Best Pool Break Cue Reviews (2024)
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Playing billiards is not something anyone can perfect after a match or two. Playing pool is an art that is perfected over a long period of time. In order to be good at pool, you have to understand all aspects of the game. One important aspect of playing pool is the break. The break is the first shot of the game and if performed correctly can put you in the best possible position to win the game. In order to perform a great break, you should have the best break cue.
Although pool may seem like a simple game at first, it takes a lot of skill and practice to master. Every shot is different, so you have to understand the concepts behind the game rather than memorizing the exact position of a shot.
The break is one of the few shots in billiards that is going to be essentially the same every time. A good billiards player can make the same ball on the break pretty much every time.
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What is The Break?
In 8 Ball Pool and many other pool games, you start the game off by racking the balls in a rack (pictured below). Then hitting the white ball, the cue ball, into the rack to break up the balls. This is called the break. Unlike other shots, you typically hit very hard when breaking. So, there are pool cues made specifically for breaking.
While a normal playing cue is necessary, a break cue may seem very unnecessary to many players. However, until you’ve used a good break cue, you won’t understand how much of a difference it can make on your break. Break cues are designed to be hit very hard, without losing control and without damaging the cue.
Most pool cues aren’t meant for hard shots and can wear down your cue over time.
Break cues also tend to come in heavier weights so you can put more power behind your break.
Once you’ve used a good break cue, you won’t want to break with any other cues. For me, it feels weird when I try to break with a normal house cue. Once you’ve found the perfect break cue for yourself, it’s natural that you’d want to carry this pool cue stick with you for every game.
Having the right break stick also boosts your chances of winning the game. It will allow you to get the upper hand from the initial break. Therefore, you must ensure that you are buying the appropriate one while making your purchase.
If you’ve been thinking of getting yourself the perfect break cue, you’ve landed in the right place. We understand the importance of a good break stick and how it can tip the odds in your favor. With so many options out there, it can be a tough decision to make.
But don’t worry, we have compiled a list of the best billiard break cues on the market today. We’ve done the hard work for you so you just have to make a decision on which of the best break cues is best for you. Our list is based on real customer reviews, product comparisons, market research, and of course, 100% unbiased recommendations.
My #1 pick for the best break cues is the Breach Break Cue By Cuetec because it comes with the cynergy carbon fiber shaft which is one of the best shafts available.
The 6 Best Break Cues of 2021
- Cuetec Breach Break Cue with Cynergy Carbon Fiber Shaft
- Predator BK3 Break Cue with Sport Wrap
- McDermott Sledgehammer SH1 Break Cue
- Cuetec WCT Billiard Break Cue
- LUCASI Big Beulah 2 Pool Break Cue
- Cuetec Meteor Break Cue
1. Cuetec Breach Break Cue w/ Cynergy Carbon Fiber Shaft Review
Pros
- Powerful and sturdy mechanism
- Sleek and modish design
- Adjustable weight
Cons
- More suitable for professional players
- Price
My #1 pick goes to this beast of a break cue. The Cuetec Breach Break Cue. This Cuetec break cue will help you deliver world-class performance in every game you play. It gives you the utmost control with a nice low deflection, carbon fiber shaft while maintaining the strong design necessary for a break cue.
If you’re a true billiard fan, I’m sure you know the world-famous billiards player Shane Van Boening. He also uses this break cue! This cue was engineered and fine-tuned to his liking because only a true player would know the best break cue setup. This cue is commonly referred to as the Shane Van Boening break cue.
This SVB break cue has several features that every player desires in their dream break pool cue. It is integrated with CT-15K carbon composite shaft, which is a revolutionary technology by Cuetec. This shaft features a 12.5mm hard Tiger tip that comprises of a Bakelite ferrule. The small tip will allow precise english control on your break. Apart from that, it has a long-lasting rubber bumper for the perfect bounce.
Speaking of the body of the Cuetec break pool, it is the perfect combination of style and functionality at the same time. It features a sleek black design with red and silver imprinted details. The back butt is made with sturdy hardwood and is covered with an Irish linen wrap. This ensures that you have a strong and stable grip on it throughout the game.
The break pool cue stick is also fashioned with Cuetec’s special Acueweight system for excellent weight management and adjustment so you can play your game with utmost flair and ease.
This two-piece break cue measures 58 inches but is compatible with a 6 inch Cuetec smart extension.
If you play with this Cuetec break cue once, you will instantly fall in love, no doubt! This stick is crafted almost to the specs of a performance shooting cue but with the durability and power necessary for a break cue. You won’t be disappointed with this cue. We bet you wouldn’t play another match of billiards without your new favorite break cue.
