Chinese-style billiard cue It is a striking tool made of high-quality wood, with a tapered shaft that is thinner at the tip and thicker at the butt; its length can vary. Generally, the cue should not be shorter than 91 cm, as an excessively long cue is difficult to handle, compromising both aiming and stroke execution. Therefore, it’s important to choose a cue that suits your personal style. A typical cue has a round shaft, tapering from thin at the tip to thick at the butt, and measures about 1.3 to 1.5 meters in length, with the tip (the thinner end) measuring approximately 9–12 mm in diameter. The quality of the cue tip directly affects your shot: a well‑crafted leather tip is elastic, helps control impact force, and prevents slippage. To avoid slipping, apply chalk powder to the tip after three or four strokes, and regularly trim and polish the leather to keep it in optimal condition. Typically, the cue tip is made of hard metal or plastic, while the leather tip is affixed to the head for protective purposes.

　　How should a Chinese-style billiard cue be maintained and cared for?

　　A quality cue is crafted from natural wood. Although the material undergoes multiple processing and screening steps, its lack of a protective finish means that, with improper care, both the exterior and internal structure can still degrade. Moreover, due to the cue’s slender shape and frequent striking, it is prone to damage. Therefore, to ensure stability and prolong its lifespan, meticulous maintenance is essential.

　　1. During use, keep the cue clean and wipe it regularly with a dry cloth to prevent sweat and other contaminants from seeping into the wood and corroding the shaft. For cue sticks with threaded joints, ensure the threaded surfaces remain clean, and avoid wiping the cue with a damp cloth. Additionally, apply cue oil periodically to protect the cue from performance‑degrading effects caused by fluctuations in humidity and temperature.

　　II. When not in use, keep your cue as vertical as possible or store it in a well‑constructed cue case. Avoid leaving your cue for extended periods in environments with excessively high or low temperatures or significant humidity fluctuations (e.g., near a heater or in a car trunk).

　　3. If the wood surface shows even slight changes, avoid sanding with coarse-grit sandpaper; if necessary, gently wipe it with polishing sandpaper and immediately apply a clear finish. For more substantial alterations, professional refinishing is essential.

　　4. Avoid frequently striking or vibrating the mallet (especially those with buckles), and do not use a cue without a protective cover to strike the ball. If any parts—such as copper rings or threaded components—become loose, repair them promptly to prevent damage to the wood that cannot be remedied.

　　Billiard cues are crafted from various types of solid wood. A hallmark of solid wood is its tendency to absorb moisture in humid environments and release it in dry conditions, which can cause the cue to warp or shrink. To prevent warping and issues with the finish, proper storage is crucial. We recommend storing your cue in a cue case in a room maintained at 23–26°C. Additionally, avoid leaving your cue in a car, the trunk, or any location subject to extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity.