Hi Ron, I have a one-piece ash cue from about 50 plus years ago, still straight with a 9ml tip. I also have a two-piece one in a case with an 8ml tip. I have trouble playing stun shots with the 8ml tip, (with a tendency to jump the ball) no such problem with the one-piece, it is perfect !! although just a bit long for the 7/8 table I play on.
My dad owned a billiard saloon with 6 tables for 35 years and when I was about 16 I had to act as the Billiard Marker every Saturday morning while my dad got enough sleep after a very late Friday Night when 20 or 30 customers would play cards all night.
In the Over55 village where I live we have a quality 8leg 10ft by 5ft table and a few of the "inmates" have an exciting afternoon every Friday trying to perfect their game.
Incidentally Ron, I have kept my background to myself up to this stage, as although my game is reasonable, after many inactive years I am sure they might expect more of me.
Yes Ron, good to talk about another of my passions.
Ray