambros and Samsura feature the radial joint where the Predator used their Uni-Loc joint. At this point I'm not sure which way to go. I've never handled either of the two custom cues but I can't imagine they could feel better than the SE5 by Predator. I would like to have feedback with anyone who has hit or owns either of these custom cues and if you could differentiate them with the pros or cons of each. Personally, I'm more concerned with the feel and playability of each cue since both cues will have outstanding detail and craftsmanship. Thank you..

[mechmat]

For the kind of money you're looking to spend I wouldn't buy anything you haven't personally handled. There are a lot of custom cuemakers out there making fantastic looking and playing cues, but each has it's own characteristics and what you like about one or the other is going to totally be personal preference.

You said you currently own a McDermott and are looking at a Samsara (besides the Predator SE5), correct? The guy I go to for my tips owns a Samsara and sells McDermotts, and says he plays with a McDermott because he prefers the feel. You might personally prefer the feel of a Samsara, but you'll never know that if you don't hit with one.

Also, you might want to consider having a cue made to you specifications rather than buying something someone has in stock. A guy like John Madden (you can find his website rather easily) to the exact size, weight, and specifications you want and make it look good for the same price (or less) as the other cues you're looking at.

Consider all your options, but if you like the SE5 as much as you say you do I wouldn't be too hesitant to buy one (from seyberts of course ;) ). You're getting a quality cue and great piece of art from Samsara, a shaft you're familiar with, and a cue that could potetionally be collectable.

[skor]

If you're going to put a Predator shaft on any of these cues then they'll all have the same playability but not the same feel, If you liked the way the Predator SE-5 feels then go with it.
I like the Samsara cues better then the Lambros cues but that's just me.
Any cue maker can fit a joint of any type to any cue, you can order a Samsara with a Uni-Loc if you like that joint, mind that ordering a new cue will take some time before it'll be ready.
I just got a McDaniel cue and I have to say that the balance anf feel of this cue is great plus it has a reasonable price, Bill will make almost any cue you would like.

[spartan]

Go with a Lambros. They hit great. Regret selling mine.

[audiopro]

Saying this cue or that cue is the best hitting cue, is not logical. To a particular person it may be the best hitting cue, but that is subjective. What feels like a great hitting cue to me, may feel like a plastic toothpick to skor. Or a steel rod to spartan.

In the end, the best way to find out is to handle them yourself. Find which you like the feel of, and go with it. If you liked the SE5, it is a great cue. I would have no worries about getting it. Is it a better hitting cue than the Lambros? That totally depends on the person...

[spartan]

I agree. My preference is a piloted steel joint. Others may prefer a flat faced phonelic or ivory joint. I prefer a hard tip. Others may prefer a soft tip. Try both. It will take more time but you will be happier in the end.