Pool Cue Joint Types Chart – How to Identify Your Cue Joint
Common pool cue joint types include 5/16x14, 5/16x18, 3/8x10, Uni-Loc, Radial, Viking Quick Release, McDermott Quick Release, and Turbo-Lock systems.
Pool cue joints come in several different types, and identifying the correct one is important when buying accessories such as joint protectors, replacement shafts, extensions, or adapters.
Many players are unsure which joint their cue uses. Fortunately, identifying the joint type is usually simple once you know what to look for.
This guide will help you quickly recognize the most common pool cue joint types.
What Is a Pool Cue Joint?
The joint is the connection point where the shaft and butt of a pool cue screw together.
Each joint uses a specific pin type and thread pattern, and these are not interchangeable. Using the wrong accessories can damage the cue or simply not fit at all.
The most common joint types used in pool cues include:
- 5/16x14
- 5/16x18
- 3/8x10
- Uni-Loc
- Radial
- Quick Release systems
Step 1 – Look at the Pin Thread Pattern
The easiest way to identify a cue joint is to look closely at the pin threads.
Some joints have fine threads, others have coarse threads, and some use special quick-release designs.
5/16x14 Joint
The 5/16x14 joint is a classic cue joint used by many traditional cue makers.
- Fine thread pattern
- Narrow pin diameter
- Typically requires several turns to tighten
This joint is commonly used on cues from brands such as Falcon, Joss, and other traditional cue makers.
5/16x18 Joint
The 5/16x18 joint is one of the most common joint types used in modern pool cues.
- Fine threads similar to 5/16x14
- Slightly different thread spacing
- Secure and durable connection
This joint is widely used by brands such as Players, Valhalla, ASKA and many production cues.
3/8x10 Joint
The 3/8x10 joint uses a thicker pin with deeper threads.
- Larger pin diameter
- Coarser threads
- Often used on custom cues
This joint provides a strong connection and is popular among many cue makers.
Quick Release Joint Systems
Some cue manufacturers use quick-release joints designed to assemble the cue with fewer turns.
These joints are easy to recognize because the pin design is very different from standard threaded pins.
Uni-Loc Quick Release
The Uni-Loc Quick Release joint uses a specially designed pin that locks quickly into the shaft.
- Unique pin shape
- Very fast assembly
- Often used on Predator and Lucasi cues
McDermott Quick Release
The McDermott Quick Release joint is used on many higher-end McDermott pool cues.
- Fast connection system
- Designed for precise shaft alignment
- Used primarily on modern McDermott cues
Viking Quick Release
The Viking Quick Release joint is used on most modern Viking cues.
- Quick assembly design
- Very consistent fit between shaft and butt
- Common on current Viking cue models
Quick-Lock Joint
The Quick-Lock joint allows the cue to tighten with less than one full turn, making setup very fast.
This system is used on some ASKA jump-break cues and jump models such as JC01 and JC02.
Turbo-Lock Joint
The Turbo-Lock joint is another quick-release style system designed for fast cue assembly.
This joint is used on some Pure X pool cues and other modern cue designs.
Radial-Style Joints
Some cues use radial-style pins that have a rounded thread shape.
These joints provide excellent shaft alignment and are commonly used on higher-end production cues and custom cues.
Radial Joint
The Radial joint uses rounded threads rather than sharp ones.
- Rounded thread profile
- Very solid hit and alignment
- Common on Predator, Lucasi, and other premium cues
Why Identifying the Correct Joint Matters
Knowing your cue’s joint type is important when purchasing accessories such as:
- joint protectors
- replacement shafts
- cue extensions
- joint adapters
Using the wrong thread type will simply not fit your cue.
If you are unsure which joint your cue uses, comparing the pin on your cue to the images above usually makes identification easy.
How Do I Know What Joint My Pool Cue Has?
The easiest way to identify your pool cue joint is to look at the pin in the cue butt and compare it with a cue joint chart.
Most pool cues use common joints such as 5/16x14, 5/16x18, 3/8x10, Uni-Loc Quick Release, or Radial. Matching the pin shape and thread pattern is usually enough to identify the correct joint type.
If your cue brand is known, that can also help narrow it down, but visually comparing the pin is still the fastest and most reliable method.
Pool Cue Joint Types Comparison Chart
The chart below shows the most common pool cue joint types and how their pins look. Comparing your cue pin to this chart is often the fastest way to identify your joint.
This visual comparison helps players quickly recognize the differences between fine-thread joints such as 5/16x14 and 5/16x18, larger pins like 3/8x10, and modern systems such as Uni-Loc Quick Release or Radial joints.
Pool Cue Joint Identification Table
| Joint Type | Thread Style | Typical Brands / Usage | Matching Joint Protector |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/16x14 | Fine threads | Falcon, Joss | 5/16x14 Joint Protectors |
| 5/16x18 | Fine threads | Players, Valhalla, ASKA | 5/16x18 Joint Protectors |
| 3/8x10 | Coarse threads | Custom cue makers | 3/8x10 Joint Protectors |
| Radial | Rounded threads | Predator, Lucasi, some others | Radial Joint Protectors |
| Uni-Loc Quick Release | Quick-lock system | Predator, Lucasi | Uni-Loc Joint Protectors |
| McDermott Quick Release | Quick-release system | High-end McDermott cues | McDermott Quick Release Protectors |
| Viking Quick Release | Quick-release system | Modern Viking cues | Viking Quick Release Protectors |
| Quick-Lock | Quick-release system | ASKA jump-break cues (JC01, JC02) | ASKA Quick-Lock Protectors |
| Turbo-Lock | Quick-release system | Pure X cues | Coming Soon |
Not sure which joint your cue uses? Compare your cue pin to the images above, then choose the matching pool cue joint protectors for your cue.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Cue Joints
What is the most common pool cue joint?
One of the most common pool cue joint types is 5/16x18, especially on many production cues. Other very common joints include 5/16x14, 3/8x10, Uni-Loc Quick Release, and Radial.
How can I tell if my cue is 5/16x14 or 5/16x18?
These two joints look similar at first glance, but the thread spacing is different. The safest way to identify them is to compare your cue pin with a known chart or product photo, or check the cue brand and model specifications.
Are pool cue joints interchangeable?
No. Pool cue joints are generally not interchangeable. The pin size, thread pattern, and joint design must match correctly for accessories or shafts to fit.
Will the wrong joint protector damage my cue?
Trying to force the wrong joint protector onto a cue can damage the threads or prevent a proper fit. It is always best to match the exact joint type before buying accessories.
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- Ultimate Pool Cue Guide – Sizes, Weights, Tips, and How to Choose the Right Cue
- Best Pool Cue for Beginners
- Best Pool Cue Brands – A Complete Guide for Pool Players
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- How to Replace a Pool Cue Tip – Step by Step Guide