Is the Predator Air 2 Jump Cue the best on the market?

This review is for those who either have or want to step their game up to the next level. The basic pool player owns one cue which is used to play every kind of shot; even to break. You can see the drawback of this. No one cue can be optimized to play the best straight shots, English, masse and jump shots all at the same time. Specialized cues will always win in their specialized areas.

This review takes a look at a cue that is specifically designed to assist you with mastering the jump shot. It goes by the name Predator Air 2.

Predator Air 2 First Impression

The Predator Air 2 comes with a Predator cloth sleeve and joint protector. The shaft comes in three pieces. The section with the tip has a typical polished wooden finish. The middle section has a carbon fiber collar and is matte black in color. The third section is also matte black in color and when added, brings the shaft from 40” to 47”. The matte black finish gives the shaft an elegant look and is very comfortable to hold.

The first joint from the tip is a Uni-Loc ultra-light mini radial joint. The joint at the additional extension is a Uni-Loc quick release. The tip is phenolic with carbon fiber and is super hard for maximum energy transfer. The shaft costs about $290 which is slightly above average as far as professional jump cues go.

Now let’s get into the meat of the matter.

Jumping with the Predator Air 2

For the first set of tests for the Predator Air 2, I set up some standard jump shots at varying distances. For longer jumps, I used the American grip. This requires the full extension of the Predator Air 2. The cue is very lightweight, especially at the tip, and has a comfortable grip. This allows for rapid movement of the shaft which causes the ball to jump effortlessly. Of course, you do have to actually know the technique to make a jump shot for it to work. Also, remember that this cue still needs to be properly chalked.

For close shots, I removed the extension, making a much lighter and shorter shaft. It becomes very easy to hold the shaft with the English or dart grip at this point. This allows higher elevation of the shaft, thus enabling a higher and quicker jump elevation of the cue ball. This was done very easily and comfortably. The shaft makes for a very precise aim and gives great control of jump shots.

Playing with the Predator Air 2 Jump Cue

I have now played many games since purchasing the Predator Air 2 and can safely say this is the best jump cue I have ever used. I have had to whip it out on more than a few occasions and am always confident about the success of my jump shots. The versatility and precision of this cue is on point and is ideal to get you out of tricky situations. I personally find the cue more comfortable to use with the American style grip than with the English grip.

Predator Air 2 Jump Cue Grading

This is one of the best jump cues on the market. It greatly enhances your game when necessary and is not that pricey. I give this product a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating and do recommend you give it a shot.