Pool cues come at an extremely wide variety of prices. A cue within the price range of $30 even up to $110 will come at approximately the same level of craftsmanship. These are known as the economy cues. These cue sticks were created overseas with very small exception. Beyond that price range you get into the next tier of cues. Often, these cues are made in the U.S. and have been manufactured with a greater amount of precision craftsmanship. These may include a better warranty as well. Of course, much of this premium is likely perception as well, though, as a rule, you will get a better product for having spent a little more.
As an amateur pocket billiard player, the ideal price point I would aim for a billiard cue stick if I were intent on playing at least once or twice per couple of months would probably be in the $200-300 price point. Anything above that price point most often you will be actually investing in the elaborate inlays. As you step up the steps of that price range ladder you'll find cues with more points in the forearm, and more elaborate inlays that are very difficult to produce, as well as a greater number of exotic woods like cocobolo.
There are multiple styles of billiards as well, and this will probably play a role in your choice of billiard cue stick style. Pocket billiards is the most common form of billiards found in U.S.. Snooker which is played on a pocketed billiard table as well is, in fact, still actually considered a unique table sport from pocket billiards. Snooker cues themselves may be a little customized for the uniqueness of their sport as well.
Interestingly enough, many professional players in the sport of billiards are paid to play with/endorse certain billiard cue stick brands. The most important advice a new player in billiards could be given would be to find a billiard league to game with regularly where more qualified opinions on the performance of various products relevant to the game can be heard.
Many billiard discussion areas also happen to exist on the internet. In these various forums people discuss the rules, tips, billiard product reviews and feedback (where to buy), and gaming events associated with the sport of billiards.
Check out these other helpful pages: Schon Billiard Cues, and pool.
