This Craig Petersen cue is an example of refinishing work performed here at Proficient Billiards.
Craig Petersen (often spelled Peterson) custom pool cues are highly sought-after, rare collectible items crafted by a legendary Chicago cuemaker renowned for his meticulous, multi-step shaft-making process and classic aesthetic. Petersen began making cues in 1965 out of a small room at Chicago’s North Shore Billiards, initially utilizing piloted brass joints and understated “Merry Widow” wood designs. He later collaborated closely with fellow Hall of Fame maker Burton Spain. Because Petersen passed away from lung cancer attributed to clearcoat chemical exposure and left behind a limited production run, his authenticated cues command premium vintage prices.
Key Identifying Features
- Piloted Joints: Earliest builds feature a piloted brass joint, while later variants frequently used a 5/16-14 or 5/16-18 joint pin.
- Meticulous Shafts: Petersen was famous for a strict 15-step wood conditioning and shaping process that he kept highly guarded.
- Premium Materials: Frequent use of high-figured curly maple, bird’s-eye maple forearms, cocobolo points, and traditional Cortland linen or kid leather wraps.