Parts of a Billiard Cue

In the early days of billiards or pool, the game was played with a mace which resembled a golf club. The mace was used to strike the cue ball, but this became difficult when the cue ball landed next to the rail. Players would turn the mace around, and use the butt end of the implement to strike the cue ball. By the middle of the 19th century, the mace had virtually disappeared, and the cue stick became the implement of choice.

  1. Tip

    • The Tip of the billiard cue, used for impacting the cue ball, is typically covered in leather.

    Ferrule

    • The Ferrule is used to attach the Tip to the Shaft of the cue.

    Shaft

    • The Shaft or Taper is the forward part of the cue, and is normally 12 to 14 inches long.

    Joint

    • The Joint is a metal or plastic fitting with a screw fitting, allowing the Shaft to be attached to the Butt.

    Butt

    • The Butt is the bottom end of the billiard cue, and maintains most of the weight. It is often made from exotic materials, and may be ornately decorated.