I remember the feeling vividly. Standing over a crucial 8-ball shot, the game on the line, only to feel that familiar, frustrating wobble in my hands. It was another warped, beaten-down house cue from the local pool hall. The tip was a mushroomed mess, the wrap was non-existent, and the shaft felt like it had been through a war. My opponent, with their own sleek, personal cue, sank their shot with confidence. That was the moment I realized that to take my game to the next level—even just for the satisfaction of a clean, honest game—I needed my own equipment. The problem? The world of pool cues is vast and intimidating, with prices ranging from pocket change to a down payment on a car. The search began for a cue that offered professional-grade straightness and feel without the professional-grade price tag. This quest for performance and value is what ultimately led me to the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120.
- IMPROVE YOUR GAME WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK. Features a 58” maple shaft cue, two piece design for easy transport, industry standard stainless steel 5/16” x 18” threaded joint, and 13mm leather...
- A PREMIUM IMPORT. Designed by our Viking Cue Artisans, Valhalla cues take full advantage of our production knowledge. We stay involved in the manufacturing process to ensure each cue is top quality.
- STATE-OF-THE-ART UNRIVALED QUALITY. Before a pool cue is shipped, it is assembled, rolled, and closely inspected to make sure it meets our high quality standards.
What to Consider Before Buying a Billiard Cue Stick
A billiard cue stick is more than just a piece of wood; it’s the primary interface between you and the game. It’s a precision instrument that translates your intention, skill, and focus into the physical movement of the balls. A high-quality cue solves the fundamental problems of inconsistency, inaccuracy, and lack of feel that plague players using inferior equipment. The main benefits are profound: improved accuracy from a straight and stable shaft, better cue ball control from a quality tip, and enhanced confidence from a stick that feels balanced and comfortable in your hands. It elevates the game from a casual pastime to a sport of skill and finesse.
The ideal customer for a product like the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 is the serious beginner or intermediate player who has outgrown house cues and is ready to invest in their improvement. This player values performance over flashy aesthetics and wants a reliable, well-made tool that will grow with their skills. It’s for the league player on a budget or the home table owner who wants quality equipment for themselves and their guests. Conversely, this cue might not be the best fit for the absolute professional who requires a low-deflection carbon fiber shaft or a custom-made cue tailored to their exact specifications. It may also be overkill for the extremely casual player who only plays once a year and is content with using whatever is available.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Cue Weight & Balance: Most cues range from 18 to 21 ounces. Lighter cues (18-19oz) are often preferred for their finesse and touch, while heavier cues (20-21oz) can provide a more powerful, solid stroke. The VA120’s 19oz weight is a fantastic middle-ground, offering a great combination of power and control suitable for most players. Balance point is also key; a well-balanced cue feels natural and requires less effort to stroke smoothly.
- Tip Size & Type: The tip is where the magic happens. A standard 13mm tip, like the one on this Valhalla, provides a large contact area, which is forgiving for beginners and great for powerful shots. Softer tips grip the cue ball better for applying spin (english), while harder tips are more durable and provide more feedback. The proprietary leather tip on the VA120 is a solid starting point, but can be scuffed, shaped, or eventually replaced to suit your preference.
- Materials & Durability: The quality of the wood is paramount. The Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 uses North American Hard Rock Maple, the industry standard for its strength, density, and straightness. The stainless steel joint (5/16” x 18”) provides a secure connection between the butt and shaft, ensuring a solid, one-piece feel during play. The Irish Linen wrap offers a comfortable, moisture-absorbing grip that won’t slip during a tense match.
- Construction & Portability: A two-piece cue is essential for any player who travels to leagues, tournaments, or different pool halls. It allows for easy and safe transport in a cue case. The precision of the joint is critical to ensure the cue remains perfectly straight when assembled, a quality control measure Viking is known for, even on their Valhalla line.
Understanding these elements is the first step toward making an informed purchase that will genuinely improve your game. Now, let’s see how the Valhalla VA120 performs in the real world.
While the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Pool Cue Stick Set Of 4：Each billiard cue length is 58 inch and finished off with a 13mm Tip. This combination includes 18 19 20 21 ounce all commonly used weights to meet the needs of different...
- MATERIALS: Selected top-tier Canadian Grade 6A Maple, known for its unparalleled strength and durability, provides solid support for every shot you take
- Size Options for All – Choose 42", 48", or full-size 58" cues to match teen or adult players. A great fit for family game rooms, bar play, or practice with friends.
First Impressions: Unboxing the Understated Performer
The Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 arrived securely packaged, a simple but crucial detail that many manufacturers overlook. We found it in a sturdy cardboard tube, which was then placed inside a padded box, ensuring it reached us in pristine condition. Pulling the two pieces out, the first thing we noticed was the finish. The Mahogany stain is rich and deep, exuding a classic, no-nonsense elegance. Several users have noted that online photos can make it appear more orange, but in person, it’s a handsome, traditional wood tone. The finish is flawlessly applied, creating a “buttery smooth” surface that glides effortlessly through the bridge hand—a significant upgrade from the sticky, grimy feel of old house cues.
