When it comes to choosing a quality pool cue, McDermott and Viking are two of the most trusted American-made brands on the market. Both have long histories, strong reputations, and lifelong warranties — but they differ in style, feel, performance, and player appeal. In this guide, we break down the key differences to help you decide which cue is right for you.
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Quick Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | McDermott | Viking |
| Country of Origin | 🇺🇸 USA | 🇺🇸 USA |
| Craftsmanship | Intricate woodwork & detailing | Traditional quality with performance tech |
| Warranty | Lifetime (warpage & defects) | Lifetime (warpage & defects) |
| Best For | Players who love feel & classic design | Players who value balance & consistency |
| Price Range | $100–$5,000+ | $100–$2,000+ |
What Makes McDermott Cues Special
McDermott is a legendary American cue maker known for craftsmanship, balance, and performance. Their cues combine premium materials with precision engineering — making them a go-to for players from intermediate to advanced.
Key Strengths
- Handcrafted in the USA — traditional quality in every cue.
- Advanced shaft tech like G-Core and i-Series for consistency and control.
- Elegant designs with exotic hardwoods and detailed inlays.
- Lifetime warranty covering warpage and defects.
Popular McDermott Cues
Here are great choices depending on your skill and budget:
Featured McDermott Pool Cues:
McDermott GS06 Pool Cue – Excellent all-around cue with smooth feel and balance.
McDermott Star S51 Pool Cue – Premium option with standout performance and aesthetics.
Why Players Love McDermott
Players often praise McDermott for their smooth stroke and balanced feel, making them ideal for players who rely on precision and finesse. The shaft design tends to have a slightly softer flex compared to some competitors, which many players find easier to control for advanced shots.
What Sets Viking Cues Apart
Viking Cues has also built a solid name with quality wood and reliable performance. Viking blends traditional American craftsmanship with modern innovations like the ViKORE® shaft for a consistent hit and dependable feel.
Key Strengths
- 100% Made in the USA with meticulous build standards.
- Performance-oriented shafts and tips with great feedback.
- Lifetime warranty against warpage and defects.
- Broad range of cues — from entry-level to high-end models.
Popular Viking Pool Cues
Featured Viking Pool Cues:
Viking Valhalla 2 Piece Pool Cue Stick – Affordable everyday play cue with balanced performance.
Viking Valhalla 500, 600 & 700 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue Stick (Alternate) – Highly rated value choice for beginners/intermediates.
Why Players Choose Viking
Viking cues often feel slightly stiffer and more forward-balanced, which can help players who prefer a sturdier hit or are still mastering their stroke timing.
McDermott vs Viking: Side-by-Side Breakdown
Design & Aesthetics
| McDermott Pool Cues | Viking Pool Cues |
|---|---|
| Rich detailing, exotic wood inlays, artistic flair. | Clean cuts with performance-focused aesthetics and options ranging from classic to bold. |
Winner: If you want collectible style + traditional craftsmanship, McDermott takes the edge.
If you prefer performance-focused design, Viking holds strong.
Feel, Balance & Playability
| McDermott Pool Cues | Viking Pool Cues |
|---|---|
| Balanced feel with smooth play — ideal for controlled shots and spin. | Slightly more forward balance and stiffness — excellent for confident hits and break cues. |
Winner: Depends on preference — McDermott for finesse, Viking for firmness.
Value & Range
| McDermott Pool Cues | Viking Pool Cues |
|---|---|
| Offers everything from beginner cues to high-end collector pieces ($100–$5,000+). | Covers entry-level to high-performance cues ($100–$2,000+). |
Winner: Tie, depending on how far you want to go with your cue investment.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Pick?
Go with McDermott if:
✔ You love American craftsmanship and artistry
✔ You want a cue with smooth feel and great balance
✔ You’re serious about improving your precision game
Go with Viking if:
✔ You want reliable performance and consistent hits
✔ You like a slightly firmer, forward-balanced feel
✔ You want value from budget to advanced levels
Quick Buying Tips
• Try before you buy when possible — feel and balance are personal.
• Budget and beginner pool players can start with Valhalla or McDermott’s mid lines.
• Advanced players might prefer McDermott’s premium selections or Viking’s carbon shafts.
Wrap-Up
Both McDermott and Viking are outstanding pool cue brands with strong heritage and performance. Your best choice comes down to play style and feel preference, not reputation — both brands deliver quality American-made cues with lifetime warranties.
FAQ: McDermott vs Viking Pool Cues
The main difference is feel and balance. McDermott pool cues offer a smoother, more flexible hit with balanced weight, while Viking pool cues feel slightly stiffer with a more forward balance. Both are American-made and designed for long-term performance.
McDermott cues are better for players who prefer smooth stroke feedback and refined craftsmanship. Viking cues are better for players who want a firmer hit and consistent performance. Neither brand is universally better—the best choice depends on personal playing style.
Viking cues are often better for beginners due to their lower entry price and durability, especially the Valhalla series. McDermott beginner cues provide excellent balance and feel but usually cost more. Both brands are reliable for new players.
Yes, both McDermott and Viking pool cues are made in the United States. Each brand is known for American craftsmanship and offers a lifetime warranty against defects and warping.
McDermott offers G-Core and i-Series low-deflection shafts for smooth feel and control. Viking offers ViKORE® and carbon fiber shafts designed for consistency and durability. Neither is objectively better—the difference comes down to player preference.
McDermott and Viking both provide lifetime warranties against warping. Warping is extremely rare when cues are properly stored and maintained. Both brands are considered among the most reliable in the billiards industry.
McDermott cues are often preferred for spin and cue ball control due to their softer hit and shaft responsiveness. Viking cues can also produce excellent spin, especially with upgraded shafts and tips.
Yes, Viking cues generally feel stiffer and slightly front-weighted, while McDermott cues feel smoother and more evenly balanced. This difference affects feedback and shot timing but is mostly noticeable to intermediate and advanced players.
Professional players use both McDermott and Viking cues. Most pros choose based on shaft feel, balance, and personal comfort rather than brand name. Both brands are trusted at competitive and league levels.
McDermott pool cues are worth the price for players who value premium craftsmanship, smooth playability, and long-term durability. Their higher-end models also appeal to collectors while maintaining strong on-table performance.
Yes, both McDermott and Viking cues support shaft upgrades, including carbon fiber and low-deflection shafts. This allows players to improve performance without replacing the entire cue.
McDermott is ideal for players focused on finesse, touch, and cue ball control. Viking is ideal for players who prefer consistency, firmness, and durability. Both brands support long-term skill development.