This is a Black Boar AS Series cue just finished up here at Proficient Billiards.
Black Boar Custom Cues are widely recognized as some of the finest, most highly coveted custom pool cues in the billiards world, celebrated for combining elite engineering physics with masterwork artistry. Established in 1986 by legendary cue maker Tony Scianella, the shop operates out of College Park, Maryland.
Core Attributes & Engineering
Playability Science: Designed entirely around minimizing energy loss and maximizing cue ball contact time.
Forward Balance: Intentionally weighted and balanced forward to give a heavy, commanding hit.
Signature Joints: Typically engineered with a surgical steel 5/16-14 precision piloted joint for a compressed fit.
Exotic Woodwork: Crafted out of high-grade African Blackwood, figured Birdseye Maple, and rich Cocobolo.
Intricate Inlays: Features high-end configurations of pure gold, fine silver, mother of pearl, and ivory.
This is an ebony Southwest cue that we just finished up here at Proficient Billiards.
South-West Cues are legendary, highly coveted custom pool sticks originally founded by Jerry Franklin in 1982. Known for their distinct points, signature pin, exceptional balance, and unique “stiff” hitting characteristics, they are widely considered both premium player cues and high-value collector items. Because of extreme demand, ordering a brand new cue directly from South-West has an estimated waiting list stretching roughly 10 to 18 years, pushing the secondary market value well into thousands of dollars.
Core Key Specifications
The Pin: Signature 3/8 x 11 threaded pin, which heavily influences the solid feel and feedback.
Standard Package: Each genuine custom cue traditionally ships directly from the shop with two matching maple shafts.
Weight Variations: Cues utilizing lighter woods like Birdseye Maple are naturally lighter, while heavy exotics like Cocobolo or Purpleheart lean on the heavier side (often pushing the butt weight past 16 oz).
This Ariel Carmeli cue was just finished up recently at Proficient Billiards.
Ariel Carmeli cues are highly prestigious, world-famous custom pool cues renowned for their exceptional strength, stability, and stunning aesthetics. Handcrafting cues since 1994, Carmeli (formerly based in Southern California and now operating out of Virginia) specializes in utilizing rare, exotic hardwoods like Gabon ebony, amboyna burl, snakewood, and cocobolo. Known for exceptional playability, his signature construction almost always involves coring the forearms to ensure unparalleled hit consistency and structural longevity.
The market for Ariel Carmeli cues splits into two categories: 100% full custom bench-made cues built personally by Carmeli, and the Diamond Signature Series production collaboration manufactured by Viking Cues.
Custom Ariel Carmeli Cues
True custom pieces are handcrafted in highly limited quantities, highly sought after by cue collectors, and built with high-end component nuances.
Design Traits: Typically feature multi-point designs (4-point or 6-point) with sharp, vibrant multi-color veneers (such as blue, purple, or traditional flame styles), intricate hand-cut abalone or imitation ivory diamond inlays, premium textured elephant or pigskin leather wraps, and his signature custom ringwork.
Specifications: Standard custom builds typically ship at 19 to 19.4 ounces with a length of 58 inches. They utilize a signature flat-faced modified 3/8 x 10 joint pin and traditionally include two premium 13mm maple shafts.
This is a limited edition 23/75 Jacoby Predator cue just finished up here at Proficient Billiards.
The Predator Panthera Special Edition series is the premier line of limited-edition pool cues designed and handcrafted in partnership with Jacoby Custom Cues. This long-running collaboration combines Jacoby’s mastery of exotic wood artistry with Predator’s world-renowned low-deflection technology. Because these are highly exclusive collectible runs, they are produced in strictly limited quantities—typically only 100 to 125 units per model—and each cue is individually signed and numbered by the cue maker.
This is a Hurricane cue finished here at Proficient Billiards.
Whitey Spach “Hurricane” Custom Cues
If you are looking for a true custom, collectible cue, you are likely looking for the work of cuemaker Whitey Spach out of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.
