What are the important and critical aspects about billiards that you have to learn? There are many people who are passionate in playing pool but are not familiar with the technicalities of the game. Those who claim to be experts in pool cues may not be aware that there are 13 parts starting from the bumper on one end up to the tip at the opposite end.

This article is useful for both the newbie and the experts as it is a comprehensive discussion at how it is made and how it is effectively used by players.

1. Tip – The tip is usually made with leather. The size of the tip is about a centimeter in diameter. It is essential that players properly care and maintain the tip, as failure to do so will result to reduced friction with the cue ball.
2. Ferrule – This part serves as the protector for the wooden part. This cue part is made out of ivory or other types of material. The material used for the ferrule must be durable enough to withstand the impact with the marble cue ball.
3. Shaft – This part of the cue is made with wood. Maple is the preferred material primarily because it is sturdy and can last for a longer period of time.
4. Trim Ring – This part protects the wood. It particularly protects the joint area of the stick. The trim ring is made out of stainless steel or a kind of hard plastic. This part of the stick ensures that it all stays in one piece once hit.
5. Joint – The joint allows for a more compact way to travel with your cue stick. The stick can be taken apart by the joint after use or when storing the stick.
6. Forearm – This is one of the main reasons for the cost of a particular stick. It can be made out of bird’s eye maple, ebony, or any other hard wood.
7. Forearm Inlay – This is the major determinant of the price tag of the stick. The cost of the stick will depend on the material that is used for the forearm inlay.
8. Handle – This is where your hand is placed and where most of the shot’s control comes from.
9. Linen Wrap – The material is used as protector of the handle area. As the name implies, this part is made from some cloth-like material or linen. There are high-end sticks that use leather and this is factored in the premium price of this type of sticks. There are also low priced sticks that use nylon instead of actual cloth.
10. Butt Sleeve – This is located immediately below the handle area or the wrap. The high priced variants are usually made out of exotic wood materials.
11. Butt Sleeve Inlay – This is also a major contributor to the final cost of the stick.
12. Butt Cap – This serves as the protection for the stick while the player is chalking.
13. Bumper – This part protects the stick’s bottom end.