Overall Review
Low-Deflection is the name of the game with the Players HXT15 Pool Cue. If you incorporate English into your play, you wont be dissatisfied. What’s great about this shaft is that it’s not at the extreme end of low-deflection. The stick still allows room for backhand English and parallel English for more advanced players.
But it’s not all about deflection. Balance and feel are top-notch. You won’t have to adjust your aim as much; there’s a little room for trial and error.
About Players
For the better part of thirty years, Players have been producing quality pool cues in Jacksonville, Florida. Considering the overhead of a domestic-based manufacturer, the price of their lower-end line is rather inexpensive.
Players is a division of a larger corporation called Cue and Case, which shares a similar reputation — great sticks that compete with cues more than twice the price.
What Kind of Player Does this Suit?
Because of the affordability of the Players HXT15 Pool Cue, it suits a broad range of players. Intermediate players will find themselves right at home. And many advanced players with decades of experience say this competes with Palmer, Predator, Meucci for a fraction of the price. Even if you jump into a purchase of this cue with high expectations, you’re likely come out pleased.
What Other Owners Have Said About It
Players have started with this stick. Some players are coming to this stick after fifty-odd years of play. Most of them seem to be satisfied.
- Some have jumped from a three to a five in APA over the course of a month.
- Others praise the shaft as straight, solid, and versatile.
- People have complained that the tip has worn in a short period of time.
Comparable Alternatives
Deliberating between some classic alternatives? Let’s go over a few differences.
#1 Lucasi Sneaky Pete Pool Cue
- Advantage: Zero flex-point shaft and a higher build quality throughout.
- Disadvantage: Double the price of the Players HXT15 Pool Cue.
#2 Stealth STH15 Pool Cue
- Advantage: Dooley Handle and lightning decal.
- Disadvantage: Produced overseas, lesser-known reputation.
The Lucasi Sneaky Pete Pool Cue is a better pool stick, no question. But at a high price point, you have to ask yourself — How much better is it in comparison to the HXT15? And the answer is: Not much better.
It’s going to come down to how competitive you are. What is at stake? Tournament prize money or bragging rights? And, don’t forget, many league players come out satisfied with the HXT15 anyway.
Bottom Line
Compared to other pool cues in its class, the Players HXT15 is a bargain. And the low-deflection shaft is indeed, the right balance between spin-prone and greater control. The shaft is sturdy, tactile, and responsive. The glue-in tip may wear over time, but don’t forget about the lifetime warranty which will cover premature wear.
Here is a quick breakdown of the Pros and Cons:
PROS:
- Excellent value in comparison to other advanced pool cues.
- Low-deflection shaft is subtle but effective.
- Excellent accuracy, and hard-hitting balance.
CONS:
- Soft tip wears over time.
- Is not on the level of Predator’s zero-deflection shafts.
- Not a whole lot of style and color options.
Want a pool cue that will compete in the leagues at a lower price point? The Players HXT15 delivers the fundamentals: a low-deflection shaft with leeway for backhand spin, a sturdy hit with little buzz, and a straight alignment. When you line up a shot, you’ll feel like a big shot.