Break Cues: What's The Difference?

by Sarah Mausolf | reviewed by John Echevarria

The opening break sets the tone for the rest of the game. That’s why some players use a separate playing cue or break cue for this shot.

What's the difference between a break cue and a playing cue?

Players once sought out break cues that were heavier than their playing cue, but many young players, amateur and professional, are turning to cues lighter than or the same weight as their playing cue. Break cues typically come in two or three pieces. The taper is usually less severe on a break cue to curb deflection.

Cue tips on a break cue tend to be flatter and wider than those on playing cues. The flattened tip provides more contact area between the cue tip and the cue ball resulting in a more solid hit. The typical tip width for break cues is 13 mm or wider but can range from 11 1/2 to 14 mm. Phenolic and hard leather tips are the more popular choices for a break cue tip. Some players choose a shorter ferrule for a harder hit while others swear by a one piece tip and ferrule combination.

Break cues could fall into the category of pool & billiard accessories. Although a growing number of players are embracing them, others view them as unnecessary luxuries. Some players simply prefer to use their playing cue or house cue for the opening break.

Break cues aren’t for everyone, but some players appreciate a cue which is tailored to the break. With more surface area for contact and less flexion in the shaft, break cues promise their fans a consistent opening break.

More information about break cues to come... To be notified of new and updated articles, please sign up for our free monthly newsletter!

Updated 7/2007