If you want to learn more, click on the button below.
2. Predator BK3 Break Cue with Sport Wrap Review
Pros
- Sophisticated design
- Delivers high energy
- Ergonomically structured
- Limited Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty
Cons
- Price
- Light Weight
This Predator break cue is truly one of a kind that is above all other billiards break cues for its unique features. It is geared with the finest and latest technology materials to give you the ultimate break pool stick that you deserve.
The C4 technology in this Predator BK3 Break Cue is a 4-piece butt construction that defines its robustness and strength. It also has a uni-loc that makes it easy to attach and detach this pool cue stick in the most effortless way possible.
Additionally, this pool cue stick is surprisingly light in weight that measures only 18 ounces. This will give you the flair you need while playing and make moving around and maneuvering this pool cue stick easy, light, and airy. It will also ensure that you will face less strain and pressure on your hands and muscles while breaking.
Talking about the design of this Predator break cue, that too is exceptional. The pool cue stick is matte black in color with bright yellow details and the fierce logo of Predator BK3 break cue imprinted on it. It is not only built to look good but the design also takes a player’s comfort into consideration as well.
This lovely cue is coated with rubber that will provide you with the best grip. This assures that you avoid miscues and experience a slip-free playing experience. The tip of this pool cue stick is a BK Phenolic Break Tip measuring an optimum length of 12.75mm. This is the perfect size to ensure maximum contact and superior control over the cue ball.
This Predator BK3 Break Cue will truly stand as your companion alongside victory for many billiard games to come. It is truly one of the best billiard break cues made for winners and challenge seekers.
In order to attain more information regarding this pool cue, click on the button below.
3. McDermott Sledgehammer Break Cue Review – SH1
Pros
- Ergonomic structure
- Excellent design
- High performance phenolic tip
Cons
- More suitable for professional use
- Light Weight
This is an excellent stick from McDermott that guarantees robustness and durability. The McDermott break cue features a construction of hard rock maple and is the ultimate definition of fine quality and sturdiness to give you the finest performance.
It is extremely lightweight, measuring only 19 ounces. This will provide you with the required flair and energy during your game to deliver your best performance. However, if you think this is not the perfect weight for you, you can ask the manufacturer to adjust the weight according to your requirements.
Furthermore, the ferrule is designed with McDermott’s famous patented ferrule technology. It owns the name of a sledgehammer for a reason. It is powerful and will precisely distribute energy towards the cue ball upon hitting with the utmost force.
This break pool stick is owned by the best players all around the globe who use it with pride and reliability. The tip of the pool cue stick is also thoughtfully designed that features a 13.25mm phenolic tip to give you maximum control and ease during your game. This will eliminate unwanted miscues and unnecessary spins.
What’s more, the handle comprises of a texture sport grip wrap. This will not only ensure a stable grip throughout the game but will also give it a modish and cool outlook. The joint attaching the two halves of this break cue is very simple to detach and attach as well.
All in all, this pool break cue undeniable includes all the best features that you can expect from high performing and robust billiard break cues.
The McDermott break cue is the true definition of reliability and robustness. This cue also comes with free shipping.
To learn more about this amazing breaking cue, click on the button below.
4. Cuetec WCT Billiard Break Cue Review
Pros
- Strong and sturdy
- 360° radial consistency
- Affordable price
- Adjustable weight system
Cons
- Lightweight
This is a great pool break cue. It is geared with the most appropriate materials and mechanisms to give you a smooth billiards gaming experience. Its tip is laminated with the signature Tiger Everest 10-layer pigskin lamination similar to many other Cuetec pool cue models. This provides you with an all-around 360° radial consistency.
The 360° measure from Cuetec break cue ensures that you have superior control at all times while playing. Plus, it will also help you dodge unwanted spins. This wooden break cue is made with fine quality Canadian maple to assure you robustness and durability. It looks elegant and is great to play with.
Furthermore, the shaft features a design made of the highest technology to provide you with the best break possible. It efficiently transfers energy depicting the highest level of performance you can expect from the best billiard break cue.
As this bears the mark of a highly reputed brand such as Cuetec, you do not need to worry about the quality of this cue. Cuetec has improved significantly over the years and has successfully overcome all the technical problems that billiard players commonly face.
This particular pool cue from Cuetec is designed to ensure the utmost comfort during maneuvering. You’ll also feel a greater control over your cue stick during your billiard sessions. Apart from a smooth playing experience, this break cue stick also scores high on looks. It’s fashionable and is available in two colors – black and bare wood.
If you have your eyes set on this Cuetec break cue then you can order it with free shipping and have it delivered directly to your door.
