When playing snooker, one of the most important components is the snooker cue. Using a cue that is too big or small for you can negatively affect your gameplay, so it is important to know the basics. Whether you are a novice at the game or want to learn more about cues, today we are answering some of the most frequently asked questions about snooker cues.

If you're looking to buy top quality snooker cues, snooker tables or any other snooker or billiards accessories, be sure to browse our comprehensive selection today. Hamilton billiards is a leading manufacturer of bespoke snooker and pool tables and has over 40 years of experience. To find out more, call 0800 9704455 or email [email protected].

women playing cue sport

Why do we put chalk on snooker cues?

Please put chalk on the snooker cue tips to add friction to the cue and prevent the queue from sliding off the ball, which can happen as a result of a worn cue, which smoothens over time.

What size is the tip of a snooker cue?

Most snooker cue tips are between 9.5mm and 10mm long, but some cues can be as small as 9mm.

What are snooker cue tips made of?

Snooker cue tips can be made of several different materials, including compressed chalk and laminated pig skin.

When do you need to replace a snooker cue tip?

When it comes to snooker cue tips, harder tips take longer to break. Softer tips are less durable and will need to be replaced after frequent use. You may start to notice the tip getting thinner over time or even splitting – this is a sign to replace it.

person putting chalk on snooker cue

How are snooker cues are made?

Snooker cues can either be machine cut or cut by hand. They are almost always made using ash wood, though some are made with maple wood, as it is stiffer and cheaper than ash wood.

How long is a snooker cue?

Snooker cues are typically between 57 and 59 inches long, but if you are under 5”6, a 56-inch cue may be more comfortable.

How do you choose the right snooker cue?

When choosing a snooker cue, you need to take into account cue length, cue weight, tip size, wood type and whether you want a 1 piece or jointed cue.

person making jump shot snooker

What is the best snooker cue for beginners?

When choosing a cue, one of the most important factors is how it feels. For beginners, we recommend 57 inch One Piece Ramin Cue or 57 inch 2 Piece Tornado Cue.

How do you hold a snooker cue?

There are two main types of grips when holding a snooker cue. The first is the time grip, where the player will make a ring around the queue with their index finger and thumb. The other type is a pressure grip, where a ring is made around the queue with the thumb and middle finger – this is the grip Ronnie O’Sullivan uses.

How do you clean a snooker cue?

A snooker cue can be cleaned with a damp microfiber cloth, which will remove some of the chalk residue. Some snooker players have revealed that baby wipes are great for removing chalk and grime, but others swear by a simple paper towel.

person playing cue sport

What snooker cue does Ronnie O’Sullivan use?

Ronnie O’Sullivan has been known to use both Hunt & Osborne and John Parris cues. His cues are often around 58.25 inches in length.

What snooker cue does Judd Trump use?

Judd Trump uses a John Parris cue.

What brand of snooker cue does Mark Selby use?

Mark Selby uses a snooker cue with a 9.5mm tip.

Where can you buy snooker cues?

Snooker cues can be purchased from most sports and games shops, but handmade cues are always better than manufactured cues. Hamilton Billiards has an extensive collection of high-quality, yet affordable, snooker cues.

We hope that this article was helpful to answer any and all snooker-cue related questions you might have had. To find out more about snooker, pool and billiards be sure to check out our blog, If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.