Talon cues are built for players who want a properly constructed, consistent cue under $100 without the flashy graphics. Every Talon cue is built from hard rock maple with a 12.75mm leather tip, a 29-inch pro taper shaft, and a piloted 5/16x18 joint, available in weights from 18 to 21 ounces with both wrap and wrapless options depending on the model.
What Every Talon Cue Includes
Talon keeps the spec sheet consistent across the lineup so you know exactly what you're getting regardless of which model you choose:
1
Hard Rock Maple Shaft With Pro Taper
Every Talon cue uses a 29-inch hard rock maple shaft with a pro taper, the same taper profile used across most mid and upper-range cues. Pro taper means the shaft stays at a consistent smaller diameter for 10 to 12 inches before widening toward the joint, which gives you a smoother, more controlled stroke than a conical taper.
2
12.75mm Leather Tip
The 12.75mm leather tip is a practical choice for a cue at this level, large enough to give beginners good margin on contact while still being precise enough for players developing their English.
3
Piloted 5/16x18 Joint
The 5/16x18 joint is one of the most common and reliable joint configurations in the industry. The piloted design ensures the shaft seats consistently in the same position every time you assemble the cue, which contributes directly to shot-to-shot consistency, something cheaper cues often compromise on.
4
Weight Adjustable From 18 to 21 Ounces
Every Talon cue can be ordered at 18, 19, 20, or 21 ounces. Most players start at 19 ounces, but the ability to choose gives you a head start on finding what feels right for your stroke.
A Closer Look: Talon TL09
The Talon TL09 is a good example of what the lineup is about. It's a no-wrap, no-pattern design finished in vibrant olive green, letting the color do the talking without adding unnecessary visual clutter. The piloted 5/16x18 joint and 12.75mm tip carry over from the rest of the lineup, giving you the same consistent performance in a clean, minimal package. If you want a cue that plays well and looks sharp without trying too hard, the TL09 is worth a look.
Frequently Asked Questions About Talon Pool Cues
Common questions answered below. Feel free to contact us if you need anything else.
Are Talon cues good for beginners?+
Yes. Talon cues are one of the stronger entry-level options at their price point. The pro taper shaft, leather tip, and piloted joint are all features that contribute to consistent play, and the weight adjustment options let beginners find the right feel from day one. They're a meaningful step up from a house cue without requiring a significant investment.
What is a pro taper shaft and why does it matter?+
A pro taper shaft maintains a consistent smaller diameter for 10 to 12 inches from the tip before gradually widening toward the joint. This gives you a longer, more predictable feel through the stroke compared to a conical taper, which starts widening almost immediately from the tip. Most quality cues at every price level use a pro taper, and the fact that Talon includes it at under $100 is one of the reasons the brand punches above its price point.
What weight should I order?+
Talon cues are available at 18, 19, 20, and 21 ounces. If you're not sure where to start, 19 ounces is the most common choice for most players. Heavier cues tend to generate more power with less effort on the break, while lighter cues give more control and feedback on finesse shots. Most players develop a preference over time, and having the option to choose from day one is more useful than being locked into a fixed weight.
Do Talon cues come in wrap and no-wrap options?+
Yes. Depending on the model, Talon cues are available with wrap or no-wrap handles. No-wrap cues give you direct contact with the maple for more feedback, while wrap models add texture and grip security. Both perform identically in terms of cue construction, so this comes down to personal preference.
How does Talon compare to other entry-level cues?+
Talon positions itself as a cue that prioritizes construction quality over visual design. Where some brands at this price point put budget into graphics and finish work, Talon puts it into the shaft taper, tip material, and joint precision. If you want a cue that plays consistently and you're not concerned about intricate designs, Talon is a strong choice. If you want more visual variety at a similar price, brands like
Rage or
Action offer more design options.
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