How to Replace a Ferrule on a Pool Cue

how to replace a ferrule on a pool cue

While there are lots of ways to learn how to improve your pool game, you aren’t going to get very far if your ferrule is damaged. Located just below the tip, at the top of the shaft of the cue, the ferrule isn’t something you’re always going to be thinking about. It is a small piece of the larger game, but its value quite simply cannot be overstated.

Your pool cue needs to be in tip-top shape at all time. The ferrule is a big part of how successful your shots are ultimately going to be. If the ferrule on your pool cue has seen some form of damage, or is even broken, your shots are going to suffer dramatically as a result.

To change a pool cue ferrule, you will need to remove the old one with a pair of pliers, or unscrew, and then insert the replacement onto your cue with a lathe or hammer and wood glue to secure it in place. Lastly, you will then want to attach your new cue tip. Let’s take a look at this entire process with a bit more detail.

Replacing the Ferrule on Your Pool Cue

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Before you get started, keep in mind that while replacing a pool cue ferrule, it is possible to cause damage to the pool cue in the process. Such damage can mean having to replace the shaft entirely. This can run you up several hundred dollars, depending on what you own. A professional will probably charge around $30 to replace the ferrule.

While DIY pool cue ferrule replacement is possible, you’re going to want to make sure you have a complete understanding of the steps involved.

Let’s start by gathering up the materials you’re going to need:

  • A lathe
  • A pair of pliers.
  • A ferrule
  • Glue

We recommend purchasing a bulk pack of replacement pool cue ferrules with tips like this. Having a bulk pack is very handy when you need to change your pool cue ferrule in a pinch.

If you notice your pool cue has splitting down along the side, with the tenon located straight through the center of that, then it’s time for a new ferrule. Here are the steps involved:

Purchase your ferrule replacement. Using the suggestions mentioned above, you should be able to find something that matches what you have. You can’t simply purchase just any ferrule.

Pay attention to the thickness of the tenon, and whether or not the ferrule you are replacing is threaded. If the shaft has been sanded repeatedly through the years, it can be tough to find something that will fit perfectly. You may have to consult an expert, or simply use your best judgment.

To remove the ferrule, take your lathe or pair of pliers. Begin squeezing your split along the opposite side. Moving it around should cause it to eventually disengage from the rest of the pool cue. You want to be very, very careful when doing this.

The last thing you want to do is cause any damage to your wooden tenon. Doing so can leave you with costly repairs. You also want to make sure you’re not twisting too hard, as you can remove the tenon entirely.

With the ferrule removed, you can now begin the process of gluing on your oversized replacement. What you’re going to want to do now is begin turning it down with your lathe. (If you don’t have a lathe, there are direct replacements that only require glue and a hammer with bit of elbow grease like the one we mentioned above.)

If you really want to go the extra mile, consider buying a dedicated turning machine for ferrules. Continue turning until it meets your specific diameter requirements.

To reiterate, all of these steps should be taken with the greatest possible measure of caution. Take your time, particularly when you get to the turning stage.

What Is A Ferrule On A Pool Cue?

pool cue ferrule

When it comes to the quality of your performance, amateur players and professionals alike will make it clear to you that the pool cue and ferrule are crucial to the success of your game. In essence, when we talk about the pool cue ferrule, we’re talking about something responsible for shock absorption. You’re taking advantage of what can be described as an additional level of control.

Most ferrules are made from one of the following:

  • Linen Fiber
  • Ivorine III
  • Aegis

Some also opt to have their ferrules made from ivory. This tends to be the most expensive option, given the material, and the fact that it is a customization request. Many consider ivory to provide the very best feel for players. However, many will also argue that Aegis and Ivorine are good alternatives for those who do not want to use ivory for one reason or another.

Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses. You’ll want to compare and contrast to figure out which one will give you the level of control you need to play. If you want your pool cue with an emphasis on strong resonation and feel, you will want ivory, or an acceptable synthetic substitute.

Linen fiber is considered to be a good choice for those who think they will play best with a cue that absorbs most of the impact during play.

How to Clean Your Ferrule

When the ferrule has been properly maintained, it allows you to dictate the pace of the flow of energy from your body to the pool cue itself.

Cleaning the ferrule on a regular basis is a good idea, but you will probably run into a situation at some point in which the ferrule needs to be replaced altogether.

Wiping it down regularly with a damp cloth is a good idea, but you will eventually want to learn how to replace the ferrule as needed.

While you can opt to pay someone to do things like replace the ferrule, or indeed, the entire tip itself, either of these tasks are fairly straightforward. If you have a measure of confidence in your DIY abilities, and you can follow directions, you can replace the pool cue ferrule without too much trouble.

Final Thoughts

Remove the old ferrule with a pair of pliers, and then insert the replacement onto your cue with a hammer and wood glue to secure it in place.

The ferrule on your pool cue is one of the most important pieces of your cue. It’s made to absorb the shock from striking the billiard balls which in turn allows you to have better control over your cue.

Proper maintenance, and cleaning of your pool cue tip and ferrule are pretty much standard if you want your pool cue operating at its peak performance.

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