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The Shaft of a pool cue is the part that connects the tip of the cue stick to the handle. It also has a role in determining the overall length of the cue. The longer the Shaft, the higher the point of contact between the player and the ball.
Shaft turndown pool cues give players greater control over pool shots. They are typically thinner than standard pool cues resulting in more precision and better accuracy.
What is Shaft?
If you have a three-piece or two-piece cue stick, the portion of the cue that is closest to the cue’s tip is called the Shaft.
The part that is conical on the cue stick that is which joins with the butt. It is one end thicker, while the other ends are thinner. The Shaft gets thinner from the joint up to the tip of the cue. The process of getting thinner is referred to as tapering.
The tip’s most commonly used cue diameter is 13mm, but it can be reduced to 11.75mm.
What’s turned down Shaft?
The Shaft that tapering is further lowered from the butt joint to the cue point is referred to as turning down of the Shaft’s tapering.
Why are Shafts being turned Down?
To gain more precision with your shots. Smaller cue tips allow skilled athletes to strike the ball with an exact position in the cue ball. But there’s a downside to this, too, as all players aren’t alike, and there are some who make mistakes more often than others.
The game of pool is one of the fractions. A slight mistake to the cueball and the desired spot causes an unintentional ball spin. Intermediate gamers are much more likely to be affected than expert players who are more skilled and consistently playing the game.
If you know someone who can demonstrate a proficient technique for playing a pool cue, a lower tapering of the cue could aid. Some more experienced players lower the tapering since they know how they play. If you’re a beginner, then it is best to buy a quality pool cue instead of reducing the tapering.
Also Read: What is a hybrid Pool Cue?
Another reason that shafts are reduced is due to rough transition. Many players upgrade or alter their pool cues to a more rounded tip as they believe that a larger cue tip will help them hit an object straight. The issue arises when they discover that the Shaft is too thick to use with closed bridges. It means that there is a strong temptation to reduce the Shaft.
Consequences of Turning a Shaft Down
You could end your warranty on the Shaft. Modifying the taper could alter the information provided by the manufacturer that would void your warranty of the Shaft. When planning to alter the tapering, you must know precisely what you intend to perform.
Stress can alter the tapering process more than you had anticipated. It is best to have the job done by a professional as you won’t be able to play with a less expensive pool cue since the materials used between the shafts of a more costly and cheaper one may differ, as well as the force may alter the quantity of material removed.
Even if you’ve correctly decreased the tapering, it could alter the characteristics of your Shaft. It is possible that the balance of your cue could shift, and you may be unable to maintain the low deflection on the stick because the inside portion of the more down deflection cue has a hollow core and is filled with another material.
Benefits Of Using A Shaft Turndown Cue:
1) Better Accuracy: You will have greater control over your shot with a shaft turndown cue. You can easily adjust the height of the cue by turning it up or down on the table. It allows you to make precise shots with less effort.
2) More Precision: The thinness of the Shaft makes for a smoother feel when striking the ball. It results in fewer vibrations, improving your ability to hit the target accurately.
3) Less Fatigue: Because the Shaft is thinner, you’ll be able to hold the cue much longer, owing to its lesser weight. It reduces fatigue and allows you to play for more extended periods without tiring out.
4) Easier To Hold: Since the Shaft is thinner, it is easier to grip and hold. This makes it easier to use as compared to traditional pool cues.
Final TakeAway
If tapering down or turning down is necessary, I would recommend that you do this only on pure maple shafts with no deflection.
If you own carbon shafts or a low deflection shaft, I suggest selling the Shaft and getting another shaft with lower tapering. Some good manufacturers have lower-tapering shafts in the same model or similar shafts with more downward tapering.