Billiards Speak

Never sand out a dent or a nick in your shaft. If you aren’t squeamish about such things, dab a little saliva on the dent, time after time over a few weeks. Tap water works fine too. If the dent isn’t too deep the wood will eventually swell to where it is barely noticeable or gone entirely. If the dent is deeper or more bothersome, carefully use an iron with a damp cloth to force steam into the dent. The wood pores expand and bring the dented area to the surface. This method will require smoothing off the expanded area and the dent should be gone. Better yet, unless you just like caring for your cue yourself, take your shaft to a qualified repair-person. For a few dollars your shaft will be cleaned, dents removed and the shaft re-sealed. It is well worth the charge.