To view more details about this product, click the button below.
5. LUCASI Big Beulah 2 Break Pool Cue Stick Review
Pros
- Supersized Bakelite tip
- Superior construction
- Reliable and dependable
Cons
- High price
This pool breaking cue is loaded with the best features you can expect from a Lucasi Custom pool cue. From the shaft to tip, every inch is designed for your benefit. Speaking of the shaft, it measures 13.75mm and is loaded with Lucasi’s patented TSC technology.
This special break cue has a robust design and includes an 8-piece radial shaft construction to ensure that the big Beulah 2 break cue has a construction that’s solid to the core. It is ergonomically designed and will smoothly transfer your energy towards the pool cue stick so you can deliver your best performance every time.
Furthermore, the shaft has a coating of G5 grip that will provide you with the right amount of friction. This means you can play a game of billiards without worrying about unnecessary slips and avoid unwanted spins.
The tip of this Lucasi break cue is also exceptionally constructed to provide you with the ultimate shooting experience. The tip is not only made of Bakelite but is supersized as well. This means you will have greater consistency and experience an explosive reaction while hitting a cue ball with this Lucasi break cue.
The tips are hard and measure 12.75mm and 13.75mm. In case you were wondering, it’s the perfect size for you to break with. This makes the chances of breaks and jumps near to nonexistent and also reduces the occurrence of any miscue.
If you use a lot of english on your breaks you want to get the smaller tip.
In addition, the big Beulah 2 break cue features the well-known Big Beulah’s unique 4-piece butt construction. It’s sturdy and robust buildup guarantees durability and reliability. It will also help you aim straight and hit the right spot every time.
To learn more information about this product, click the button below!
6. Cuetec Meteor Break Cue Review
Pros
- Robust and durable
- Affordable price
- Lightweight
Cons
- Available only in black color
Last but not least in this list of best pool break cues is another one from Cuetec. The Cuetec Meteor Break Cue! Cuetec never fails to deliver, and honestly they typically exceed expectations and this product is yet another example of that.
Here we have another wooden pool cue from Cuetec that is made with the finest quality Canadian maple wood. Robust and sturdy, it is a cue you can fully rely on. Along with being made of fine quality maple wood, the shaft of this Cuetec break cue has a composite coating to provide you with a solid break.
One of the main elements of a break pool cue stick is its tip and Cuetec ensures that the tip is of the best in all their pool breaking sticks. The tip of this one is also unique as it features a meteor hard fine-layer cowhide tip that will unquestionably provide you with a firm hit every time.
Along with all these, the ferrule of this pool breaking cue is made with Bakelite material that intensifies the breaking power so that you can enjoy a flawless breaking experience. The shaft is made of maple wood and contains a composite coating to assure you a firm and solid hit on the cue ball.
Despite being made of maple wood, this break pool cue stick is amazingly light in weight, measuring only 19 ounces. And of course, you can avail all these amazing features and own a professional Cuetec break cue at an affordable price. This will definitely be a worthy companion for several victories to come.
You can purchase this break pool stick within an affordable price without paying any shipping charges.
If you would like to learn more about this Cuetec break cue, click on the button below.
Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose The Best Break Cue
By now, you should have a crystal clear idea regarding the crucial and deciding factors that you must consider to buy the best pool break cue. There are many areas that you need to focus on. This includes the material of the break pool cue, its design, the construction and engineering, the components that form the insides, and also the tip of the break sticks.
So, before you make your final decision to purchase an elite break cue, here are some pointers to think about.
Material
The material of the best pool break cue must be of premium quality to be able to provide you with excellent service. This is also directly related to the durability and longevity of the break pool cue stick. Also, the right material can make the stick glide over your bridge even when your hands are sweaty.
You have two wide categories to choose from when it comes to selecting an elite break cue, which are wooden pool break cues and carbon fiber pool break cues.
I personally like Carbon Fiber Pool Cues. However, I will say with enough practice you can get just as good with a wooden cue as a carbon fiber cue.
Wooden pool cues have a sophisticated edge in them and look highly elegant. They look classic and also deliver high performance.
For wooden pool cues, the best quality wood is a high grade premium maple wood. This will provide an elegant luster and shine to your pool cue stick and retain it for ages to come.
On the contrary, carbon fiber pool breaking sticks look more contemporary and modish in design. These are typically loaded with the latest features and thus are mostly used in big tournaments and world championships.
Weight
The weight of the break pool cue stick is also another crucial factor to consider. The perfect weight will allow you to play with ease and confidence, along with giving you the optimum flair.
