Thermally Modified Shaft Blanks

Thermally Modified Maple Shaft Blanks
 
Commonly Known as Kielwood or Torrefied Maple
Our thermally modified maple shaft blanks are available in three grades, two color selections, and two stages of completion.
 
The thermal modification process reduces the wood’s moisture absorption, improves dimensional stability, and creates the warm roasted coloration associated with Kielwood shafts. Each shaft blank is individually inspected and graded according to grain straightness, grain deviation, runout, and overall appearance.
 
All shaft blanks are approximately 30 inches long.
 
Available Colors
Semi Dark
The Lighter color features a warm golden-brown appearance with natural honey, tan, and light caramel tones. It maintains a lighter, more traditional maple appearance while still displaying the distinctive color and character created through thermal modification.
 
Dark
The Dark color features a deeper roasted-brown appearance with rich caramel, walnut, and chocolate tones. It provides a darker, more dramatic appearance while preserving the natural grain and character of the maple.
 
Natural variations in color, grain, and tone should be expected from one shaft blank to another.
Available Grades
 
Grade A — Primo
Grade A is the highest available grade and features straight, clean grain with minimal grain runout or deviation. These blanks are selected for cue makers seeking the best overall grain appearance and consistency.
 
Grade B — Standard
Grade B blanks feature good overall grain structure with slight grain deviation or minor runout. They remain suitable for quality cue-shaft construction while providing a more affordable alternative to Grade A.
 
Grade C — Economy
Grade C blanks may display more noticeable grain deviation, runout, mineral markings, color variation, or other cosmetic characteristics. These blanks are intended for cue makers who prioritize function and affordability over premium grain appearance.
 
Available Turning Stages
First-Turn Shaft Blank
Approximately 30 inches long
Approximately .900″ at the joint
Approximately .580″ at the tip
Oversized for additional machining
Allows the cue maker to apply their preferred taper and final dimensions
 
Final-Turn Shaft Blank
Approximately 30 inches long
Approximately .845″ at the joint
13 mm at the tip
Machined with a pro taper
Ready for joint preparation, ferrule installation, tip installation, final sanding, and finishing
 
Final-turn shafts do not include joint threading, a joint collar, ferrule, tip, or final finish.

Important Information:
Wood is a natural material. Grain pattern, color, mineral markings, and other visual characteristics will vary between individual shaft blanks. All listed dimensions are approximate and may vary slightly because of the turning and inspection process. Sharp tooling, controlled cutting depths, and proper machining practices are recommended. Shipping is additional and calculated separately.