So there you are in your local pool hall or neighborhood hangout and someone wants to play you in a game of pool. What's the first thing you do after you say O.K.? You walk over to the pool cue rack of usually neglected pool cues and try to find something that is relatively straight, with a tip, and in a weight that you're comfortable with. Why? Because that is how you choose a pool cue. Now, let's talk about choosing a pool cue that doesn't hang on a pool rack but instead is found in your pool cue case.

Wouldn't it be nice to open up your very own pool cue case and pull out your own pool cue? Sure it would but how do you go about making that decision? What information do you need? Trust me, not all pool cues are the same, not even close. There are many varieties and choices. I will only cover three items in this article about what to look for in purchasing your own pool cue.

Item number one: Personality

You must be happy with the appearance of your pool cue because it can say a lot about you. For example, if you are a rough and tough type of person, you wouldn't be caught dead with a pretty pink pool cue with hearts on it. Or if you are the quiet type you might not want a pool cue with Harley Davidson or Jack Daniels on it. Although these are somewhat extreme examples the point that I'm trying to make here is that you get a pool cue nowadays with just about any design on it that you want from skulls or spiders to some of the most beautiful inlays you can imagine. Be sure that you take the time to look at all of the available options because when you pull that pool cue out of your pool cue case it must make a statement.

Item number two: Comfort

Remember when you were in front of that pool cue rack and you were looking for pool cue to use? Did you look at the weights of the cues? Did you look at the thickness of the shaft? Did you notice that some might have been shorter than others? Sure you did because you were looking for something that would feel comfortable to shoot with but also a pool cue that might give you an edge so you could win. Choosing a pool cue for yourself is just like this but did you know that you can get a specific thickness for your shaft, 13mm is the common size? Also, the weights can be chosen from 17oz. to 21oz. in ½ oz. increments and that with most cues you can change these weights yourself simply by changing what is called the weight bolt. Other variables that will affect comfort are length and balance especially balance.

Item number three: Price

Believe it or not you can pay more than $10,000 for a pool cue. Most of us won't do that. But can you get a pool cue that incorporates all of the features that I have mentioned at an affordable price, absolutely. Of course you can buy a pool cue for as little as $10,00 but will you get the quality that you desire, probably not. Price is determined by many factors such as quality of the wood used in the shaft and butt, the types of materials used in the inlays, whether it is wrapped or not, and how the joints are made. Generally around $100.00 will get you a functional pool cue that you will like. Obviously you can spent $500-$600 and get a really "sweet" pool cue. Also be sure to check the manufactures warranties and guarantees since they will vary.

So, in a nut shell, you want a pool cue that looks great, feels great, at a price you can afford. Be sure to shop several different brands, because as I said earlier, not all pool cues are the same. Shop hard, play well and good luck!