I’ve been playing competitively for over 40 years, own a couple of Meucci cues, a McDermott and some other premium cues and I have to say, the Valhalla gives them a run for their money! I have the VA232, and it’s actually THE straightest cue stick I own. The tip isn’t GREAT and I’ll be swapping it out soon. It’s just a tad softer than I prefer so I don’t get the power that I’m used to, but there’s really nothing WRONG with it either, so if you like that softer feel then you’ll love this tip.Finish is smooth and silky and nearly flawless. Love the shaft taper. It honestly feels like I’m playing with one of my $600+ cue sticks…it’s really THAT good. I expected it to be above average, knowing it’s QC’d by Viking, but it surpassed my expectations. Easily worth double or triple the price ($120 currently)!