Pool cue shafts have advanced by leaps and bounds since we picked up a stick and started hitting balls around on a table. Now, manufacturers design advanced pool cue sticks using carbon fiber technology, keeping in mind things in mind like cue ball deflection, english, and vibration.
There are many advantages a carbon fiber shaft has over wood, but for some cue shafts, those advantages come at a cost.
Carbon Fiber Shaft Benefits
Carbon fiber shafts are made of lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain materials. You do not have to worry about environmental impacts such as extreme heat or cold, warping your shaft like with a wood shaft. Maple, the most common wood used for billiard cues, is prone to warping if left exposed to extreme elements. This does not occur in carbon fiber shafts and is a major benefit of owning one. Carbon fiber shafts are also sturdier than wood shafts, which are more prone to damage. They can withstand falls, dings, and scratches and are easy to maintain, too. A quick wipe down after a match and it will look pristine again. Since carbon fiber is waterproof, you do not have to worry about it retaining water if it gets wet.
Wood Shaft Benefits
There are a few benefits of a wood shaft over carbon fiber. One of the key benefits of a wood shaft over carbon fiber is that if damaged, a wood shaft can often be repaired at a reasonable cost. Some carbon fiber shaft manufacturers may require you to take the shaft to an authorized repair center, which can be expensive.
Wood shafts also do not get sticky over time like their carbon fiber counterparts are prone to doing. Sticky shafts can cause issues gliding over your bridge hand.
Wood shafts are also easier to acclimate to no matter what level of pool player you are. The learning curve with wood shafts is not as steep as it can be with a carbon fiber shaft.
If cost is not an issue when searching for a new shaft, explore these five popular carbon fiber shafts:
Predator REVO Shaft
Predator is a leader in the carbon fiber shaft movement with the REVO line. Available in 11.8mm, 12.4mm, and 12.9mm, they also offer multiple joint types. With low deflection and high accuracy of shots, the Predator is more suited for advanced players as it is one of the more costly carbon fiber shafts available.
Pros
- Pinpoint accuracy with minimal deflection
- Lifetime warranty
- Easy to maintain
- Warp-resistant
- Shaft options
Cons
- Costly
Cuetec Cynergy 15k
A carbon fiber shaft that was manufactured with world-famous player Shane Van Boening overseeing the process, the Cuetec Cynergy 15k features everything a player wants to shoot the perfect game. Technology built-in for less deflection on shots with a lot of spin, lowered mass in the shaft so it can quickly move out of the way of the cue ball when using heavy english. The technology incorporated into this shaft makes it every player’s dream shaft.
Pros
- Low-deflection
- Warp-resistant
- Low maintenance
- Durable
Cons
- Costly
- If damaged, repair is costly
- Learning curve
Muecci Carbon Pro Shaft
Another top manufacturer of carbon fiber shafts, the Muecci Carbon Pro Shaf is a low deflection shaft that has optimal performance. Available in most standard joint sizes, you can combine this with any butt of your choice. It incorporates technology that gives you the most control over english as well as a reduction in vibrations down to your grip. The Muecci Carbon Pro Shaft is sure to not disappoint.
Pros
- Versatile shaft
- High quality
- Durable
Cons
- Costly
- Steep learning curve
BEKZILY Carbon Pool Cue Technology Shaft
A highly precise shaft, the BEKZILY Carbon shaft, does not weigh much, making it suitable for beginners. The toughness of the shaft is twice the hardness and durability of a natural wood shaft, leaving it one of the most durable shafts on the market.
Pros
- Players can adjust the weight that works best for their strokes
- Non-slip grip on shaft
- Low-maintenance
Cons
- Professionals will have to look elsewhere, as this is geared towards amateurs and casual players
KONLLEN Low Deflection Carbon Fiber Pool Cue Shaft
A popular choice for its low deflection and high performance, this shaft is constructed from aviation-grade carbon fiber. Reasonably priced, the KONLLEN attracts players of all levels compared to other carbon fiber shafts. KONLLEN uses technology to not only provide ultra-low deflection but also to keep it on the light side, too.
Pros
- High-quality components result in a long life
- Suited for players of all levels
- Affordability
Cons
- Cannot change weight
