Proper Pool Cue Balance
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Recreation Sports -> subcategory Other.
Understanding Proper Pool Cue Balance
Achieving the right balance in a pool cue is a topic of great interest, both in the U.S. and internationally. This guide will help you become an informed buyer when selecting a cue stick.
How Should a Cue Be Balanced?
The legendary Willie Mosconi suggested holding the cue with your right hand 5-6 inches behind the balance point. This worked for him due to his shorter arms and his focus on 14-1, but let's see if it applies to you.
Today's standard 58-inch custom cues have a balance point between 15.5 and 20 inches from the butt plate. Professional players, including top English snooker players, recommend positioning your hands 10-13 inches from where the cue rests on your bridge hand to the contact point on the cue ball. Your right hand should grip the cue, forming an 88-90 degree angle with your right elbow when in shooting position. Ensure the cue tip is aligned with the cue ball for impact.
This positioning reduces stroke error by utilizing only your elbow joint during follow-through, maximizing power at impact and avoiding the additional error from using your shoulder joint.
Players averaging 5'10" in height will often find themselves gripping closer to the cue's bottom when extending 11 inches of the shaft. Therefore, cues balanced further back improve player control.
Why Keep Your Grip Hand Near the Balance Point?
Having your grip hand closer to the balance point reduces the cue's weight on your bridge hand, allowing for a lighter touch. Snooker players, known for their precision, often prefer a balance point about 15 inches from the butt.
Gripping further back also minimizes side sway, crucial for control. Here's a simple test: lay your cue on a table, stabilize the tip with one hand, and move the joint with the other. Notice how the butt moves significantly. By moving the back of the cue less, you reduce error.
Due to modern cue designs, achieving a balance point 15 inches from the butt without exceeding 21 ounces is challenging. At Meucci Originals, we aim for a balance at 16.5 inches from the butt, adjusting for weight.
Contrary to some misconceptions, proper cue balance does not mean equal weight distribution between hands. That would place the balance about 26 inches from the butt, which is impractical.
In conclusion, a well-balanced cue encourages gripping further back, reducing side sway, and naturally aligning the elbow for a smooth follow-through.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Proper Pool Cue Balance.
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