Do you want to understand a pool cue’s standard weight and size? Or, more importantly, how heavy your pool cue should be? In this article, we will discuss how you can figure out the right weight and size for you so you can improve your game!
The standard pool cue is about 57-59 inches long and weighs between 17-21 ounces. The recommended weight for American pool is 18-19 ounces, and unless you are under 5’4” tall, the 57-58 inch size should do the trick. It’s important to understand that how much the cue should weigh depends on personal preference.
If you want to understand how to find out the right size and weight of a pool cue based on your size and level of expertise, keep reading! We have all the information you need right here to be able to decide on the right pool cue for your game.
How Heavy is a Pool Cue?
The first thing to understand about standard pool cues is their weight. Most cues are between 17-21 ounces.
However, those few ounces can make a big difference! Lighter cues are usually used for Snooker, whereas heavier sticks are more common in English and American-style pool.
This is because the balls in American-style pool are heavier than Snooker balls and therefore require a more weighted stick. As well, pool tables are larger than Snooker tables, and the ball needs to travel a longer distance, making a heavy stick a great option.
Now, there is much more to consider when choosing the weight of a pool cue besides the game you’re playing. So let’s find out how heavy your pool cue should be.
How Heavy Should My Pool Cue Be?
The weight of a pool cue depends entirely on your skill set and personal preferences. But there are several ways to find out which weight will work best for you.
Many people believe that a heavier pool cue will ensure better control over the shot, but that is not always the case. In fact, a heavier pool cue is harder to work with and can decrease your consistency from shot to shot.
Unless you are a professional player or are confident in your ability to shoot with the same force every time, a 17-18 ounce cue stick is the best option for you.
The lighter sticks are easier to work with; the shot will be smoother and the force more consistent.
That being said, professionals tend to use 19-ounce sticks as they have had the practice to perfect their shots, even with a heavier cue.
How Long is a Pool Cue?
Most pool cues are 57-59 inches long. However, there are some cues that are around 55 inches.
Usually, 57 inches is recommended for a standard or amateur player, whereas most professionals opt for 59-inch sticks.
Only players who are short in stature, i.e., under 5’4”, should use a cue that measures 55 inches.
For taller players, such as those over 6’4”, you will want to invest in a larger cue stick. Essentially, if you run out of grip and your hand is on the end of the stick, it’s too short for you.
How Long Should My Pool Cue Be?
Deciding how long a pool cue should be depends on a lot more than just your height. The length of the stick can alter your game for better or for worse!
The reason why professionals use longer sticks is not that they are taller. It is because the weight of the cue moves backward into the end of the stick, which allows for a more forceful and consistent shot.
However, longer sticks are more challenging to use if you are not an accomplished player. So, if you’re just starting your pool journey, you should start with a 57-58 inch cue stick.
What is the Standard Tip Size on a Pool Cue?
In addition to weight and size, you should also pay attention to the tip size on your cue.
The standard size for the tip of a cue is 13mm; however, some professionals use 12 mm instead.
Once again, it is a personal choice as to which tip size is best for your game, but the smaller the tip size, the more challenging the cue is to use. That being said, a smaller tip can increase your ability to add spin to your shots and can really improve your game if you know how to use it.
The Bottom Line
So, what is the standard weight and size of a pool cue? You know the answer to this one now!
But just to recap: A standard pool cue will weigh between 17-21 ounces and is between 57-59 inches long with a 13 mm tip size.
Hopefully, you now understand why the weight and size of the cue matters and, more importantly, how to choose the right pool cue for you and your game!