I. Nine-ball cue the anterior segment

　　The tip of a nine-ball cue (commonly referred to as the striking tip) is generally categorized into solid‑wood tips and composite tips. In terms of thickness, it typically comes in diameters of 11.75 mm, 12.5 mm, 12.75 mm, and 13.00 mm. As for design, it is broadly divided into two types: traditional taper and speed taper (professional taper).

　　In the technology section, there are three types of wood‑based technologies, varying in complexity: hollow, filled, and composite wood. “Hollow” refers to a construction where the front portion near the tip is not solid. “Filled” builds on the hollow design by incorporating materials with densities different from that of wood; “composite wood” takes this a step further by layering and bonding distinct wood pieces into a single, unified front. Compared with solid‑wood fronts, regardless of the technique employed, these designs can reduce the deflection of the cue ball upon impact, making follow shots easier to execute. However, they are not particularly easy to control, and their service life tends to be relatively short.

　　II. Middle wheel of the nine-ball cue

　　The materials used for center wheel guards include metal, bakelite, and the commonly seen plastic center wheels, as well as some more expensive options such as ivory and antler center wheels. The purpose of a center wheel guard is to protect the interface screws from splitting under stress and to enhance the overall appearance.

　　III. Nine-ball cue tip joint

　　There are two types of interfaces: wooden teeth and metal teeth. For example, the Axi series and SW of Mezz both feature a wooden‑tooth design, while the vast majority of the Jaguar series use a metal‑tooth interface. There are two common misconceptions here.

　　Misconception 1: Wooden teeth are composed of male and female teeth, not screws. Men and women—do you always separate them? When a child is born, how do you determine their gender? Well, what you’re thinking is correct: the protruding teeth are called male teeth, while the recessed ones are called female teeth. Are we talking about iron teeth or wooden teeth? In 90% of cases, we’re referring to female teeth rather than male teeth. In other words, Axi refers to the joint of the anterior segment—the female teeth are made of wood. This time I understand. As for the remaining 10%, some male teeth used in punches and jump bars will indeed be made of wood.

　　Misconception 2: Iron‑toothed interfaces are more robust than wooden‑toothed ones. This statement is entirely incorrect. When driving a screw into wood, you should aim for the screw’s threads rather than applying excessive force. Moreover, iron teeth do not necessarily last significantly longer than wooden ones.

　　IV. The Grip of the Nine-Ball Cue

　　There are three types of grips: lightweight handles, threaded handles, and leather/plastic handles.

　　From a very subtle perspective, the club delivers excellent force feedback. However, due to its smooth finish, it’s not recommended for those who tend to sweat. The cord‑wrapped grip absorbs sweat exceptionally well, and the Irish‑twisted handle offers a superb feel. Personally, I don’t see any drawbacks. Leather grips, on the other hand, are more personalized and visually striking, while also providing excellent traction, making the club a true pleasure to look at.

　　V. Leather Handle Type for Nine-Ball Cues

　　1. Cowhide: Very inexpensive. After prolonged pounding, your palms will not only sweat but also become oily.

　　2. Pigskin: Gina’s official pigskin offers excellent grip and sweat-absorbing performance.

　　3. Lizard skin: One of the most beautiful types of textured leather, offering a just-right grip and a distinct, bold character.

　　4. Ostrich leather: Ostrich foot leather is very sticky. It feels great—quite unusual.

　　5. Elephant‑ear leather: This is very expensive and quite luxurious, and I’ve never had the chance to use it. My cue sticks mostly have bare handles, and I can’t change them. If I could, I wouldn’t want to. However, it’s said to be one of the finest types of leather for cue handles—and there isn’t a single one like it.

　　6. There are also other unusual leather materials.