Pick Your Shaft: McDermott i2 vs. i3 Intimidator Shafts
McDermott’s Intimidator shaft line offers a pro-quality shaft lineup that provides players with plenty of flexibility. No matter if you’re a power player or a feel player, the i-series is a low deflection shaft that can satisfy the needs of anyone. Thanks to McDermott, players have a choice between power and spin rates like never before.
First, we’ll go over the key features of the i-Series shafts, then we’ll discuss the differences between the i2 and i3 shaft offerings.
i-Series Shaft Features
- 3-layer carbon fiber core
- Radial consistency
- Tenon tip technology
- Comes standard with a premium Navigator cue tip
The 3-layer carbon fiber core spans the entire length of the shaft, from tip to joint, and offers unmatched shaft stability and strength. In turn, players can expect consistency, control and reduced vibration for the life of the shaft – something that cannot be said about 100% maple shafts.
Radial consistency means that your i-Series shaft’s performance will be the same shot after shot, regardless of the shaft’s position. This consistency also results in a shaft that will create a straighter ball path. You won’t have to compensate for spin or throw like you would with an all-maple shaft.
The patented tenon tip technology transfers energy from the cue tip directly to the shaft’s carbon fiber core. This means you’ll experience a solid hit, and a more accurate result on well struck shots.
The Intimidator shafts come with a premium Navigator tip. This tip is widely respected in the billiard community, and is made with 100% Japanese pigskin leather. This tip is highly resistant to hardening and is attached to the shaft with an adhesive that will not harm the leather’s hardness.
i2 Shaft
- Pro Taper
- 12.75mm diameter
- Joint size: 3/8”-10 (standard)
- Navigator Blue Impact Pro Tip
- 29-inch standard shaft length
The i2 is known for control and consistency. It’s a great all-around shaft for players who need maximum control in a cue shaft that won’t sacrifice power or finesse. This shaft comes standard on McDermott cues that cost $965 or more. If you feel pretty good about your stroke, but there’s still room to improve, this is the shaft for you.
i3 Shaft
- European taper
- 11.75mm diameter
- Joint size: 3/8”-10 (standard)
- Navigator Blue Impact Pro Tip
- 29-inch standard shaft length
The i3 is designed for maximum spin and finesse. The i-3 is a skinnier shaft, so this is a great option for more experienced players who have great control of their stroke since there’s a higher chance of error due to less surface area at the tip. If you are highly confident in your stroke, but are needing more cue ball action, this is the shaft for you.
Both i2 and i3 shafts come standard with the same Navigator Blue Impact Pro tip. This tip is towards the harder end of the tip spectrum. This means you’ll have a tip that has slightly less compression than average which will prevent excessive grip force and unwanted spin. This is definitely a tip that promotes cue ball speed and acceleration.
McDermott i-Series Custom Shaft Joints
While the Intimidator shafts come standard with a 3/8”-10 joint, that doesn’t mean you don’t have a choice. McDermott can install any joint fitting into your i2 or i3 shaft so that it will fit the butt of your preferred pool cue. McDermott recommends that you send in your cue butt when ordering your shaft so they can ensure a perfect fit for your new shaft.
McDermott can’t guarantee a cue that performs the way it should if you don’t send in your cue. If this is the route you need to take, get in touch with your trusted McDermott dealer to get this process started.
McDermott Intimidator Shaft Prices
Both the i2 and i3 shafts start at $300. You will pay a little bit more for the following upgrades: McDermott quick release or uni-loc joint, ultra premium Navigator or Kamui cue tips, added rings to your joint collar, or 30/31-inch shaft length options.
In conclusion..
We hope this has helped make your cue shaft search just a little bit easier. You can rest assured that either shaft from McDermott will provide a consistent upgrade that you can rely on for years to come.
Billiard equipment has a solid re-sale value, so if you can manage it, the best thing to do may be to buy both cues so you can compare side by side. If you need to sell one, there’s always someone out there who needs an upgrade!
Take care and happy shooting!
