Pool glossary · Table & Equipment
Shaft
What is the shaft of a pool cue?
The shaft is the thin front half of a cue, from the joint to the tip. It is usually maple or carbon fiber and tapers to the ferrule; its stiffness and end mass decide how much the cue ball deflects (squirts) when you use sidespin.
In more detail
Most shafts have a 'pro taper' — a constant diameter for the first 10–15 inches — so the cue slides smoothly through your bridge. Keep the shaft clean and dry; a sticky shaft makes your stroke jerky.
People also ask
Are carbon fiber shafts better?
They are typically low-deflection and very consistent, but 'better' depends on feel. Any shaft works once you learn its squirt and adjust your aim with english.
Train it at the table
More guides on shaft
Cue-Ball Control & Spin
How Does English Work in Pool? Side Spin Explained