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You want to enjoy your game of pool, whether you are playing competitively or for leisure. For this to happen, you must choose a good cue stick with a perfect cue tip. Remember that the only part that touches the ball, thus it is an important part of the game. It must be maintained, and occasionally replaced for optimal performance.
So, when do you replace the cue tip? Once the material covering the tip wears out, becomes thin, and produces high pitched sound, then you know It’s time to replace it. If you use a cue stick with a worn-out tip, you will have several instances of miscuing or missing the ball.
This article looks at how to replace the cue tip, maintenance practices, and other related question. Read on for deeper insight.
The Importance of a Cue Tip
If you ever have to ask whether the cue tip is important, think about it this way. It’s the only part that touches the ball. It gives the cue ball the direction you want it to go. It is an important pool game accessory, thus you need to maintain it properly.
How Long Will The Tip Last?
Generally, the lifespan of a cue tip depends on the way it is used, usage frequency, and atmospheric conditions. However, to generalize, we can give it 6 months. Note that softer tips may not last as long as harder tips will do.
If you feel that the game has changed, it is time to inspect the cue tip visually. Further, shoot the ball and get a feel of the shot.
What Causes the Tip to Wear?
As already mentioned, at some time, the cue tip may become worn out, needing replacement. So what causes the wear?
First, when playing pool, you will apply chalk to the tip from time to time to prevent the ball from slipping off the tip and miscuing. Now with time the chalking causes the tip surface to glaze, eventually turning too smooth to serve its purpose.
Another cause of wear is hitting the balls hard. This happens especially during breaking of the balls. This squashes the cue tip, and eventually it becomes hard.
Additionally, the environmental conditions can also contribute to the wear and tear. For instance, too much moisture, or too dry affects the cue tip negatively. Thus, you may need to mind the environment under which you store your cue stick.
The above instances are the main reasons that the cue tears even with proper maintenance measures. At this point, you may want to replace your cue tip to restore your game.
See Also: How to Chalk A Pool Cue
How Do You Replace a Pool Cue Tip?
Once you have determined that the cue tip is no longer in good shape, it’s time to take action and do a replacement. Cue tip replacement is easy, and with the guide below, you can do it yourself.
- Using a sharp knife or razor, remove the old cue tip. As you cut, get as close as you can to the ferrule. Do not do it hastily. Take all the time you need to remove the leather and glue.
- Using smooth sandpaper (60 to 80 grit), get rid of dirt and glue from the top of the ferrule. You want it to be thoroughly clean and flat before moving to the next stage.
- Now make the cue tip rough so that when applying glue, it will adhere well.
- Put the cue tip on the center of the ferrule. You will do this by pressing firmly and getting rid of any air pockets that may develop. Wipe away all glue that may have spilled to the side of the ferrule using a dry towel.
- Now press the tip and allow the glue to dry for about 10 minutes.
- The next staging is the shaping of the cue tip. Everything must be aligned to the ferrule. Slice off anything protruding from the ferrule using a sharp knife.
- Now with your tip firmly attached to the ferrule, it is time to shape it since it may be flat. Sand it well until you like the outcome. Sanding may also help remove any protruding parts.
The first time may be a little challenging, but once you get it right, you will be doing it all the time.
See Also: 4 Best Pool Cue Tips For Breaking
Maintenance Tips for the Pool Cue Tip
As already mentioned, the tip is almost the most important part of the cue stick. It calls for proper maintenance for it to serve you longer. Consider the following:
- Always trim or cut out any protruding excess leather.
- To roughen the tip surface, use rough sandpaper, tip tool, or scuffer.
- When breaking the balls, always use the house cue stick so that you preserve yours.
See Also: How to Maintain a Pool Cue Shaft
Related Questions
Are screwed cue tips good?
The simple answer is no. screws are usually found on not so good house cues, and if you are looking to buy a cue stick, avoid one with screws at the tip.
After how long should you chalk your cue?
Answers to this question may vary, but it is advisable to chalk it before each shot whenever possible. Chalking will add friction during the impact, thus providing extra spin.
See Also:
4 Best Cuetec Pool Cue Reviews