Screwing the two halves together, the 5/16” x 18” stainless steel joint engaged smoothly and tightened to a firm, reassuring connection. There was no wiggle or play whatsoever. The immediate next step was the classic test: rolling it across our pool table. The cue rolled perfectly, an “arrow straight” cylinder without a hint of a warp or wobble. This is the single most important physical attribute of a cue, and the VA120 passed with flying colors. The Irish Linen wrap felt tight and comfortable in our grip, providing a secure, non-slip feel. Holding the fully assembled 58-inch cue, the 19-ounce weight felt perfectly balanced, substantial enough for a solid hit but light enough for delicate touch shots. It immediately felt like a serious piece of equipment, ready for play. You can see its full feature set and striking finish here.
What We Like
- Exceptional straightness right out of the box
- High-quality North American Hard Rock Maple construction
- Excellent value, offering premium features at a budget-friendly price
- Comfortable and effective Irish Linen wrap for a secure grip
- Interchangeable weight bolt system for customization
Potential Drawbacks
- Proprietary leather tip may require initial shaping or scuffing
- Color in person is a deeper mahogany than some online photos suggest
A Deep Dive into the Viking Valhalla VA120’s On-Table Performance
A cue can look and feel great, but the only thing that truly matters is how it performs when chalk meets leather. We spent countless hours and played dozens of racks with the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120, putting it through its paces with drills, break shots, and competitive matches. This is where the cue transitions from a good value to an exceptional one.
Build Quality & Materials: The Foundation of a Great Shot
The core of the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 is its North American Hard Rock Maple construction. This isn’t just a marketing term; it’s a specific type of wood prized for its density and resistance to warping. When you stroke this cue, you feel that solid foundation. There’s no hollowness, no distracting vibration—just a clean, crisp transfer of energy from your arm to the cue ball. We found this to be consistent with user feedback, where players repeatedly praise the cue as “well made” and “very sturdy.” The stainless steel joint is another critical component. A poor joint can make a two-piece cue feel disconnected and weak. Viking’s implementation here is flawless. The connection is so seamless that, once assembled, it feels and sounds like a single piece of wood, giving you the confidence to put power into your break or finesse into a soft safety shot.
One important point of clarification, echoed by knowledgeable users, is the branding. While Viking is a renowned American cue maker, the Valhalla line is designed by Viking artisans but produced in China to maintain its accessible price point. This is not a “Viking cue” but a “Valhalla by Viking.” However, any concerns about overseas manufacturing are quickly dispelled by the obvious quality control. The cue’s straightness, flawless finish, and solid construction are a testament to Viking’s oversight. They’ve clearly put everything they’ve learned into producing a cue at this price point that they can stand behind, and that players can use with absolute confidence. This commitment to quality is a feature that truly sets it apart.
Performance on the Table: Balance, Feel, and Shot Control
This is where the VA120 truly shines. The 19oz weight, combined with its excellent balance point, makes the cue feel like a natural extension of your arm. The stroke is incredibly smooth, thanks to the high-gloss finish on the shaft. Many players, ourselves included, found it to be a massive improvement over other entry-level cues which can often feel tacky or require constant hand chalking. The Irish Linen wrap provides the perfect amount of grip without being sticky, absorbing sweat and allowing for a relaxed, controlled back hand.
When striking the cue ball, the feedback is immediate and satisfying. The 13mm proprietary leather tip holds chalk well and provides a solid hit. While we did find, as one user noted, that the tip was a bit hard and compressed upon arrival, this is common for new cues. A few minutes with a scuffer and shaper brought it to life, allowing it to grip the cue ball effectively for applying english. The larger 13mm diameter is very forgiving, reducing miscues for players still developing a pinpoint-accurate stroke. We were particularly impressed by the cue’s low deflection for its class. While it’s not a high-tech carbon fiber shaft, the solid maple construction keeps unwanted cue ball squirt to a minimum, making it easier to aim and execute shots with spin. For under $150, its on-table performance punches well above its weight class.
Customization and Long-Term Value
Perhaps one of the most underrated features of the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 is its inclusion of Viking’s standard interchangeable weight bolt system. This is a professional feature rarely seen on cues at this price. Located under the rubber butt cap, the system allows you to add or remove weight bolts (sold separately) to change the cue’s overall weight and balance point. This is a game-changer for long-term value. As a player, your preferences might change over time. You might start with the stock 19oz weight but later decide you prefer a 20oz cue for breaking or a lighter 18oz for finesse play. With the VA120, you don’t need to buy a whole new cue; you can simply adjust the weight to match your evolving style. This adaptability means the cue isn’t just for beginners; it’s a platform that can grow with an intermediate player for years, making the initial investment even more worthwhile.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our positive experience with the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 is overwhelmingly mirrored in the broader community of players who have purchased it. The most consistent praise, mentioned in nearly every positive account, is the cue’s perfect straightness. Users describe it as “arrow straight” and “perfectly straight” right out of the box, confirming that our test model was not an anomaly. The value proposition is another major theme, with one player summing it up perfectly: “For $120, what’s not to love?” Many are impressed that a cue at this price can deliver such a “buttery smooth, solid, and balanced” feel, rivaling sticks that cost significantly more.
