McDermott vs. Meucci: Which Pool Cue is Right for You?

Choosing the right pool cue can significantly impact your game, and with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which brand to trust. Two of the most reputable names in the industry are McDermott and Meucci. While both brands offer high-quality cues, we believe McDermott stands out for several reasons. Let's delve into a detailed comparison to help you decide which pool cue is right for you.

Craftsmanship and Quality

McDermott

• Superior Craftsmanship: McDermott cues are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship. Each cue is meticulously crafted using premium materials, including exotic woods and high-quality inlays.
• Durability: McDermott cues are built to last. The brand's commitment to quality ensures that each cue is beautiful and durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular play.
• UV Finish: Unlike Meucci, McDermott uses a high-end UV finish that maintains its clarity over time.
• Urethane Plastic: McDermott uses high-quality urethane plastic, known for its exceptional impact resistance and durability.
• Lifetime Warranty: McDermott offers a lifetime warranty, showing confidence in their cues' durability and quality.

Meucci

• Inconsistent Craftsmanship: Based on over 30 years of experience, we've observed several quality control issues with Meucci cues. Customers have reported inconsistencies such as holes and fill imperfections in the plastic points and forearm. Veneers often show inconsistent stain saturation, resulting in a drab or sometimes blotchy appearance. Joint sizes vary widely, complicating shaft replacement, and the thinner joints are prone to snapping below the joint. Additionally, recent cues have shown variations in the butt end diameter, making it challenging to attach extensions without a large lip or to fit some cue cases. Despite their attractive designs, Meucci cues often use lacquer finishes that yellow rapidly, impacting their longevity and aesthetic appeal.

• Material Substitution: Meucci has been known to start with exotic woods and later substitute them with less expensive types, affecting performance and durability.

• Linen Wrap Issues: Meucci lacquers over their linen wraps, which frequently develop cracks, especially as the cue ages, leading to aesthetic and performance issues.

• Limited Editions Issue: Meucci has marketed cues as limited editions, claiming only 100 to 250 units would be produced, yet continued selling the models, raising concerns about exclusivity claims. For reference, you can view the original limited edition listing archived from 2015 here.
• Limited Warranty: Meucci’s warranty covers defects affecting performance for one year but does not cover aesthetic issues, which can be a significant concern given their finishes' tendency to crack, yellow, and wear.

Performance

McDermott

• Consistency: McDermott cues are known for consistent performance, offering a balanced blend of power and control.
• Customizability: McDermott cues can be customized to fit individual preferences, including weight, shaft diameter, and wrap type.
• Advanced Low-Deflection Technology: McDermott’s G-Core shaft, standard on many of their cues, features Carbon Tenon Technology—a carbon fiber rod embedded in the first 7 inches of the shaft to provide moderate deflection reduction while preserving the natural feel of maple. McDermott also offers advanced low-deflection options in their iPro and Intimidator shafts, which are engineered with cutting-edge materials and designs to maximize accuracy.

Meucci

• Performance: Meucci cues are marketed as having low-deflection shafts, specifically with their "The Pro" shaft. However, "The Pro" lacks true low-deflection technology and is simply a solid wood shaft with a polyurethane ferrule, without any specialized design to minimize deflection. While Meucci cues can perform well, particularly for players who prefer a traditional feel, the use of lower-quality materials and issues such as linen wrap cracking can impact the overall feel and durability.
• Limited Customization: Custom orders at Meucci are being phased out.
  According to Jeremy Banner, Co-owner of Meucci Cues, LLC:

  "Custom orders in general are going away. There will not be any dealers putting in custom orders in the near future. Dealers will focus on stocking and selling standardized inventory." (August 30, 2023)

  This shift contrasts with McDermott’s approach, where customization options remain widely available, giving players more flexibility in personalizing their cues.

Aesthetics

McDermott

• Visual Appeal: McDermott cues are known for their stunning designs and intricate inlays.
• Variety: McDermott offers a wide range of designs to suit every taste, from classic to modern.

Meucci

• Designs: Meucci cues also feature attractive flashy designs, but the yellowing and cracking lacquer and material substitutions can detract from their long-term appeal.

Value

Meucci Pool Cues

Meucci cues also feature attractive flashy designs, but the yellowing and cracking lacquer and material substitutions can detract from their long-term appeal. Meucci pool cues are known for intricate designs and Pro tapered shafts, but they’ve become more expensive in recent years.

• BMC Casino Series: Prices range from around $1,160 to $1,495.
• 21st Century Series: Typically priced around $1,200.
• Economy and Special Editions: Range from $600 to $1,495.

McDermott Pool Cues

McDermott offers a wide range of designs to suit every taste, from classic to modern. McDermott cues tend to hold their value well, making them a smart choice for future resale or upgrades. McDermott cues are also high-quality and feature extensive customization options.

• G Series: Mid-range cues like the G701 can be found from $500 to $800, offering excellent value for money.
• Higher-End Models: Advanced models can cost upwards of $1,000 but remain competitive with Meucci.

Conclusion

As a dealer with over 30 years of experience and deep insights into both brands, we no longer carry Meucci cues due to the various issues outlined above. While both McDermott and Meucci are esteemed brands in the pool cue industry, McDermott distinguishes itself through superior craftsmanship, durability, and overall value. With a lifetime warranty and a reputation for consistent performance, McDermott cues are an excellent choice for players seeking a reliable and high-performing cue.

If you're ready to enhance your game with a cue that offers both style and substance, explore our selection of McDermott cues today!