Cue thread: Discovered while playing billiards

We’re always on the lookout for hidden gems in unexpected places. This time around, we stumbled upon something intriguing within the world of billiards—specifically, the threads used in cue sticks. As snooker continues to gain popularity as a professional sport and pool tables become staples in pubs and sports bars worldwide, chances are you’ve given billiards a try. But did you ever stop to think about where the thread comes into play in this classic game?

The billiard thread is cleverly concealed. While seasoned players might already know what we’re referring to, newcomers might not immediately spot it. Here’s a hint: it’s hiding in plain sight, right inside the cue.

The cue isn’t just a long wooden stick; it’s a complex tool designed to suit each player’s unique style. While some cues are crafted as single pieces, they’re rare in competitive settings. Most cues can be divided into two main sections: the upper part and the lower part. The upper portion focuses on precision, with its tip—the pommel—being the critical contact point with the ball. The pommel, typically made of leather, sits atop the ferrule, which acts as a buffer. The rest of the upper section consists of the shaft, which rests comfortably between the player’s fingers during gameplay.

The lower section of the cue is designed for a secure grip, often wrapped with a grip band. It ends with the buttcap, providing balance and stability. Sandwiched between these two halves lies the joint, where the magic happens—this is where the cue threads are located.

Understanding Billiard Cue Threads: A Closer Look

If you think of a cue as a basic wooden rod, you’d likely offend avid billiards enthusiasts. In reality, it’s a highly specialized piece of equipment, capable of being customized based on the player’s preferences. While some cues are solid rods, they’re seldom seen in professional games.

Most cues can be split into two primary sections: the upper and the lower. The upper part is where the action happens—it houses the tip, known as the pommel, which is the only part of the cue that directly interacts with the ball. The pommel is typically made of leather and is affixed to the ferrule, which serves as a shock absorber. The remainder of the upper section includes the shaft, which players grip between their fingers during play.

The lower section focuses on offering a firm grip to the player. It may feature a textured grip band and ends with the buttcap. Between these two halves lies the joint, where the magic of the cue threads takes place.

The Role of Cue Threads in Billiards

The primary function of cue threads is to connect the upper and lower sections of the cue. However, threads also play a vital role in other areas of the cue. Let’s explore where they come into play.

Adjusting Length with Cue Threads

Cue threads enable billiards players to break down their equipment for easier transportation. This is particularly advantageous since cues can be lengthy and unwieldy. With cue threads, a cue can be easily disassembled into smaller parts. Additionally, these threads allow for interchangeable parts.

Cue threads cater to the specific demands of various billiard variations. For instance, in snooker, the playing table is much larger than in traditional pool, making it challenging for players to reach the cue ball effectively. To address this, players can use bridge cues as support or extend their cues—thanks to cue threads! Extensions can be attached to the cue via threads, making it an ideal solution for those who don’t own an entire arsenal of cues in different lengths and styles. With cue threads, you can effortlessly adjust the cue to meet your needs.

On the flip side, some specialized shots require shorter cues. Special versions of cues exist where the rear section can be unscrewed using cue threads, allowing players to execute tricky jump shots seamlessly.

Cue Threads at the Tip

The pommel sees a lot of action in billiards since it’s the only part that touches the ball. Naturally, it experiences significant wear and tear, necessitating regular replacements. Some manufacturers use adhesive connections, while others opt for screw connections. Depending on the design, you might even find cue threads at the tip of your cue.

Cue Threads at the Buttcap

The buttcap at the base of the cue plays a crucial role in weight distribution, which impacts the overall feel of the game. Weight adjustments can be made using weight screws, which are hidden beneath the buttcap. Using cue threads, these screws can be removed or swapped to tailor the weight to individual preferences. Many manufacturers also use threads to attach the buttcap to the cue itself.

Diving Deeper: Types of Cue Threads

Here’s where things get interesting. There isn’t just one type of cue thread; instead, there’s a diverse range of thread types and standards, each favored by different manufacturers. Most commonly, these threads are measured in inches. Manufacturers usually specify the thread types in their product details, though this limits your options when choosing individual components—you can’t freely mix and match parts.

When it comes to materials, cue threads vary widely. They can be made of plastic, wood, metal, or any other suitable material used in cue construction. Sometimes the bolt with the external thread is placed on the upper section, and other times it’s on the lower section.

Beyond traditional screw threads, some cues incorporate quick-release connections. These cues have fewer threads, enabling faster part replacements.

Unfortunately, there’s no universal guideline for cue threads. However, we’re happy to answer nearly any other question about thread taps. Feel free to reach out to our customer service team for guidance. Our BAER online shop offers a wide range of thread tools compatible with all major thread types.