{"product_id":"longoni-istanbul-carom-cue-butt","title":"Longoni Istanbul Carom Cue Butt","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBUTT ONLY - SHAFT IS NOT INCLUDED.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0249\/0515\/4622\/files\/Longoni_80_2048x2048.jpg?v=1779731669\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor over 80 years, Longoni has represented Italian excellence in billiards. Founded in Mariano Comense, near Milan, Longoni is a family-owned company known worldwide for precision, craftsmanship, design, and reliability. Longoni cues are still produced entirely in Italy under the supervision of the Longoni family and are trusted by many top international players.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003eThe Longoni Istanbul is a professional carom cue developed for Gülsen Degener, the renowned Turkish 3-cushion champion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIntroduced in 2021, the Istanbul combines professional Longoni construction with an original decorative design inspired by flowing floral forms. The model brings together Longoni's established Italian cue-making tradition, modern playing technology, and a distinctive visual identity created specifically for Degener.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe butt is built from Longoni URAL black hornbeam, providing the deep, almost black foundation for the cue's elaborate decorative pattern. A floral theme of synthetic mother-of-pearl inlays extends along the length of the butt, combining white, pearl, gray, and rich green elements against the dark URAL background.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRather than concentrating decoration in only one section, the Istanbul carries its flowing pattern throughout the butt, giving the cue a continuous and immediately recognizable appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternally, the Istanbul uses Longoni Solid Core technology, providing a continuous wood structure through the butt for a natural, unified playing sensation. It is equipped with the Longoni VP2 Grade 5 Titanium joint and an installed 3-Lobite system, allowing the cue to accept a compatible Longoni extension when additional reach is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Istanbul can be paired with several Longoni shaft configurations, including S20 and S30 laminated wooden shafts and the Luna Nera graphite shaft. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach Istanbul features a hand-signed individual number, adding individuality to this professional player model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0249\/0515\/4622\/files\/istanbul_gulsen_FB_LONGONI_960x540_59dd6208-de88-41fb-bdff-995e4ab38f7b.jpg?v=1792626819\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLongoni URAL Black Hornbeam\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eURAL is Longoni's proprietary material based on European hornbeam (Carpinus betulus). Introduced into Longoni products in 2019, URAL begins as a naturally light-colored, hard European wood and undergoes Longoni's specialized deep-staining process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eUsing alternating pressurization and depressurization, an ebony-like black stain penetrates deeply into the wood. This process enhances the natural grain rather than hiding it, creating an almost completely black appearance with visible depth and character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eEuropean hornbeam is valued for its medium-to-high density, stability, durability, and long service life, characteristics particularly well suited to billiard cue construction. It is also a widely available European species and is not considered at risk of extinction, making it a more sustainable choice of cue wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eLongoni selects the best hornbeam logs for the production of URAL, combining the mechanical characteristics of hornbeam with the distinctive deep-black appearance that has become a recognizable feature of modern Longoni cues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOn the Istanbul, URAL provides the dark structural and visual foundation against which the floral synthetic mother-of-pearl decoration is displayed.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-ansi-language: EN-US;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0249\/0515\/4622\/files\/URAL-wood-by-longonicues_1024x1024.jpg?v=1635814078\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFloral Synthetic Mother-of-Pearl Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the defining characteristics of the Istanbul is its extensive floral-themed synthetic mother-of-pearl inlay work. Floral Synthetic Mother-of-Pearl Design\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe decorative pattern flows along the length of the butt rather than appearing as isolated accents. Long white pearl-like sections are combined with green and gray curved elements, creating an organic composition inspired by leaves, petals, and flowing natural forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe contrast between the almost black URAL construction and the luminous synthetic mother-of-pearl elements gives the Istanbul a sophisticated appearance with considerable visual depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe green decorative accents continue into the lower and upper ring areas, visually connecting the different sections of the butt and reinforcing the model's distinctive identity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe result is a cue that combines performance and design, with decoration integrated throughout the construction rather than treated as a separate surface detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLongoni Solid Core Technology\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe Istanbul features Longoni's Solid Core construction, a technology used on selected Longoni models where a continuous wood structure is preferred.