Quick answer: To choose a house cue, pick a few from the rack and check each one. Roll it on the table to see if it is straight. Look at the tip to make sure it is there, rounded, and not flat or slick. Pick a weight that feels good, often marked on the butt. Check that the shaft is smooth and not sticky, the ferrule is not cracked, and the cue is one solid piece with no wobble. Then chalk up and play.
House cues are the cues that bars and pool halls leave on the wall for anyone to use. Some are in good shape and some are not. A minute of checking helps you find the best one.
Check 1: Is It Straight?
Roll the cue slowly across the table. A straight cue rolls smoothly and stays flat. A warped cue wobbles or lifts. You can also look down the cue like a telescope. For more ways, see how to tell if a pool cue is straight.
Check 2: Look at the Tip
| Tip condition | What it means |
|---|---|
| Rounded and chalk holding | Good to use |
| Flat or hard and shiny | May miscue more |
| Missing or peeling | Pick another cue |
| Mushroomed over the edge | Can still work, but not ideal |
Check 3: Feel the Weight
Many house cues have the weight printed on the butt. Heavier cues feel solid. Lighter cues feel quick. Try a couple and pick the one that feels most natural in your stroke.
Check 4: Check the Length
Most house cues are standard length. Some bars also have shorter cues for tight spots near walls. Use a short cue only when you need it, since it changes how your stroke feels.
Check 5: Run Your Hand Down the Shaft
The shaft should feel smooth. Sticky or dirty shafts drag on your bridge hand. Look for dents or nicks too.
Check 6: Look at the Ferrule
The ferrule is the white piece just under the tip. If it is cracked, the cue may hit poorly. Pick another one.
Check 7: Check for Wobble
Many house cues are one piece. If it is a two piece cue, make sure the joint is tight and does not wobble.
Find the Balance Point
Hold the cue on one finger and find where it balances. This helps you know where to put your grip hand. See how to find the balance point of a pool cue.
Chalk It Up
Once you pick a cue, chalk the tip well before your first shot. Read how to chalk a pool cue for the right way.
Tips for Playing With a House Cue
- Pick your cue early and keep using the same one all night.
- Warm up with a few easy shots. See how to warm up before playing pool.
- Use a smooth stroke. A house cue may not forgive a jerky stroke.
- Put it back in the rack when you are done so it does not warp.
Should You Buy Your Own Cue?
If you play often, your own cue gives you the same feel every time. Many players start with house cues and buy a cue once they know they love the game.
Quick Checklist
- Rolls straight
- Tip is there and rounded
- Weight feels good
- Shaft is smooth
- Ferrule is not cracked
- No wobble
The Bottom Line
How to choose a house cue: roll it to check that it is straight, look for a good rounded tip, pick a weight you like, and make sure the shaft is smooth, the ferrule is not cracked, and nothing wobbles. Chalk up, find the balance point, and stick with the same cue all night.
Keep Reading on This Site
- How to Use a Rail Bridge in Pool: 3 Bridges for Shots Near the Cushion
- How to Hold a Pool Cue: A Simple Grip Guide for Beginners
- How to Line Up a Pool Shot: 7 Simple Steps for Beginners
- How to Warm Up Before Playing Pool: A 15 Minute Routine
- Open Bridge vs Closed Bridge in Pool: Which One Should You Use?
- Pool Stance for Beginners: 6 Steps to a Solid, Balanced Stance
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a house cue is straight?
Roll it slowly on the table. A straight cue rolls smoothly without wobbling.
What weight house cue should I use?
Pick the weight that feels most natural in your stroke. Try a couple before you choose.
What if the tip on the house cue is flat?
A flat or shiny tip may miscue more. Pick a cue with a rounded tip if you can.
Should I use the same house cue all night?
Yes. Using one cue keeps your stroke and feel consistent.