In this article, we’re going to go over one of the most popular carbon fiber shafts in pool – the McDermott Defy. Loaded with revolutionary technology and strength that lasts, the Defy shaft remains one of the best shaft options on the market, and we’re going to help explain why. We’ll discuss the features, product offering, and how to take care of your Defy shaft.
Why Play a Carbon Fiber Shaft?
There are multiple reasons some of the best professional and amateur players in the world choose to play pool with a carbon fiber shaft. Carbon fiber has a low degree of deflection, it’s light, and it won’t warp in response to atmospheric changes. They’re also much harder to scratch or damage due to the strength of the material.
While more expensive, carbon fiber will almost certainly have a longer playing life for anyone who games them. For many newer players, carbon fiber may be easier to get used to because there are less variables that can influence how the shaft performs when compared to wood shafts
When was the Defy shaft invented?
The Defy shaft first hit the market in 2019 and has been improved ever since. Recently, McDermott has added a gray ferrule and joint collar for better sighting and overall aesthetics.
Defy Technology
With Defy carbon fiber, you can expect a shaft that offers superior accuracy and control as well as enhanced SmacWrap technology. Designed for the AeroSpace industry, SmacWrap provides vibration absorption with a softer feel and quieter sound than most carbon fiber cue shafts on the market.
McDermott’s self proclaimed “most advanced carbon fiber shaft ever” comes standard with a navigator soft tip. This premium tip features Japanese pigskin leather that offers a soft, consistent hit in a tip that is extremely resistant to deformity. This tip is softer than most carbon fiber shaft offerings and creates effortless spin when compared to other CF shafts.
Defy Shaft Sizing and Profile
The Defy comes in 3 different shaft sizes – 12mm, 12.5mm, and 13mm. All Defy shafts feature a hybrid taper that is more conical near the butt of the shaft and then becomes less extreme towards the tip. This helps provide increased control no matter what shaft size you choose. You can order the Defy shaft in lengths of 29, 30, or 31-inches.
The Defy carbon fiber shaft is available in all major joint sizes:
- McDermott ⅜”-10
- McDermott Quick Release
- 5/16”-14
- 5/16”-18
- Radial
- Uni-Loc
Does Pool Cue Shaft Size Matter?
Cue shaft diameter definitely matters. A larger shaft and tip diameter is going to mean more surface area during contact, which lessens the chance for a mis-cue and provides more forgiveness after bad contact.
The bigger shaft size will be a better option for a beginner, or someone who doesn’t rely that much on english (spin). The smaller shaft size will create more spin on a cue ball, allow for more precise strikes, but will be less forgiving.
Does Pool Cue Joint Size Matter?
To a certain extent, yes. But when it comes to the joint, it’s mostly personal preference. Usually, someone who prefers a heavier cue will opt for a larger joint, and vice versa.
If you don’t have the ability to customize the joint and you already have a cue butt you want to use, you will need to make sure you buy a shaft that will match that cue. For example, a 3/8” 10-thread joint will not match a shaft that is made for a 5/16” 14-thread joint.
All joint sizes can be chosen in the cart at places where you can order the shaft. The Defy is in stock at McDermott’s site.
In order to avoid confusion, it’s always best to order your pool equipment from a trusted dealer. See where you can order the Defy at the bottom of this article!
How to Clean Your Defy Carbon Fiber Shaft
The Defy shaft is formulated to include a special slip agent that helps maintain the shaft slickness and resist chalk, dirt and oils from building up. An occasional wipe down with a hand towel and some water will be sufficient, but for a few bucks, you can also follow that up with application of McDermott’s Ultra-Glide Shaft Conditioner to help restore the slick feel of the shaft.
Defy Shaft Tip Replacement
The Defy shaft comes with a 0.125” ferrule, and since the shaft should not be sanded, you should send in your shaft to McDermott so it can be professionally repaired. If you sand the surface of your shaft, it will void McDermott’s lifetime warranty.
How Much Does a Defy Shaft Cost?
After shipping, you will pay just over $400 for a standard Defy carbon fiber shaft when bought directly from McDermott.
You will likely be able to find a better deal on eBay if you are patient, and many people take great care of their equipment. Make sure you choose wisely if this is the route you want to take.
Where to Buy a Defy Shaft
We hope you’ve learned enough to decide whether or not the McDermott Defy is the shaft for you, or is at least one that you want to try.
Here are the best places to buy your Defy shaft:
*Note: Stay away from Amazon when considering the Defy shaft. There are no reputable dealers at Amazon offering the Defy, and you don’t want to end up with a fake.
