Budget

First, figure out your budget before buying pool cues.
Pool sticks run from $30 to $1000+ but you can expect to get a perfectly good playing cue for around $100.  Just make sure it has the most important features.

Pool Cues: Look for quality

1. Material: Look for cues made from high-quality materials such as hard rock maple or graphite. Maple is a traditional choice for pool cues and is known for its durability and consistency, while graphite is a more modern option that is lighter and offers more flexibility.

2. The wood should be treated and have high gloss finish.

3. You’re looking for a ferrule that is fiber and not plastic. 

4. Good tips will be leather and come in soft, medium or hard. Soft has more control but doesn’t last as long. Had has less control but good for hard hitters. Medium is a do-it-all tip.

5. Two piece with either a brass or steel joint. (A one piece is perfectly fine it’s just difficult to haul around)

6. New quality sticks should come with a warranty. http://mcdonaldsbilliardsupply

Things that make the price go up:
1. Anything that makes it look pretty
2. Wraps
3. Inlays
4. Extra hand craftsmanship 

Weights range between 17 and 22oz normally. If you are more of a finesse player you might like the lighter sticks for control and better feedback. When you’re not sure where you fit in, a good middle weight around 19oz may suit you fine.

Tip: Don’t crack your personal stick

For breaking I would grab a heavy house stick off the wall like a 22oz. Just to save your personal stick from the possible damage it could incur from hitting the ball so hard over and over.
When choosing a stick at a bar to break with roll it on the table and make sure it doesn’t wabble. Also, check the tip and make sure it is not flat on the top. Additionally, make sure the ferrule is straight and not loose.
 
Having your own stick will help you improve your game and usually gives people more confidence. Good Luck!