23/09/2026
🎱 **Cue Craft Baron Restoration — The Repair Process**
Following on from my previous post, the restoration of this much-loved 1990s Cue Craft Baron is now complete.
The first job was to carefully remove the original worn quick-release joint without causing unnecessary damage to the surrounding timber.
Once the old joint had been removed, I discovered that the bore left by the original female section was considerably wider than the replacement vacuum joint. Fitting the new joint directly into such an oversized opening would not have provided the strength or accuracy required.
To correct this properly, I made a snug-fitting timber dowel for the butt section. This was carefully fitted and glued into place, effectively rebuilding the centre of the cue and providing a solid foundation for the new joint.
While the adhesive was curing, I turned my attention to the shaft. The ash grain was extremely deep and open—almost cavernous in places—so it required a thorough grain fill. This was applied, allowed to dry and then sealed before the refinishing work continued.
The following day, once everything had fully set, the new timber centre was accurately bored to accept the modern brass vacuum joint. The new joint was then carefully fitted, glued and aligned so that both sections of the cue met correctly.
With the structural repair completed, the shaft was fully refinished on the lathe. It was progressively worked through the different grades before being polished down to 3000 grit and properly sealed, leaving the shaft protected and silky smooth in the hand.
The finished cue has come up extremely well. The new joint is secure and operates smoothly, the shaft feels completely transformed, and the original badge, veneers and character of this 30-year-old cue have all been preserved.
I’m really pleased with the final result—and hopefully its owner can now enjoy many more years of play from a cue carrying so much sentimental value.
If you have a cue requiring a new joint, full refinish, grain filling or any other repair work, please contact **MR Cue Sports** to discuss what can be done.
**MR Cue Sports**
*Repairing the problem—preserving the history.*
