How Long is a Pool Cue?

How Long is a Pool Cue? Pool cues range from 57 to 59 inches (145 to 150 cm) in length. This standard pool cue size works for a comfortable reach and effective play. However, there are variations.

For example, shorter cues ranging from 36 to 52 inches (91 to 132 cm) are often used for children, in tight playing spaces, or for specialized shots.

On the other hand, some players prefer cues slightly longer than the standard, up to 61 inches (155 cm), for better reach or personal comfort.

So how does it all come together? What makes a pool cue length suitable for one player but not for the other? This guide will answer it all. For more about cues, cases, and supplies, visit us at Seybert's.

Factors Affecting the Length of Pool Cues

Here's why a standard pool cue stick can have different lengths:

1. Player Height

Taller players may find standard cues too short, making it hard to make precise shots.

They might prefer longer cues, which allow for a more comfortable stance and better control. Shorter players might find standard cues a bit unwieldy and could benefit from a shorter cue for easier handling and accuracy.

2. Player Arm Length

Players with longer arms may find standard cues too short, limiting their reach and making shots less comfortable. A longer cue can help these players maintain better control and achieve a more natural stroke.

Conversely, players with shorter arms might struggle with standard cues, finding them difficult to maneuver. Shorter cues can provide better balance and control for these players.

3. Playing Style and Personal Preference

The way a player likes to shoot their shots also has a big impact on the ideal cue length. Some players have a more aggressive style, preferring to stand further back and take big, forceful shots.

These players might lean towards longer cues because they give a bit more weight and reach, adding power to their shots.

On the other hand, players who focus on precision and finesse might favor shorter cues. The reduced length can help with the delicate touch needed for trick shots or tight corner play.

It often comes down to what feels right in your hands. A cue should feel like an extension of your body, working with you to make those critical shots.

4. Table Size

The size of the pool table you're playing on can influence the length of cue that's best for you. Standard full-size pool tables in bars and pool halls are usually 9 feet long, and a regular 57 to 59-inch cue works great for these. But not all tables are this big.

In homes or places where space is limited, smaller tables are common. These might only be 7 or 8 feet long.

When you're playing on a smaller table, you don't need as much reach, and maneuvering a full-length cue in a tight space can be awkward. This is where having a shorter cue stick can make the game easier and more enjoyable.

It's especially important when the table is close to walls or furniture. With a shorter cue, you won't have to worry about hitting something when you pull back for a shot. It lets you play a full game without having to switch to a shorter stick for just one or two tricky shots.

5. Space Constraints in the Playing Area

Unlike table size, the playing area's space constraints are not about the playing surface but the room around the pool table. A cramped space can make it challenging to use a standard-length cue without hitting nearby objects.

In these environments, short cues are not just a convenience but a necessity, ensuring players can still take shots from all angles of the table without collision.

Environments with space constraints can affect the choice of cue even more than the table size itself. In such settings, players might consider cues even shorter than those used for small tables, such as those that are 48 inches or even 36 inches in length.

These cues can greatly enhance the playability of a pool table in a tight area, ensuring the game is enjoyable and uninterrupted by the surrounding limitations.

6. Specialized Shots or Techniques

Specialized shots like jump shots, masse shots, and trick shots might require cues that are shorter or longer than the standard length. This gives you more control over the cue tip to perform them optimally.

For instance, jump cues are typically shorter, with some measuring as little as 40 inches in length, to give the player better control and to facilitate the vertical lift needed to hop the cue ball over an obstructing ball.

Masse cues, used for shots involving extreme spins, often have a different weight distribution and could be a bit longer to provide the necessary leverage.

Players who have perfected certain shots might look for cues that complement their skills. This could mean a longer cue for a player who excels at long, powerful break shots or a shorter, more agile cue for someone who prides themselves on close-quarters finesse.

7. Type of Cue

There are mainly two types of pool cues: one-piece and two-piece. 

One-piece cues are commonly found in casual playing environments such as bars and pool halls. They are made from a single piece of wood, making them durable and easy to maintain.

The standard length for a one-piece cue is around 57 inches. However, custom cue makers can provide shorter variations are available, typically ranging from 36 to 58 inches, to accommodate different player heights and space constraints.

Two-piece cues, favored by many serious players and professionals, consist of two separate pieces that are screwed together. The standard length for a two-piece cue is usually 58 inches, but they can also be found in lengths up to 61 inches to suit players who prefer a longer stick.

Two-piece cues offer the convenience of easy transport and storage, as they can be broken down into two smaller pieces. They also allow for customization, with some players opting for extensions that can be added to the butt of the cue to adjust the length for individual preference or specific shots.

How to Select the Ideal Pool Cue Length

You can select the most suitable cue by following these tips:

• Measure your arm length: Stand upright and hold the cue as you would when shooting. The butt of the cue should comfortably reach your hip bone.
• Consider your height: Taller players generally prefer long cues, while shorter players may opt for shorter ones.
• Test different lengths: Try cues of various lengths to see which feels most comfortable and natural.
• Evaluate your playing style: If you prefer a pendulum-like stroke, a longer cue might suit you better. For more wrist action, a shorter cue could be preferable.
• Check regulations: If you play competitively, ensure the length adheres to official rules (typically between 57-58 inches for pool).
• Account for break cues: You might prefer a longer, heavier cue for breaking.
• Consider the venue: If you frequently play in crowded areas, a slightly shorter cue might be more practical.

For more about how to buy your next cue, check out our pool cue buying guide. 

Shop for the Perfect Cue at Seybert’s Today

Selecting the ideal pool cue length is a balance of personal ergonomics and practical considerations. Given the varying factors like player size, style, and the specifics of the playing environment, it's evident that one size does not fit all in the world of pool.

For those in pursuit of the perfect pool cue, Seybert's Billiard Supply offers an extensive range of cues, shafts, and accessories to suit players at every level.

Whether you're selecting your first cue or customizing a two-piece for tournament play, we provide expert advice and a comprehensive selection to help you make an informed choice.