However, the feedback isn’t without its minor critiques, which lend authenticity to the overall picture. A recurring point is that the proprietary tip often arrives very hard and requires immediate maintenance with a shaper or scuffer to perform optimally. Another frequently mentioned item is the color difference, with several users confirming our finding that the real-life mahogany is darker and richer than the slightly orange tint seen in some online product photos. One user also noted the butt is slightly longer than some other cues, which made for a tight fit in their existing case, especially with joint protectors on. These are minor issues in the grand scheme, but they are important considerations for potential buyers. You can read more user experiences and check current pricing before making a decision.
Comparing the Viking Valhalla VA120 to Its Top 3 Alternatives
While the Viking Valhalla VA120 is a standout performer, it’s important to see how it fits within the larger market. Here’s a look at how it compares to three other popular options.
1. AKLOT Set of 4 Pool Cues 58″
- Pool Cue Stick Set Of 4：Each billiard cue length is 58 inch and finished off with a 13mm Tip. This combination includes 18 19 20 21 ounce all commonly used weights to meet the needs of different...
- Canadian Maple Wood：Firm and durable, we have chosen the best quality for the pool stick and the pool cue tips durability. Each pool cue case contains 4 unique pool cues sticks
- Upscale Look：carbon fiber design and clear bright pattern makes the cue stick more attractive. Stainless steel joint M/18,with Irish linen wrap
The AKLOT offering is less a direct competitor and more a different solution for a specific need. Instead of one high-quality personal cue, this is a set of four cues in varying weights (18, 19, 20, 21 oz). This is an ideal choice for someone outfitting a home game room or a small bar. It ensures that family and friends have decent, straight cues to play with, which is a massive upgrade over cheap, mismatched sets. While the individual quality of a single AKLOT cue won’t match the refined feel, balance, and premium components of the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120, the value of getting four playable cues for a similar price is undeniable for the right buyer.
2. CUESOUL Rockin Series Pool Cue Stick
- Hand Selected North Canadian Hard Maple Wood Material Butt and Shafts
- Stainless steel joint M/18
- Kit also includes Joint Protectors,1 piece billiard towel,1 blue carrying cue bag.
The CUESOUL Rockin Series is aimed at players who want their cue to make a visual statement. With more intricate designs, vibrant colors, and decal overlays, it’s for the player who values aesthetics as much as performance. It competes in a similar price bracket and also uses maple wood, but the focus is different. The Valhalla prioritizes a classic, understated design philosophy, putting all its value into the feel, the quality of the wood, and the professional weight system. If you prefer a cue that’s more visually expressive and flashy, the CUESOUL Rockin Series is a strong contender. If your priority is pure, unadorned performance and timeless design, the Valhalla remains the superior choice.
3. CUESOUL SOOCOO Series 58″ 19oz Pool Cue
- Special Selected Canadian Maple
- 11.5mm Cue Tip,7 Layered Leather Tip
- Stainless Steel,Quick-Release CUESOUL 'ROCKET' PIN
The CUESOUL SOOCOO Series is perhaps the most direct competitor to the Valhalla VA120. It’s a single, value-oriented cue made from maple, often featuring a simple design and aimed at beginners and intermediate players. It offers a solid playing experience for its price. However, the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 distinguishes itself with the backing of the Viking brand name and its associated quality control standards. More importantly, the inclusion of the interchangeable weight bolt system gives the Valhalla a significant edge in long-term usability and customization that the SOOCOO series typically lacks. For a small difference in price, the Valhalla offers a clearer path for player growth.
Final Verdict: Is the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 Worth It?
After extensive testing, analysis, and comparison, our conclusion is resounding: the Viking Valhalla 100 Series 2 Piece Pool Cue VA120 is one of the best values in the world of billiards. It masterfully bridges the gap between cheap, unreliable entry-level sticks and expensive, high-performance cues. For a remarkably accessible price, you get a cue that is guaranteed straight, built from high-quality North American Maple, and feels solid and balanced in your hands. It delivers a consistent, reliable performance that will undoubtedly help any aspiring player improve their game.
While the tip may need a little initial attention and the color might be deeper than expected, these are trivial points when measured against the cue’s core strengths. The smooth stroke, comfortable wrap, and the professional-grade interchangeable weight system provide a level of quality and future-proofing that is virtually unmatched in its class. We wholeheartedly recommend it to any beginner or intermediate player looking to buy their first serious cue. It’s a tool that respects the sport and your wallet, and it will serve you faithfully for years to come. If you’re ready to stop blaming the equipment and start playing your best game, we are confident this cue is the right choice. You can check the latest price and secure yours today.
Last update on 2025-11-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API