Shafts Shafts Shafts!! ARGH!

Oi.  So, it's come to my attention that I have the ability to pick up a new shaft in the next couple of weeks.  Now the big problem: WHICH ONE!?!

I've already discussed the Predator Z2 and the OB-2 cue to death, but I'm still undecided.  Add to that, the off-chance of picking up a 1st gen Z for a lot less money and I'm really confused.  Rumor has it the 1st gens are potentially better made because the manufacturer kept all the wood pieces together to make the shaft.  The 2nd gen is a random assortment of pieces to make the shaft.  Does it matter? I don't know.

On top of all of that is the choice of whether or not I actually want to force myself into a thin shaft lifestyle.  I will, of course, always have my original shaft (now with new Talisman tip) and if I really find that playing with such a thin shaft simply isn't for me, well, then I can sell it and pick up an OB-1 or 314. 


[Geek Mode]
The OB-1 is an awesome name... Obi-Wan Kenobe.
314 is equally awesome: Pi
[/Geek Mode]

I will have the opportunity to hit with both shafts, but neither of them will be attached to my own cue, so how much of what I like about the hit is the cue and how much is the shaft/tip?  Lastly - how much will I adjust to the shaft versus trying to force the shaft to my liking?