How-To Replace My Cue Tip

Alright, snooker aficionado! Let’s embark on the thrilling adventure of changing a cue tip 😉

It might not be as nail-biting as a deciding frame in the World Championship, but done right, it’ll make sure your shots are just as sharp.

1. When To Change Your Cue Tip:

• Wear and tear: If your tip looks flatter than a pancake, it’s time for a change.
• Mushrooming: If the sides of the tip are spilling over the ferrule (the little white part at the top of the cue), you’re in the danger zone.
• Hardness: If you tap the tip and it sounds like you’re knocking on a front door, it’s too hard and needs replacing.
• Miscues: If you’re suddenly miscueing more than you used to, your tip might be betraying you. Time for an intervention!

2. The Necessary Arsenal:

• A new cue tip (obviously). There are heaps of brands like Elk Master, Triangle, or Talisman.
• Superglue or cue tip glue.
• A sharp knife or a tip shaper.
• Sandpaper (around 400 grit) or a tip burnisher.
• Tip clamp or rubber band.

3. Operation Tip Replacement:

Step A: Removal

1. Using your sharp knife, gently slice off the old tip. Be careful! Don’t hurt your precious cue or, more importantly, yourself.
2. Once removed, use sandpaper to flatten and smooth the ferrule. Aim for a surface smoother than a fresh potting cloth.

Step B: Installation

1. Check the base of the new tip. It should be flat. If it’s not, give it a gentle rub with the sandpaper.
2. Apply a small drop of superglue (or cue tip glue) to the ferrule. Don’t go overboard – you’re not trying to flood the table.
3. Carefully place the tip on the glue, ensuring it’s centered.
4. Using a tip clamp or rubber band, secure the tip in place. This is to make sure it forms a strong bond while drying.

Step C: Shaping

1. After the glue has dried (usually a few hours, but read the glue’s instructions), it’s shaping time.
2. Using your knife or tip shaper, shape the tip. The aim is to get a nice dome shape, much like the top of a boiled egg.
3. Sand the sides if there’s any overhang.

Step D: Burnishing

1. This is the final polish. Using a piece of leather or a specific burnisher tool, rub the sides of the tip. This seals the tip and gives it a polished look.

4. Some Final Wit: Remember, a snooker cue is like a wizard’s wand. It’s all about the personal touch. So treat it with care, and in return, it’ll ensure you’re potting balls smoother than Ronnie O’Sullivan on a good day.

Good luck, and may your tip always be in top form!

Peter Tesh • Senior Writer

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