How Snooker Cues Are Made

Understanding Snooker Cue Splices

Full Shaft vs Pro Shaft vs Extended Shaft Snooker Cues

Hand-Spliced vs Machine-Spliced Snooker Cues

Follow the process of making a snooker cue, from selecting and seasoning timber to shaping, splicing, fitting the ferrule, finishing, and final quality inspection.

1. Wood Selection

Cue makers select timber based on grain, density, straightness, and stability.

• Shaft: Ash or maple

• Butt: Ebony, rosewood, or exotic hardwoods

• Straight grain is generally preferred for shafts.

2. Wood Seasoning

Timber is dried and stabilized before construction.

• Air-drying or kiln-drying may be used.

• Moisture content is controlled to reduce movement.

• Some makers season and rest wood over several years.

Proper seasoning helps reduce the risk of warping.

3. Shaft Shaping

The shaft is gradually shaped into a tapered profile.

• Wood is turned or planed in stages.

• Material may be removed gradually to allow movement between stages.

• The final taper influences stiffness and playing feel.

4. Splicing & Butt Construction

Hardwood sections are fitted and bonded to the cue.

• Common designs: 2, 4, 6, or more splices

• Hand-splicing or machine-assisted cutting

• Wood combinations influence appearance and weight distribution.

5. Joint, Ferrule & Tip Installation

Depending on the cue design:

• A joint is installed for a 1/2 or 3/4 cue.

• A ferrule is fitted to the shaft.

• A leather tip is attached and shaped.

• Extensions and butt fittings may be installed.

6. Weight & Balance Adjustment

The maker checks the finished cue's specifications.

Typical ranges:

• Length: 57–58 inches

• Weight: 17–19 oz

• Tip diameter: 9–10 mm

• Butt diameter: 28–30 mm

Weight and balance may be adjusted through wood removal, fittings, or internal weights.

7. Finishing & Quality Control

• Sanding and surface preparation

• Oil or lacquer finishing

• Straightness inspection

• Joint and tip inspection

• Final weight, balance, and diameter measurements