Craftsmanship: These are authentic, USA-made custom cues known for excellent playability and solid construction.
Technical Features: Spach traditionally utilized a 5/16-14 flat-faced joint. His cues typically feature standard 58-inch builds weighing between 18 to 21 ounces.
Reputation: Highly regarded in the billiards community, particularly for their high-performing jump/break cues and intricate point work (such as 4-point or 6-point designs).
Purpleheart Tonkin Sneaky Pete cue – A Comprehensive Guide to Performance and Craftsmanship
This is a Tonkin sneaky pete cue that was recently here for finish work.
In addition to their functional benefits, the aesthetics of the Purpleheart Tonkin Sneaky Pete cue make it a standout piece. Many players take pride in their cues, often showcasing them in their homes or at competitions. The beauty of the woods shines through the gleaming finish, making each cue a conversation starter among fellow billiards enthusiasts.
The craftsmanship of a Purpleheart Tonkin Sneaky Pete cue goes beyond mere aesthetics; it embodies a rich tradition and a dedication to the art of cue making. Each cue is meticulously crafted to ensure top-notch performance, benefiting players of all skill levels. In addition to providing a great playing experience, these cues are often considered works of art, making them a valuable addition to any billiard enthusiast’s collection.
This particular model, the Purpleheart Tonkin Sneaky Pete cue, is noted for its unique blend of functionality and elegance. The design not only caters to aesthetic preferences with its striking visuals but also ensures that each shot is delivered with precision and control. The cues often come with a personalized touch, allowing players to choose from various options that fit their playing style and personality.
Understanding the key characteristics and construction methods of the Purpleheart Tonkin Sneaky Pete cue is essential for any player looking to invest in a high-quality cue. Each element is designed with performance and durability in mind, ensuring that the cue can handle the rigors of regular play while maintaining its beauty and functionality.
Pete Tonkin Custom Cues are highly prestigious, high-end custom pool cues renowned for their exceptional hit, balance, and intricate wood and inlay craftsmanship. Made by award-winning cuethier Pete Tonkin, these cues are highly collectible and typically fall within a premium price range from $4,199 to $6,895+ depending on the complexity of the exotic woods and materials used.
The tall, sharp points are not merely for show; they play a critical role in aiming and shot accuracy. Players often find that these points help in visual alignment during their shots, allowing for a more focused and confident stroke.
Premium materials are selected not just for their looks but also for their performance characteristics. For instance, cocobolo and ebony offer different weight distributions and firmness, which can significantly affect how a cue feels during play. Players often report that specific woods resonate differently upon impact, contributing to the overall experience.
Cored forearms using Purpleheart wood not only enhance the durability of the cue but also contribute to the feedback players receive during shots. The solid, crisp hit that is characteristic of these cues allows players to better gauge their strokes, leading to improved accuracy and consistency.
The modified 3/8-10 pin joint ensures that the cue is securely fastened while allowing for quick assembly and disassembly. This feature is particularly beneficial for players who transport their cues frequently, as it reduces wear and tear on the joint over time.
Key Characteristics & Construction
Tall, Sharp Points: A hallmark of Tonkin’s design is the use of distinct, razor-sharp points with colorful, vibrant veneers.
Premium Materials: Cues commonly feature highly figured burls, exotic ebony, cocobolo, and zircote wood paired with intricate inlays of silver, abalone, or Elforyn.
Cored Forearms: Cues are frequently cored with dense woods like Purpleheart to promote a solid, crisp hit and highly tactile feel.
Modified 3/8-10 Pin: Most modern builds utilize a modified 3/8 x 10 flat-faced joint configuration.
Schon R1 cue that was just here for refinishing work at Proficient Billiards.
Schön Cues is a highly prestigious, small-batch American custom pool cue manufacturer. Founded in 1981 by Terry Romine Sr. and legendary cue maker Bob Runde in Wisconsin, the brand is globally renowned for producing heirloom-quality cues that emphasize a signature “stiff hit”. The word “Schön” is German for “beautiful,” which directly reflects their intricate hand-cut inlay work and use of rare, hand-selected exotic hardwoods.
