Pool / Billiards: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Table Dimensions
A big consideration in pool table dimensions is the endless question of how much space to leave around the table for free play. We have the answers for you.
A big consideration in pool table dimensions is the endless question of how much space to leave around the table for free play. We have the answers for you.
Buying a Custom Pool Cue
Your guide to narrowing down choices and selecting the best possible custom pool cue.
Your guide to narrowing down choices and selecting the best possible custom pool cue.
How to break in 8 ball
When discussing the best 8 ball breaks, including how to break in the 8 ball with this all-important stroke, it becomes necessary both to emphasize basic break strategy and specific 8 ball break technique. Victory in 8 ball pool at times requires (rules permitting) a commitment to sink the 8 ball on the break, and at other times, a mere shattering of the rack to spread the balls effectively to win the game.
When discussing the best 8 ball breaks, including how to break in the 8 ball with this all-important stroke, it becomes necessary both to emphasize basic break strategy and specific 8 ball break technique. Victory in 8 ball pool at times requires (rules permitting) a commitment to sink the 8 ball on the break, and at other times, a mere shattering of the rack to spread the balls effectively to win the game.
Pool Table Sizes
Pool Table Sizes: Tables measuring 4' x 8' have a key disadvantage (okay, challenge)...
Pool Table Sizes: Tables measuring 4' x 8' have a key disadvantage (okay, challenge)...
Best Pool Cue
Here are some helpful hints on buying your "best pool cue": Want more spin and speed, even if you get
Here are some helpful hints on buying your "best pool cue": Want more spin and speed, even if you get
9-Ball
9-Ball's game rules and strategy are deceptively simple. But there is far more to the action than meets the eye.
9-Ball's game rules and strategy are deceptively simple. But there is far more to the action than meets the eye.
Billiards Instruction
You asked for it this billiards instruction! Ten of the obvious (to me, and soon to you) errors pool shooters make to lose games, throw off their rhythm, and ruin and otherwise good evening of pool.
You asked for it this billiards instruction! Ten of the obvious (to me, and soon to you) errors pool shooters make to lose games, throw off their rhythm, and ruin and otherwise good evening of pool.
Questions to Ask, First
Price alone is not an indicator of table quality. There are questions requiring forethought before you purchase a pool table.
Price alone is not an indicator of table quality. There are questions requiring forethought before you purchase a pool table.
Learning a Classic Pool Stroke
There are quite a number of different stroking motions that can be made with the shooting arm to pocket
There are quite a number of different stroking motions that can be made with the shooting arm to pocket
Young Player
Young player Arness will need his best to defeat Mosconi--here's why.
Young player Arness will need his best to defeat Mosconi--here's why.
9 Ball Breaks
Here are some fast tips to sharpen your 9 ball breaks instantly. Learn how to rack 9 ball then smash like the pros, with accuracy and power for optimal 9 ball strategy, in moments.
Here are some fast tips to sharpen your 9 ball breaks instantly. Learn how to rack 9 ball then smash like the pros, with accuracy and power for optimal 9 ball strategy, in moments.
Top ten ways to pound open bre
Drum roll, please! The top ten tips on breaking in pool and billiards--for when you want an open break to scatter the balls to the winds.
Drum roll, please! The top ten tips on breaking in pool and billiards--for when you want an open break to scatter the balls to the winds.
4' x 9' Table Size
The 4' x 9' table size is the best, commonly used for top tournament play, and here's why.
The 4' x 9' table size is the best, commonly used for top tournament play, and here's why.
Billiards Shot
Over a dozen billiards shot tips in an article geared to improve your pool skills.
Over a dozen billiards shot tips in an article geared to improve your pool skills.
8-Ball
How to make 8-Ball rules made simple--and fair.
How to make 8-Ball rules made simple--and fair.
Secrets Of Aiming In Pool And Billiards
I'd love for all billiard players to know the truth regarding the real secrets of aiming in pool-the
I'd love for all billiard players to know the truth regarding the real secrets of aiming in pool-the
Stance: The Big Secret!
