Some words of wisdom before you make any decisions...
Which cue is best?
Don't waste your time worrying whether one type of cue is 'better' than another because all cues benefit from the same attention to detail, finishing, and level of quality that is synonomous with the name Mike Wooldridge - recognised the world over as a benchmark for others to try and match.
So, whether you choose from stock or order a custom cue, you can be safe in the knowledge that you really are getting the BEST quality playing cue regardless.
Sin Bin
Occasionally, during final sizing/finishing, minor visual 'flaws' in a shaft may become apparent and the cue will be banished to a corner of the workshop pending later consideration.
When I find time to study these cues further, they either get passed or labelled 'Sin Bin' and sold cheaper than standard price. It's a very fine line but you can be certain it will be a great playing cue regardless.
For a better understanding, read Shafts section.