Purpleheart and Ebony nosed Southwest cue – 07-361
The company Southwest cues started making cues in 1982. Jerry Franklin began with cue repair as most do in the early 80’s. DPK Kersenbrock helped form Southwest cues. Early examples are unmarked and can be authenticated by Southwest cues. Cues after 93 are easy to identify and have a brass pin with a cactus, date, and number. Jerry passed away at the age of 42. His wife Laurie Franklin and family continue to run the business. Southwest cues are highly sought after and there is a lengthy waiting period for one. Pool Hall Junkies the movie also helped to catapult Southwest cues. Pictured are a few examples of cue refinishing and cue repair that we have performed here at Proficient Billiards.
This purpleheart and ebony nosed Southwest cue – 07-361 is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
Pete Ohmen started Omen cues in 1979 in Florida. Most Omen cues that we see through here are identifiable by the pin that has Omen inscribed on it.
This Omen cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Turnaround time for cue refinishing is about 2 weeks. Call or text 717.4788.CUE for your cue repair needs.
Predator cues began distributing their line in 1994 in Jacksonville Florida. Call or text 717.4788.CUE for your cue repair needs.
This Predator cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
Tim Scruggs started making Tim Scruggs custom cues in 1978 in Baltimore Maryland. This Tim Scruggs cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload. #timscruggscue
This 2007 Chris Quade cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
This JD Custom cue – 2017 Gold Cross cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
The company Southwest cues started making cues in 1982. Jerry Franklin began with cue repair as most do in the early 80’s. DPK Kersenbrock helped form Southwest cues. Early examples are unmarked and can be authenticated by Southwest cues. Cues after 93 are easy to identify and have a brass pin with a cactus, date, and number. Jerry passed away at the age of 42. His wife Laurie Franklin and family continue to run the business. Southwest cues are highly sought after and there is a lengthy waiting period for one. Pool Hall Junkies the movie also helped to catapult Southwest cues. Pictured are a few examples of cue refinishing and cue repair that we have performed here at Proficient Billiards.
This 01-501 Ebony and Birdseye Southwest cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
Mezz cues are imported from Japan. Mezz cues can be identified by a The Mezz decal. This Mezz cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2-3 weeks depending on workload.
The company Southwest cues started making cues in 1982. Jerry Franklin began with cue repair as most do in the early 80’s. DPK Kersenbrock helped form Southwest cues. Early examples are unmarked and can be authenticated by Southwest cues. Cues after 93 are easy to identify and have a brass pin with a cactus, date, and number. Jerry passed away at the age of 42. His wife Laurie Franklin and family continue to run the business. Southwest cues are highly sought after and there is a lengthy waiting period for one. Pool Hall Junkies the movie also helped to catapult Southwest cues. Pictured are a few examples of cue refinishing and cue repair that we have performed here at Proficient Billiards.
This Southwest cue 08-381 is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
Bob Meucci is a cue maker who began making pool cues in 1975 out of Mississippi. Meucci cues are some of the most recognized pool cues on the planet. early models had Meucci Originals on the butt sleeve. Later models had the Meucci script writing on the butt cap. Bob now has a line of custom cues that has a BMC logo also.
This Meucci cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
Viking began making pool cues in 1965 in Madison Wisconsin. This Viking cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
Bob Meucci is a cue maker who began making pool cues in 1975 out of Mississippi. Meucci cues are some of the most recognized pool cues on the planet. early models had Meucci Originals on the butt sleeve. Later models had the Meucci script writing on the butt cap. Bob now has a line of custom cues that has a BMC logo also.
This Meucci cue is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
Paul Huebler began making pool cues in the early seventies out of Missouri. I believe in the early days Bob Meucci and Paul Hubler worked together to start their companies.
This Huebler cue Custom Shop is an example of cue repair and cue refinishing work (not for sale) that has been done here at Proficient Billiards. Cue refinishing usually takes about 2 weeks depending on workload.