This may be the most important article you'll ever read as a pool player. 99% of casual players are lining up improperly at the pool table and here are the step-by-step wrong and right ways to shoot pool.
This may be the most important article you'll ever read as a pool player. 99% of casual players are lining up improperly at the pool table and here are the step-by-step wrong and right ways to shoot pool.
Cue Tips
Whether you plan to exchange cue tips immediately or no, here's a closer look at what billiards pros are into lately for their cue tips.
Whether you plan to exchange cue tips immediately or no, here's a closer look at what billiards pros are into lately for their cue tips.
Pool Training
Pool training you can take to the bank, oh hustler.
Pool training you can take to the bank, oh hustler.
Moving After The Ball
Moving After The Ball Is Hit, Is That Okay?
Moving After The Ball Is Hit, Is That Okay?
Light Or Heavy Cue Weight
Use a billiard playing cue weight that is light or heavy? Do you know how to choose? We show you how.
Use a billiard playing cue weight that is light or heavy? Do you know how to choose? We show you how.
Pool Table Size
Overseas, people want to know whether they should use “American” or “English” for their base pool table size.
Overseas, people want to know whether they should use “American” or “English” for their base pool table size.
Pool Table Space Requirements
Calculating accurate pool table space requirements? Let our guide help you.
Calculating accurate pool table space requirements? Let our guide help you.
Top 8 Pool Strokes
Here are my 8 top pool strokes, there's more than one way to hit the cue ball to win. Here are some of the most important techniques for the beginner to learn.
Here are my 8 top pool strokes, there's more than one way to hit the cue ball to win. Here are some of the most important techniques for the beginner to learn.
Pool Shot
This is little known, but is perhaps the best pool shot to train your eyes in making other pool shots.
This is little known, but is perhaps the best pool shot to train your eyes in making other pool shots.
Basic Bank Shots
Aiming bank shots in pool and billiards with precision is easy, if you use this method, which relies upon an aiming secret you already know.
Aiming bank shots in pool and billiards with precision is easy, if you use this method, which relies upon an aiming secret you already know.
Straighten a Bent Shaft
Don't throw away a bent cuestick! A warped shaft can easily be straightened again and the cue made ready for play.
Don't throw away a bent cuestick! A warped shaft can easily be straightened again and the cue made ready for play.
Pro Pool
Ten pro pool tips your opponents don’t know, brought to you by About.com
Ten pro pool tips your opponents don’t know, brought to you by About.com
How To Sink Balls On The Break
How to sink more balls on the break? I'll tell you how the pros do it and how to straighten your break stroke at the same time.
How to sink more balls on the break? I'll tell you how the pros do it and how to straighten your break stroke at the same time.
Minnesota Fats
Minnesota Fats was a legend of pool and remains so today. Here are all his fascinating details in one place.
Minnesota Fats was a legend of pool and remains so today. Here are all his fascinating details in one place.
How To Shoot Pool
Learn from my coaching of regional and national champs how to shoot pool better in competition and friendly play.
Learn from my coaching of regional and national champs how to shoot pool better in competition and friendly play.
Aiming the Cue Ball
How does the pool professional take aim at billiard balls, those sometimes difficult-to-discern spheres far away across the table? Review our step-by-step look at traditional and professional pool and billiards aim methods.
How does the pool professional take aim at billiard balls, those sometimes difficult-to-discern spheres far away across the table? Review our step-by-step look at traditional and professional pool and billiards aim methods.
Straight Shot
Drill Your Next Straight Shot - Bar none, beginning and intermediate pool shooters (and not a few experts) are stymied shooting a straight shot, one where the cue ball and the target object ball rest along a straight-in path to the pocket.
Drill Your Next Straight Shot - Bar none, beginning and intermediate pool shooters (and not a few experts) are stymied shooting a straight shot, one where the cue ball and the target object ball rest along a straight-in path to the pocket.
8-Ball Power Break
Stop action unretouched photography shows the power of a skilled 8-ball open break.
Stop action unretouched photography shows the power of a skilled 8-ball open break.
Ball-In-Hand
Pool Definition -- Ball-In-Hand
Pool Definition -- Ball-In-Hand
English
Pool Definition -- English
Pool Definition -- English
How To Practice Pool
How to practice pool skills effectively and get on a virtuous cycle of continuous improvement.
How to practice pool skills effectively and get on a virtuous cycle of continuous improvement.
Best Pool Cues
The best pool cues may not even be straight. Here's why.
The best pool cues may not even be straight. Here's why.
Pool English
A reader takes object balls out for a pool english side-spin: â...Great info that you've got on the website,
A reader takes object balls out for a pool english side-spin: â...Great info that you've got on the website,
How To Become A Professional Pool Player
How to become a professional pool player by skipping the hours of tedious drills and instead doing my preferred billiards training methods, while having a lot of fun.
How to become a professional pool player by skipping the hours of tedious drills and instead doing my preferred billiards training methods, while having a lot of fun.
How To Aim In Billiards
How to aim in billiards using tried and true tips. Here's a quick rundown of some of the aim tips and techniques I share in pocket billiards clinics and individual lessons.
How to aim in billiards using tried and true tips. Here's a quick rundown of some of the aim tips and techniques I share in pocket billiards clinics and individual lessons.
Heart and Soul
Beware rip-offs! Table ads that guarantee “regulation size” mean nothing in particular...
Beware rip-offs! Table ads that guarantee “regulation size” mean nothing in particular...
Cheap Ploy
Far too small to offer a true test of skill, these are toys for young children mostly.
Far too small to offer a true test of skill, these are toys for young children mostly.
The Right And Wrong Draw
The secret to draw the cue ball accurately lies in not lifting the hand abrubtly, before the stroke begins; step-by-step photos and techniques.
The secret to draw the cue ball accurately lies in not lifting the hand abrubtly, before the stroke begins; step-by-step photos and techniques.
20 Top Billiards Lies - Do Sto
Sort fact from fiction (and cloth friction) with these 20 pieces of garbage that even some famous pros and teachers use in their lessons. Billiards on this GuideSite is like life, in that I enjoy sorting myths from truth.
Sort fact from fiction (and cloth friction) with these 20 pieces of garbage that even some famous pros and teachers use in their lessons. Billiards on this GuideSite is like life, in that I enjoy sorting myths from truth.
Crush Your 9-Ball Break
Crushing a 9-ball rack like the pros is easy when you know how--and here it is outlined for you in stop action photos.
Crushing a 9-ball rack like the pros is easy when you know how--and here it is outlined for you in stop action photos.
Pool Break
An interesting pool break question today from a devoted website reader. A fellow writes to ask if...
An interesting pool break question today from a devoted website reader. A fellow writes to ask if...
Buy A Pool Table
Buy your next pool table, new or used, the smart way.
Buy your next pool table, new or used, the smart way.
Bar Pool Tables
Should bar pool tables be used at all by the serious pool player? Here's our debate showing both sides of the issue.
Should bar pool tables be used at all by the serious pool player? Here's our debate showing both sides of the issue.
Pool Movie
We salute a pool movie--actually, a list of very hot pool movies to die for and dive into.
We salute a pool movie--actually, a list of very hot pool movies to die for and dive into.
ChalkingTime
Practice Drills That Develop Consistency - Part 2 - Critical review of what is needed to build ultra-consistency in your pool game.
Practice Drills That Develop Consistency - Part 2 - Critical review of what is needed to build ultra-consistency in your pool game.
8-Ball Or 9-Ball
8-Ball Or 9-Ball Billiards, And Why?
8-Ball Or 9-Ball Billiards, And Why?
Billiards Book Reviews
Arthur Bacon's pool book reviews, continued: Phil Capelle, lovable as he is, is like a guy with adult
Arthur Bacon's pool book reviews, continued: Phil Capelle, lovable as he is, is like a guy with adult
GhostBall
We're going back to the ghost ball method of aim to teach you sectional aim -- the ghost ball replacement method of the billiards pros.
We're going back to the ghost ball method of aim to teach you sectional aim -- the ghost ball replacement method of the billiards pros.
How To Pool
How to hold your pool cue? Let's take a closer look, shall we?
How to hold your pool cue? Let's take a closer look, shall we?
Play Pool Games
Play pool games in your spare time? Are you more serious that that? What are the best possible pool games to play and why?
Play pool games in your spare time? Are you more serious that that? What are the best possible pool games to play and why?
Playing Professionals
Playing professsionals use a wide variety of aim methods; Fraction Aim, Edge to Edge Aim, Ghost Ball Aim, Contact Point Aim, Parallel Aim, Pivot Aim, and other aim systems. How to choose the correct methods are outlined within.
Playing professsionals use a wide variety of aim methods; Fraction Aim, Edge to Edge Aim, Ghost Ball Aim, Contact Point Aim, Parallel Aim, Pivot Aim, and other aim systems. How to choose the correct methods are outlined within.
Jump Break Cue
I am answering a probing question today regarding that ultimate show stopper, the jump break cue. Do you need a jump break cue at all or should you separate tools?
I am answering a probing question today regarding that ultimate show stopper, the jump break cue. Do you need a jump break cue at all or should you separate tools?
Top 3 Shaft Tapers
No two custom pool cues are the same. The taper of the shaft offers a range of control options in determining play.
No two custom pool cues are the same. The taper of the shaft offers a range of control options in determining play.
Shooting Pool With English
Shooting pool with english, you are likely to miss your target or miscue without using the methods I describe. Here are reasons to shoot with carabao english or parallel english.
Shooting pool with english, you are likely to miss your target or miscue without using the methods I describe. Here are reasons to shoot with carabao english or parallel english.
The Greatest Pool Hustler
Arguably the greatest pool hustler ever, Vernon Elliott was one of those pocket billiards legends who never played tournaments before the public but cashed against all the great. Here's his story.
Arguably the greatest pool hustler ever, Vernon Elliott was one of those pocket billiards legends who never played tournaments before the public but cashed against all the great. Here's his story.
How To Play Straight Pool Better
How to play better Straight Pool? Wonder no longer as superb tips are here to help you master this most master-worthy of cue games.
How to play better Straight Pool? Wonder no longer as superb tips are here to help you master this most master-worthy of cue games.
Pool Trick Shots
One of the most classic pool trick shots. This one is pretty--pretty ugly, that is to say.
One of the most classic pool trick shots. This one is pretty--pretty ugly, that is to say.
Choose a Tip Material
Pool cue tips range in hardness and widths besides material composition. Learn what pool professionals consider in this, their most important investment--the cue tip!
Pool cue tips range in hardness and widths besides material composition. Learn what pool professionals consider in this, their most important investment--the cue tip!
How Do Top Pros Practice Pool
How do top pros practice pool? Jump in for more of Donny and Matt's 8-Ball Debates...
How do top pros practice pool? Jump in for more of Donny and Matt's 8-Ball Debates...
Proper Cue Stick Grip
It's time again to look at the proper cue stick grip--here it is in words and pictures along with pro secrets of grip.
It's time again to look at the proper cue stick grip--here it is in words and pictures along with pro secrets of grip.
Billiards Skills
Get your billiards skills under control and avoid these awful mistakes. Learn from the best, the tools of the top pool pros and teachers.
Get your billiards skills under control and avoid these awful mistakes. Learn from the best, the tools of the top pool pros and teachers.
Bank Shot
how to make a bank shot or any kick shot using simple calculations.
how to make a bank shot or any kick shot using simple calculations.
Break Shot
We just reviewed technique for break shots with the cue ball close to the rail. Let’s consider some of my keys to a better break from along the head string.
We just reviewed technique for break shots with the cue ball close to the rail. Let’s consider some of my keys to a better break from along the head string.
How To Improve Your Pool Stroke
How to improve your pool stroke - why, use golf equipment, of course.
How to improve your pool stroke - why, use golf equipment, of course.
Aiming Pool
I'm going to tell you the real story on aiming pool. This is the pro method to ensure better play at billiards.
I'm going to tell you the real story on aiming pool. This is the pro method to ensure better play at billiards.
The Table Slate Is Key
A quality slate is key to a level, enjoyable playing surface.
A quality slate is key to a level, enjoyable playing surface.
Hot Women Of Pool
The Rack Starz new calendar launched high at Amsterdam Billiards this month. Check out our exclusive reports.
The Rack Starz new calendar launched high at Amsterdam Billiards this month. Check out our exclusive reports.
Pool Cue Tips
A shameless request for info on pool cue tips becomes a pool cue tips compendium.
A shameless request for info on pool cue tips becomes a pool cue tips compendium.
8 Ball Pool
Playing 8-Ball pool requires tenacity and strategy far more than luck. Here's a solid tip entry in the game pitting solids against stripes.
Playing 8-Ball pool requires tenacity and strategy far more than luck. Here's a solid tip entry in the game pitting solids against stripes.
Six Ball
6-ball provides a quick test on pool. Rack 'em, scatter 'em and run 'em--but will you find Six Ball easier or tougher than running a game of Nine Ball? Check it out.
6-ball provides a quick test on pool. Rack 'em, scatter 'em and run 'em--but will you find Six Ball easier or tougher than running a game of Nine Ball? Check it out.
Predator Cues
Choosing between Predator cues and other quality cues is like deciding between Peking Duck and Russian caviar. So here's how to decide.
Choosing between Predator cues and other quality cues is like deciding between Peking Duck and Russian caviar. So here's how to decide.
How To Play Pool Like The Pros
How to play pool like the pros, using my ultimate tips and techniques.
How to play pool like the pros, using my ultimate tips and techniques.
How To Run A Rack
How to run a rack in step-by-step photos detailing the four kinds of balls that come up in an 8-Ball or 9-Ball rack.
How to run a rack in step-by-step photos detailing the four kinds of balls that come up in an 8-Ball or 9-Ball rack.
Pool Draw
Adding pool draw is easy if you follow my 3-step recipe.
Adding pool draw is easy if you follow my 3-step recipe.
Pool Lesson
A quality today. How to absolutely control ball speed using grip force... flow the stroke even better, letting the cue stick pass lightly through your hand...
A quality today. How to absolutely control ball speed using grip force... flow the stroke even better, letting the cue stick pass lightly through your hand...
Hand Throws the Cue
The wrist may make six distinct movements. Is one or more of them required in a pool stroke?
The wrist may make six distinct movements. Is one or more of them required in a pool stroke?
Custom Cue
“Which brand or maker of custom cue should I try and buy, Matt?” is heard at many of my pool lessons. Here's what I say...
“Which brand or maker of custom cue should I try and buy, Matt?” is heard at many of my pool lessons. Here's what I say...
Slip Stroke Technique
The slip stroke is a technique that many players do on an subconscious basis. You may want to experiment to add it to your game.
The slip stroke is a technique that many players do on an subconscious basis. You may want to experiment to add it to your game.
Pool Games
7-ball is one of the pool games taking America and the world by storm. Learn the rules and subtleties of this fabulous game.
7-ball is one of the pool games taking America and the world by storm. Learn the rules and subtleties of this fabulous game.
Kick Shot Pool
A kick shot in pool is the annoying little bugger where you need to drive the cue ball to a cushion before it rebounds to strike your target object ball. The pool kick shot can be converted to a deadly weapon of pool skill—you'll look like a pool hustler--if only you have a simple way to aim them with precision.
A kick shot in pool is the annoying little bugger where you need to drive the cue ball to a cushion before it rebounds to strike your target object ball. The pool kick shot can be converted to a deadly weapon of pool skill—you'll look like a pool hustler--if only you have a simple way to aim them with precision.
Pool Game
The best advice for your pool game are these secrets of the pool stroke, found nowhere else online. Build your pool game now.
The best advice for your pool game are these secrets of the pool stroke, found nowhere else online. Build your pool game now.
