The Cuemakers Handbook Volume 1
When I first began exploring the materials behind fine cue construction, I was astonished by how few reliable, comprehensive resources existed for cue-specific wood characteristics. Many guides on hardwoods focus on cabinetry, flooring, or general woodworking—but the demands of cue making are unique: precise balance, feedback, machinability, and beauty, all compressed into a single instrument of competition and art.
This book was born out of that gap.
As a cue maker, enthusiast, and researcher, I wanted to produce a reference that goes beyond superficial grain descriptions and taps into what professionals really need:
- How does the wood behave on a lathe?
- What’s the Janka rating, and what does it mean in play?
- Can I machine this safely at 0.010" diameter on a micro CNC?
- Is this wood CITES restricted? Will it warp? Crack?
These are the questions that cue makers ask every day—whether they’re crafting high-end customs or learning the art of restoration. This book contains answers to those questions, species by species, grounded in both technical documentation and practical experience.
We’ve included detailed sections for each of the top cue-making woods:
- Scientific and common names
- Visual and physical characteristics
- Workability and machinability
- Precise RPM, IPM, and depth-per-pass recommendations for micro endmills
- Sustainability information and sourcing notes
- Crisp, cue-specific performance commentary
I hope this book serves as a trusted workbench companion—whether you’re exploring a new exotic for a one-off build or ensuring the consistency of your production runs. This is Volume 1. If it serves the community well, future editions may expand beyond 100 species, include user testing, or grow into a full cue design ecosystem. Thank you for being part of a community that values tradition, precision, and craftsmanship.
- Christopher M. Walker Billiards Innovation, LLC
Reviews
This digital handbook is incredibly thorough—just like Chris’s customer service. From the very first call, he’s been patient, helpful, and genuinely cares about making sure I’m set up for success. The level of detail in this guide mirrors the lengths Chris goes to ensure I fully understand every concept. Highly recommend both the book and the support behind it!
Excellent in depth view of cue building. I like the way he talks about the shaft turndown but separates the Ferrell and tip separately because there are more steps of that part of the cue and he talks more in depth of both and leaves nothing to ponder or shoot from the hip ,so to speak.... for me it is the Bible of cue building, and I'm sure it will be for you too!!! Ive been an apprentice for nieman cues for the last few months and he recommended this book, so glad I bought it and the cds!!!