Predator Revo 12.4mm Shaft Review

Is the Predator Revo 12.4mm cue worth getting?

Ever since the emergence of pool or billiards in the 16th century, a wooden stick has been the primary tool used in the game. There are some notable issues with wood being the material to make these cues. These include issues with durability, precision and transfer of force and direction.

Over the centuries, there have been advances in manufacturing technology and choice of wood which have greatly reduced these issues.

There is, however, a company that opts to change the shaft material itself- Predator. They have infused 20 years of technological innovation and testing into this Predator Revo shaft.

This review will focus on the Predator Revo 12.4mm shaft.

Predator Revo 12.4mm shaft first impression

With a price tag of about $850, I was anticipating a product that had a look and feel of quality. I was not disappointed.

The shaft comes with a custom joint protector with 12.4 etched into it, a Revo soft bag, Revo wipes, and a microfiber cloth. The shaft is of a carbon matte grey/black colour. The shafts are available with Uni-Loc quick release and Uni-Loc radial joints. I opted for the Uni-Loc as it would fit my 5K1 butt.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The carbon fiber composite material provides for a very smooth finish. It gives the impression of durability and strength which is actually backed by a limited lifetime warranty against warpage. The surface is ding resistant and harder than wood.

The shaft is 29” long and comes with a Predator soft victory tip. This is supposed to be the preferred match because of the hardness and rigidity of the shaft. Let’s see how that pans out in play.

Playing with the Predator Revo 12.4mm shaft

The shaft has only an 8% rise over the first 14 inches from the tip. This is felt when running the shaft along my bridge hand. It feels very consistent which should lead to better accuracy.

I used the shaft to break and there was an instant notable difference. Firstly, the shaft has a louder feedback sound when the cue ball is struck. I tried hitting the cue ball with other cues to ensure that I wasn’t mistaken and it is definitely louder.

There is a learning curve to get used to this shaft. It is evidently more rigid than wooden shafts so it takes some getting used to. It provides for more spin and less deflection when the cue ball is hit at an angle. This reduced deflection takes some readjusting but is wonderful as you get the hang of it.

The accuracy of my shots has improved, especially over long range for both high and low speeds.

Predator Revo 12.4mm Downside

This shaft truly is revolutionary. I can only find two draw-backs. Since the shaft has a different feel, once you get used to it, you are forced to stick to that shaft in order to play at your peak. Also, it is recommended to change the tip at an authorized Predator repair center. This will reduce the risk of damaging the carbon material and compromising the trueness of the shaft.

Predator Revo 12.4mm final Impressions

I have seen an improvement in my game since I began using this shaft. After I overcame the initial learning curve, it was all improvements from there. It is worth the price tag, especially if you are serious about improving your game. I give the Predator Revo 12.4mm shaft a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating.