The Double Shatter Shot or "DSS" is simple in its essential concept. You and a close friend (or enemy you wish injured) face each other behind the 9- and 6-balls as depicted (or any two balls you don’t care for) and shoot them very hard at each other at exactly the same moment on the count of three (making sure your life insurance is paid up first).
It is a smart idea to line up at the table and practice counting “three” and stroking without using balls before attempting this stunt so there are no “messy” blips in timing (read: the person who shot their ball late dies or is rendered sterile).
In an “ideal” DS shot, the balls meet in spectacular, noisy fashion at the precise middle of the table and leap into the air backwards as they recoil. You and your partner (victim?) suavely drop your cuesticks to extend your bridge hands to catch the balls one-handed to thunderous applause!
In one memorable incident, two “pool geniuses” performed the big DSS before their friends and family, and on “three” sent both balls heavenward for a true double shatter, crushing the bar lamp above the table, which fell and demolished the table, plunging the room into darkness to the sound of falling glass and metal as onlookers screamed rather than applauded.
The dubious footage won an “award” on a popular TV show highlighting homemade videos, although it did little to advance the cause of skillful trick shots.
I admit to my shame I have witnessed other pool geniuses attempt the DS shot live, often to the tune of broken equipment and select body parts. Take my word for it, do not attempt the DSS at home, where other players you respect have gathered, or indeed anywhere in the company of decent society. You have been duly warned, pool citizen!
