Action ACT173 Fractal Cue – 13 mm Layered Tip, Hard Rock Maple

Your cue isn’t just a tool—it’s an extension of your game, your style, your statement. The Action ACT173 Fractal Series Cue delivers both the performance-engineered build that serious players expect and the visual flair that stands out at the table. With its rich blue-stained maple forearm, alternating blue and gold foil points outlined in black, and a solid hard rock maple shaft with a pro taper, this is a cue you’ll feel good about using—and others will notice.

Whether you’re in a league, playing casually with friends, or simply upgrading your gear, the ACT173 offers reliability, responsiveness and aesthetic distinction. From firm stroke to finesse shot, this cue has the components to back you up.

Key Features & Benefits

Here’s what makes the ACT173 tick—and why each feature matters:

• 13 mm layered tip – The cue comes equipped with a 13 mm Action 7-layer tip (vacuum sealed) which provides excellent grip on the cue ball, allowing for spin control, draw shots, and consistent contact.

• 1″ fiber-linen ferrule – This ferrule reduces unwanted vibration, giving a cleaner feel through your stroke and better feedback when executing your shot.

• 29″ Hard Rock Maple Shaft with 10-12″ Pro Taper – The shaft is the heart of your cue. The hard rock maple offers stiffness and durability; the pro taper gives you a consistent stroke feel from tip to forearm.

• Weight adjustable – The ACT173 is weight-changeable using Action’s weight bolts, letting you fine-tune your cue to your preferred shooting feel (18-21 oz, depending on model) rather than being stuck with one fixed weight.

• Visual design – Blue stained maple, blue & gold foil points – The forearm features a striking blue-stain with gold foil highlights and black outlines, giving a premium, bold look that tells the table you mean business.

• Wrap – Black Irish linen – The wrap material gives you a comfortable, reliable grip that performs in long sessions, and the black color keeps the look clean and versatile.

Technical Specifications

Here’s a more detailed specs sheet you can put in a collapsible “Specifications” tab:

• Tip Diameter: 13 mm, Action 7-layer tip.

• Ferrule: 1″ fiber-linen ferrule.

• Shaft: 29″ hard rock maple, 10-12″ pro taper.

• Joint / Pin Threading: 5/16″ × 18 thread.

• Wrap: Black Irish linen wrap.

• Forearm Design: Blue stained maple with alternating blue and gold foil points outlined in black.

• Weight Options: 18 oz, 19 oz, 20 oz, 21 oz weight options (weight-changeable via Action weight bolts).

• Butt Plate & Bumper: Black with silver Action logo. Rubber plug bumper BUMPACT style.

• Wrap/Butt Sleeve: No separate butt sleeve; extended wrap design.

• Warranty: 1 year limited manufacturing warranty.

Who This Cue Is For

The ACT173 is a great fit if you’re looking for a cue that balances style, feel and performance. Here are the types of players who will appreciate it:

• Intermediate to advanced players who want to step up from basic gear into something with strong specs and visual premium touches.

• League players who need reliability and consistency, and want a cue that looks as good as it performs.

• Players who value aesthetics – The blue/gold foil design makes a statement, so if you care about how your cue appears as much as how it hits, this is a solid pick.

• Versatile shooters – Since it’s weight-adjustable, you can fine-tune the feel over time or pick the weight that suits your style now and in the future.

It might not be ideal if you are strictly on a budget (there are simpler cues for less) or if you prefer ultra-light cues under 18 oz (since this model tops out around 21 oz). But for most players stepping into a mid-premium cue, it hits a sweet spot.

Usage & Performance Tips

Here are some practical tips to get the most out of the ACT173:

• Find your weight sweet spot. Since this model supports weight-changing bolts, experiment with different weights (e.g., 19 vs 20 oz) and see which one gives you the best “feel” in your stroke. Heavier gives more stability/power; lighter gives quicker recovery.

• Don’t skip tip maintenance. While the 13 mm layered tip is high quality, it still benefits from proper shaping and scuffing. Keep the tip well maintained for consistent results in spin and draw shots.

• Wrap care matters. The Irish linen wrap gives you good grip; after long sessions, wipe it down to remove chalk dust and oils so the texture remains consistent.

• Protect your cue. Even premium cues benefit from good storage. A cue case is essential, and avoid extreme heat or humidity, which can affect maple shafts.

• Make use of the visual design. The striking blue and gold forearm draws attention—but the real benefit is confidence. When you feel your gear looks good, it often helps your mental state at the table.

• Break-in & check straightness. While the shaft is built from hard rock maple, give yourself 1-2 practice sessions to get comfortable with how it responds. Check for any twist or deflection early to ensure you’re getting the expected precision.

Why This Cue Stands Out

What makes the ACT173 different (and better) than many standard cues in its price class?

• Many cues in this range compromise on one of tip quality, shaft material or design aesthetics—but the ACT173 delivers a solid mix: layered tip, professional shaft, and stylish design.

• The weight-changeable feature adds flexibility: you’re not locked into one fixed feel forever. That’s a big plus for growing players.

• The design detail (blue stain + gold foil points) isn’t just decorative—it signals build care and gives you a cue you feel proud to bring to the table.

• The specs (hard rock maple, pro taper, 13 mm tip) speak to performance, not just looks. So you’re getting substance as well as style.

Care & Maintenance

Here are some best practices to make sure your ACT173 stays in optimal shape for years:

• • After each session: Wipe down the shaft and butt with a soft cloth to remove chalk dust and hand oils.

  • Tip checks: Make sure the tip remains rounded and clean—reshape as needed. A tip that flattens or mushrooms will degrade spin control.

  • Wrap care: If your wrap becomes chalk-soaked or slippery, clean it gently or consider re-wrapping. A good grip is key.

  • Storage: Store in a climates-controlled area. Avoid leaning the cue for long periods; use a cue case.

  • Joint care: Even though this cue may not include a joint protector, it’s wise to use one or at least keep the joint clean and threads lightly oiled (with appropriate product) to avoid wear.

  • Weight bolt check: If you adjust weights, make sure bolts are properly tightened and periodically inspect them. Loose weights can affect feel and performance.