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