Overall Review
In a hurry? Here’s the bottom line. If you’re a casual player (Skill Level 3 to 4-ish) who doesn’t use extreme spin, this cue is the perfect one for you. The Viper Sinister has a classic look with its Irish linen wrap and even comes with a detachable scuffer from the bottom of the cue.
About Viper
Viper mass produces a wide variety of cues from one-piece house cues to mid-price 2 piece cues overseas. They have been a well know name in cue production for years and with the high volume they produce, they have been able to develop a consistent product for the price ranges they serve.
What Kind of Player Does this Suit?
Intermediate players looking for a better quality cue and who want to stay under $100 will appreciate what the Viper Sinister offers them.
Are you tired of taking a gamble on house cues/low quality cues that aren’t balanced or straight?
We’ve seen consistent well-balanced quality cues from Viper over and over again.
The consistent feedback of the cue, the standard Le Pro leather tip and a traditional linen wrap make this a good choice for the competitive players’ go to cue.
What Other Owners Have Said About It
We see very few complaints from its owners.
- Like all maple shaft cues, the occasional warped shaft is mentioned but the distributor seems to be willing to make it right.
- Many owners say that the feel of the Viper Sinister 58″ 2-Piece Billiard/Pool Cue is comparable to more expensive cues that they have used.
- The nice weight balance is one of the top features that is mentioned by players that regularly use this cue.
Comparable Alternatives
Still undecided? Lets look at a few alternative options.
#1 Players Classic Birds-Eye Maple (Amazon)
- Advantage: Life time warranty
- Disadvantage: Grip may be more slippery
#2 Players Technology Series HXT15 Two-Piece Pool Cue (Amazon)
- Advantage: Life time warranty
- Disadvantage: Price is higher
Viper and Players are both reliable brands that have been around for a long time. You can’t go wrong with either, I’d argue at this point it’s a matter of appearance.
Bottom Line
The Viper Sinister is a well balanced cue. For under $100 it offers classic styling and a traditional look that could be expected in higher priced cues.
PROS:
- Traditional Look
- Built-in Tip Scuffer
- Multiple Weight Options
CONS:
- Contoured Butt may not be comfortable for everyone
- Wood shaft vulnerable to warp
- Less control than composite cues
Of course, its maple shaft will require proper care and treatment to prevent warping and nicking. You could easily spend $50-100 more on a different pool cue and not see an appreciable difference in performance over the Viper Sinister 58″ 2-Piece Billiard/Pool Cue. For APA skill levels 2 through 5, this will be a solid pick up.