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe defining characteristic of Solid Core is the presence of a single continuous wood core extending internally from the joint toward the bumper, creating a highly unified butt construction. Compared with Longoni's HEXA-CORE system, Solid Core is designed to provide a softer playing sensation, while preserving the stability and natural response associated with traditional wood construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eFor the Istanbul, the solid URAL construction and continuous core contribute to a natural, harmonious hit and consistent feedback throughout the cue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0249\/0515\/4622\/files\/longoni-solid-core.png?v=1787786835\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\" style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eVP2 Titanium Joint\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe Istanbul is equipped with Longoni's VP2 Titanium joint, the advanced evolution of Longoni's metal-joint technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eLongoni introduced the VP2 joint in 2004 as a universal precision joint for its cues across multiple billiard disciplines, including pool, five-pins, carom, and Russian pyramid. The VP2 evolved from Longoni's earlier Viper steel joint and was developed to provide a connection that is fast to operate, highly precise, durable, and versatile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eEach VP2 joint pin is carefully aligned after fabrication of the butt to ensure precise positioning with the shaft insert. The threads are electro-polished for exceptionally smooth screw action, and each joint pin is individually laser engraved to support production traceability and quality control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe Istanbul uses the ultra-light Grade 5 titanium version of the VP2 joint. Titanium helps reduce unnecessary joint weight while maintaining excellent strength and rigidity, supporting the balance and responsiveness required in high-level carom play.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe key characteristics of the VP2 Titanium joint include fast and easy locking and unlocking, an ultra-firm connection for efficient energy transfer, precise butt-to-shaft alignment, smooth screw action, resistance to humidity and wear, and a more forward-balanced feel compared with Longoni wooden-joint cues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eLongoni VP2 shafts may use brass or Ergal inserts, with the combination of joint and insert materials selected to help optimize cue balance and playing characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe VP2 system also provides broad compatibility across Longoni shaft technologies, allowing the Istanbul to be paired with S2, S20, and S30 laminated wooden shafts or the Luna Nera graphite shaft, depending on the player's preferred feel and performance characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0249\/0515\/4622\/files\/vp2-titanio-aperta.jpg?v=1780170766\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIntegrated 3-Lobite System\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe Istanbul comes with the Longoni 3-Lobite system installed, meaning the cue is prepared for use with the Longoni 3-Lobite extension system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eThe integrated connection allows a compatible Longoni extension to be attached quickly and securely whenever additional reach is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003ePlease note\u003c\/span\u003e: the extension itself is not included unless specifically stated in the listing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDeveloped for Gülsen Degener\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Istanbul was developed specifically for Gülsen Degener, combining Longoni's Italian cue-making experience with a highly distinctive design created for the Turkish three-cushion champion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts combination of solid URAL construction, extensive floral synthetic mother-of-pearl inlays, Solid Core technology, VP2 Grade 5 Titanium joint, and installed 3-Lobite system gives the Istanbul a character that balances professional performance with elaborate Italian design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst produced in 2021, the Istanbul remains part of the Longoni collection and is not a limited edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach cue is individually identified by a hand-signed number.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eButt-Only Configuration\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThis listing is for the Longoni Istanbul cue butt only.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" class=\"\"\u003eThe butt has a minimum weight of approximately 380 g. The installed VP2 Titanium joint allows the cue to be paired with compatible Longoni shafts according to the player's preferred profile, construction, and playing characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Features:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-pm-slice='1 1 [\"list\",{\"spread\":false,\"start\":8047,\"end\":10036},\"regular_list_item\",{\"start\":8047,\"end\":8175}]'\u003eDeveloped for Gülsen Degener – Professional carom cue created specifically for the renowned Turkish three-cushion champion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-pm-slice='1 1 [\"list\",{\"spread\":false,\"start\":8047,\"end\":10036},\"regular_list_item\",{\"start\":8047,\"end\":8175}]'\u003eFloral synthetic mother-of-pearl inlays – Flowing pearl, green, and gray decorative elements extend throughout the butt to create the Istanbul's distinctive floral theme\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFull-length decorative composition – Inlay pattern continues along the cue instead of being limited to individual decorative sections\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-pm-slice='1 1 [\"list\",{\"spread\":false,\"start\":8047,\"end\":10036},\"regular_list_item\",{\"start\":8047,\"end\":8175}]'\u003eLongoni URAL black hornbeam – Proprietary treated European hornbeam with a deep ebony-like appearance while retaining visible natural grain\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLongoni Solid Core technology – Continuous internal wood structure from the joint toward the bumper provides unified construction and a softer playing sensation compared with HEXA-CORE\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVP2 Grade 5 titanium joint – Lightweight precision metal joint designed for firm locking, exact alignment, smooth operation, wear resistance, and efficient energy transfer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3-Lobite installed – Butt is prepared for compatible Longoni 3-Lobite extensions; extension is not included with this configuration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMultiple shaft options – Compatible with Longoni S20 and S30 laminated wooden shafts as well as the Luna Nera graphite shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProfessional carom construction – Designed specifically for 3-cushion billiards with a minimum butt weight of approximately 380 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdjustable butt weight – Minimum butt weight can be increased or fine-tuned using compatible bolts from the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/billiard.city\/products\/longoni-special-wax-for-wooden-pool-cue-shafts-new-formula-1-oz?