Besides, the ideal weight will ensure that less pressure and strain is exerted on your arms and muscles, so that you can deliver your best performance for a longer time. Wooden pool cues tend to be heavier than the carbon fiber ones.
The optimum weight is around 18-19 ounces typically for a normal playing cue. However, since you’re only using this stick for the break, it is common for them to be heavier so that you can put more power behind the break. Some break cues weigh up to 25 or on rare occasions 28 ounces.
However, every player is different so the standard weights may not fit your playing style, hands and strength. So, in order to accommodate all types of players, many manufacturers will either adjust the weight for you when you order or have an adjustable weight system built into the stick. All in all, you should opt for a break pool cue that best suits your playing style and has the perfect weight according to you.
Construction
The construction and engineering of your break stick is a vital. This defines the main structure of the cue stick and its functionality mostly depends on this. Here, the shaft and ferrule are two important parts that contribute towards the structure of the breaking cue.
The shaft is the outer coating and the main body of the pool cue. You must ensure that it is made of the finest quality material so that it can serve you for a longer period of time. A good shaft will also protect your pool cue stick from warping and denting, making it look as good as new even if you are a frequent player. Most good carbon fiber shafts are warp proof or resistant.
On the other hand, the ferrule is a part of the shaft that lies below the tip of a pool cue stick. It plays the role of a buffer that joins the tip and the cue shaft. What’s more, it absorbs the shock that is exerted when a cue ball is hit, so that the shaft does not split even while hitting hard on explosive breaks. Bakelite ferrules are the best in the market and they increase breaking power.
Additionally, the construction must include a composite coating for a firm and solid hit. The material should be comfortable enough and non-slippery to give you a steady grip all throughout the game. Some pool cues also contain a rubber coating on the butt to give you that superior grip.
Tip
When it comes to selecting a break pool cue, the tip is another crucial element as it will ultimately dictate how well you control explosive shots. Large size tips are easier to play with and provide great consistency but less english control. So, it’s good to have a balance on break cues. I’d recommend between 13mm and 13.75mm for most players. Advanced players may want to go even smaller.
Price
Needless to mention, the price is another important element to ponder upon. Elite break cues with superior functions and elements tend to cost more comparatively. However, with so many options, it’s easy to fall into marketing traps and you may end up purchasing a pool cue that will cost you a fortune!
There are so many products within an affordable price range that are currently available, it just takes a little research. The first 2 on this list are a little pricey but they are also very good pool cues. Most players would be happy with any break cue on this list but an advanced player may get a better break from the top 3 listed above.
Why Choose A Break Cue Over A Combined Jump Break Cue?
As with most other things, when it comes to pool break cues, having a product with combined functionality will often leave out emphasis on the special features. A dedicated break cue has a hard tip and contains more sturdiness as opposed to a combined jump break cue. The latter is more susceptible to damage as it is not essentially designed to play powerful and explosive shots. It has to balance between jumping and breaking features.
If you would like to check out the best combined jump break cues. You can find them by clicking here.
I cant believe companies sell or even make these heavy breaking cues?.. Its a common misconception that heavier cues break better, its false and actually counterproductive. Reason I say this isnt opinion..its a scientific fact and I saw it proven in Vegas International event one yr. They had a actual breaking robotic arm to use different weight cues and the arm could reproduce the same force equally each time for research purposes. And basically what it proved was what most pros know, a lighter cue broke best…the actual best performance was with a 17oz!!
They broke with cues from 17 to a loaded 28oz cue!! What actually creates the most breaking force is cue speed…and heavier cues lessen speed…lighter cues allow more speed and acceleration thru the ball. That’s the reason most home run hitters use light bats now vs heavy ones previously, light bat creates more nat speed equals more force. They even used a radar gun to prove the cue theory and the best spread and most balls pocketed on the break was at around 32 mph by the 17oz cue…the heavier the cue got the slower the mpg gets thus the worse the break and force got. And get this…the worst break and force and slowest mph was by the ” supposed” weight loaded break cue at 28oz!! The second worst was by a very well known and commonly used carbon “break” cue that weighed 27oz!! I wont name the brand..but I think we all know what brand I’m talking about..lol
Let’s just say the logo involves a very popular wild cat….lol
And yet so many people use these and other brands of similar weight to break with??
A heavier cue is also a little more difficult to throw forward accurately, where a light cue is easier and more accurate!! Well I’m off my soapbox on this subject for now..lol
I hope this makes sense and helps someone to improve their break!! Trust me..my breaking saw a huge improvement when I stopped using a 21oz to break…and went to a 18oz!!
Try it..whatcha got to to lose??
??
Thanks for this info, I hope this helps someone in deciding which break cue to use.