How to choose a shaft When it comes to choosing a shaft, there are some things you need to know: 1. Joint type There are several popular joint types. You need to recognize the one your cue has. Joint types differ by size and pin threads, diameter, facing (flat or piloted), pin height. Here are the most popular joint types: 3/8 x 10, 3/8 x 8, 5/16 x 14, 5/16 x 16 and Uni-Loc Some cue manufacturers make their own joints, so the shaft needs to have the same. What is a joint? Simply put, the joint is the area where the butt and the shaft of the cue connect. The joint can be made from any number of materials, however most often joints are made from plastic (also referred to as composite and phenolic), wood and stainless steel. The joint type can affect the feel of the cue, which we'll discuss a bit later. On most cues, you'll find that the male end of the cue is on the butt where the pin is located. The female connector is typically located on the shaft end of the cue. 2. Collar If you wish your cue to look solid you need a shaft with the same collar type and size your cue has. If your butt sleeve has a black collar and a silver ring, for aesthetic reasons you need a shaft with same color height collar and a silver ring. If your cue has a wood-to-wood joint, then you need a no collar shaft. At last, measure the diameter at the joint – your shaft has to have the same. Also, check out the shafts compatibility table
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