How to Care for a Pool Cue
There are about a dozen different materials in a typical two-piece cue. All of those materials expand and contract differently with heat and cold. The constant expanding and contracting is largely responsible for components of a cue being eventually felt through the finish. The finish is also worn down over time just by handling and playing with a cue. Taking it out of a case, putting it back in the case, cleaning the cue, in short every time it is touched the finish is being worn down. Metal rings are a particular problem. Because metal will expand and contract more readily than the other materials in a cue. Moisture, or humidity, is another cue killer. Most materials will absorb water and they swell when they do. The various results of exposure to temperature extremes alone can be severe. Joints become brittle and lose, rings poke through a previously smooth finish, inlays pop up and the finish separates from the surface of the wood. Unless you are going to hermetically seal the cue in a temperature and humidity controlled environment all you can do is slow down the process. In almost every cue with metal rings you will eventually be able to feel them through the finish.
Tags: accessories, billiard, pool cues, supplies
