The most important part of any cue is the tip. Your main concern should be how well it holds its shape and holds the chalk. The tip should never be smooth or deficient in chalk!
1. The tip should be shaped within a dime to nickel radius. A gauge is available with most tools.
2. If not within the dime to nickel radius, place a toe shaper on the floor with the bowl side up.
3. Flip the cue upside down by placing the tip of the cue into the shaper.
4. Rotate the cue while turning the cue from side to side. Be careful not to over-sand and wear down the tip too quickly. Remember, you are not sanding the tip, just shaping it.
5. Use a tip-pik and scraper on the leather tip to scrape and create deep perforations for maximum chalk retention and better ball control.
6. Apply a small amount of wax to the outer edge of the tip and buff. This helps prevent the tip from growing like a mushroom and will sharpen your vision in relation to the tip of the cue and the ball.
Shaft Maintenance
When the cue gets dirty or sticks, it is necessary to clean the shaft.
1. Using #600 wet/dry sandpaper, a white Scotch Bright pad, or #0000 steel wool, clean the shaft of the ferrule, down 10-15 inches.
2. Using a piece of brown paper, unstained leather, or even a $20 bill, buff the shaft until it is warm to the touch. This gives the shaft a polished look and feel, allowing the shaft to glide smoothly through your fingers without wearing gloves.
3. Another option would be to apply a small amount of shaft conditioner, working it into the shaft you have cleaned.
Additional Maintenance
1. To clean and polish the splint, use Pearl Drop Tooth Polisher with a damp cotton cloth and roll the splint back and forth on the cloth between your fingers.
2. Adding a bead of silicone, shaft treatment, or graphite to the joint pin will reduce friction
3. Never apply water to any part of the cue.
Tips to protect your investment
1. Never leave your pool cue in areas of extreme heat or cold. Doing so can cause the shaft to warp.
2. Do not expose your cue to moisture.
3. Make sure you always have the bumper on the butt end of your cue.
4. Never apply oils to your cue. This will soften the wood and damage the pieces.
5. Never leave your cue unattended unless you are sure.
6. A good rule of thumb to follow… Just let your cue go where you would.
7. Always store your cue exactly upright or horizontal.
8. Always use an experienced and reliable personal service.
