Retipping Your Cue

We often get asked what is the best way to tip a pool or snooker cue. Well in answer to
this question we have created this small guide. We hope it helps.

Choosing The Right Tip For Your Cue
With the number of tips available and the variety of sizes and densities, selecting a tip can be
an overwhelming task. We're here to answer some of the most frequent questions about tips.

Tip Density
As you know, different tips have different densities or levels of hardness ranging from soft to extra hard. At its most basic level, the softer the cue tip, the more likely it is to mushroom or flatten out with each hit of the cue ball. So therefore the soft tip will require more maintenance than a harder tip.

Many players that prefer a soft tip believe there is a relation between tip softness and control.
The feeling is the softer the tip, the more control you gain over the ball. In addition, softer tips
are typically easier to scuff and have better chalk retention.

The other camp has players who prefer a harder tip. Generally speaking, a harder cue tip will last longer and retain its shape better than a soft tip. With a hard tip, you'll be replacing your tip much less frequently than a soft tip. In addition, many players who enjoy hard tips feel that they can achieve more control and consistency with a hard tip.

So Many To Choose From...
So now that you know a little about tips, which one should you buy? By far, the most popular tip we have are the Blue Diamond Tips. These tips are extremely affordable at £26.99 for a box of 50 tips- working out to only 53p each.

If you're looking for a quality soft tip for a reasonable price, look no further than the Elkmaster Tips. These tips, priced at £17.99 for a box of 50 and are one of the more popular soft tips available.

Removing the Old Tip
To do this you need a sharp implement, preferably a pen knife or Stanley knife. For best results, clamp the cue so that it doesn't slip. Put electrical tape around the ferrule to prevent scratches and provide some protection. Place the knife between the top of the ferrule and the bottom of the tip and cut away from yourself (it is recommended that an adult does this). Most tips will come away fairly easily, however some tips might require some sawing action.

Replacing the Tip
Firstly, make sure that both surfaces are clean, then:

- Remove old glue residue
- Remove any chalk residue

Next, use a light sandpaper but try to keep the ferrule surface flat, as if the top becomes rounded the tips will fall off repeatedly. Place glue onto both surfaces (a very small amount is all that is required). We recommend a gel based substance such as tipping cement which can be found in the cue maintenance section of our store.

Tipping adhesives allow you to move the tip around until it is in the correct position. Apply firm pressure to the tip for around five minutes and then leave to dry for at least two - three hours (overnight for best results). Make sure you clean up any residue glue, protecting the ferrule with tape again for best results.