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=718cae66b\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eLongoni Weight Bolt Kit\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHand-signed individual number – Each Istanbul features its own hand-signed number\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo-wrap construction – Smooth wood handgrip maintains direct contact with the butt and preserves the uninterrupted design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMade in Italy – Manufactured entirely in Italy using selected materials, precision production, and established Longoni cue-making craftsmanship\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eButt-only listing – Includes the Longoni Istanbul cue butt; shaft and extension are not included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eProduct Specifications:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrand: Longoni\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eModel: Istanbul\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProfessional Player: Gülsen Degener\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDiscipline: Carom \/ 3-Cushion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProduct Type: Professional Carom Cue Butt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfiguration: Butt Only\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStatus: In Collection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLimited Edition: No\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYear of First Production: 2021\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrimary Wood: Longoni URAL\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWood Species: European Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eURAL Treatment: Proprietary Deep Black Staining Process\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCore Construction: Longoni Solid Core\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSolid Core Design: Continuous wood structure through the butt\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlaying Characteristic: Softer playing sensation compared with HEXA-CORE\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecorative Theme: Floral\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecorative Material: Synthetic Mother of Pearl\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDecorative Colors: Pearl White, Green, Gray\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWrap: No Wrap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eButt Length: 720 mm \/ 72 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eButt Minimum Weight: Approximately 380 g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeight Adjustment: Compatible with \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/billiard.city\/products\/longoni-special-wax-for-wooden-pool-cue-shafts-new-formula-1-oz?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=718cae66b\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eLongoni Weight Bolt Kit\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeight Customization: Butt weight can be increased and fine-tuned to player preference\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eButt Joint Collar Diameter: 22 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLower Collar Diameter: 32.5 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJoint System: Longoni VP2\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJoint Material: Grade 5 Titanium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJoint Type: Precision Metal Joint\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJoint Characteristics: Fast Locking, Firm Connection, Precision Alignment, Humidity Resistant, Wear Resistant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBalance Characteristic: More Forward-Balanced Compared with Longoni Wooden-Joint Cues\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEmbedded Technology: VP2 Titanium, Solid Core, 3-Lobite Installed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3-Lobite System: Installed and prepared for compatible Longoni extensions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtension Included: No\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSerial Number: Hand-Signed Individual Number\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCertificate: Official Longoni Certificate of Authenticity Included\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePro Player Model: Yes – Gülsen Degener\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShafts Included: No\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible Wooden Shafts: Longoni S20, S30\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible Graphite Shaft: Longoni Luna Nera\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlayer's Shaft Configuration: Luna Nera\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCountry of Manufacture: Italy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eIncluded Accessories:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\" style=\"margin-top: 0cm;\"\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eLongoni NEO neoprene bag\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eJoint protector\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eLongoni cues brochure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eLongoni accessories brochure\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eLongoni certificate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-ansi-language: EN-US;\" lang=\"EN-US\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBUTT ONLY - SHAFT IS NOT INCLUDED.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0249\/0515\/4622\/files\/longoni_stecche-trademark_1024x384_ab6d28db-517f-4cc2-8147-84596e93734d_2048x2048.jpg?v=1578691948\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Longoni","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67744247349382,"sku":"98489-BUTT","price":1095.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0249\/0515\/4622\/files\/Main_3601faf2-9eff-4fca-81a9-24b863245264.jpg?v=1792626402","url":"https:\/\/billiard.city\/products\/longoni-istanbul-carom-cue-butt","provider":"Billiard City","version":"1.0","type":"link"}