Pool Table Room Size
A reader's question about a bargain pool table leads to a response on pool table room size.
A reader's question about a bargain pool table leads to a response on pool table room size.
9-Ball Break
I teach you a 9-Ball break with amazing results.
I teach you a 9-Ball break with amazing results.
Using Pool
You shouldn't be using pool cues to break--if you value them highly. Break cues are meant to offer speed, not mass, to the pool shooter for the open break. Consider options carefully before making your purchase.
You shouldn't be using pool cues to break--if you value them highly. Break cues are meant to offer speed, not mass, to the pool shooter for the open break. Consider options carefully before making your purchase.
Pool Tricks
One of a number of easy but show-stopping pool trick shots from About.com.
One of a number of easy but show-stopping pool trick shots from About.com.
Willie Mosconi
The All-Time Pool Legend lives on in the hearts of those who know Willie's Game.
The All-Time Pool Legend lives on in the hearts of those who know Willie's Game.
Stroke Trainer
The CueTrack stroke trainer as invented by Tony Mattina is a powerful billiards improvement device. We give it a full review in this article.
The CueTrack stroke trainer as invented by Tony Mattina is a powerful billiards improvement device. We give it a full review in this article.
Pool Table Rails
Three little tricks you can use to test pool table rails on a new or used table you seek to purchase or play upon. Show them how cool you can be at the poolroom even before play begins.
Three little tricks you can use to test pool table rails on a new or used table you seek to purchase or play upon. Show them how cool you can be at the poolroom even before play begins.
Easy Pool Trick Shot
A delightful and easy pool trick shot, this is worth just a few minutes' practice before you set out to dazzle your audience.
A delightful and easy pool trick shot, this is worth just a few minutes' practice before you set out to dazzle your audience.
The Classic Pool Grip
The heart and soul of pool flow from an accurate hold on the cuestick. But how to make the classic pool grip, a thing of function and power? Take a look at a typical pool grip from several different viewpoints.
The heart and soul of pool flow from an accurate hold on the cuestick. But how to make the classic pool grip, a thing of function and power? Take a look at a typical pool grip from several different viewpoints.
Best Billiards Tables
Why skimp when the best billiards tables may be in use for decades, even a century, in your home or poolroom?
Why skimp when the best billiards tables may be in use for decades, even a century, in your home or poolroom?
Billiards Game
Play catch, a billiards game, and learn one of the most deadly pool strokes in mere minutes.
Play catch, a billiards game, and learn one of the most deadly pool strokes in mere minutes.
Cut Shots
Continuing our multi-article aim primer, detailing every method top players use to play cut shots successfully in pool and billiards. Part of a multi-article series.
Continuing our multi-article aim primer, detailing every method top players use to play cut shots successfully in pool and billiards. Part of a multi-article series.
Take off cue varnish
Some find the slick finish manufacturers add to their cue shafts distracting during play. Learn how to remove and replace a cue shaft's finish.
Some find the slick finish manufacturers add to their cue shafts distracting during play. Learn how to remove and replace a cue shaft's finish.
Win Pool
The “calm and win” is the method I am diligently teaching my students now to win pool more often. The tautology has been proven, if you are what I term actively relaxed over the shot, you will surely play your best.
The “calm and win” is the method I am diligently teaching my students now to win pool more often. The tautology has been proven, if you are what I term actively relaxed over the shot, you will surely play your best.
Understand Cue Ball Angles
Understand Cue Ball Angles, The Best Billiards Tips
Understand Cue Ball Angles, The Best Billiards Tips
The Best Pool Aim Systems
There is an ever-growing family of aim methods that begin with the full line or some edge-to-edge or edge-to-center line followed with pivoting the cue stick or body from that line to determine the final shot line. Their complexity can be astounding and off-putting.
There is an ever-growing family of aim methods that begin with the full line or some edge-to-edge or edge-to-center line followed with pivoting the cue stick or body from that line to determine the final shot line. Their complexity can be astounding and off-putting.
Drawing the cue ball stylishly
Here is an exhaustive list of draw pool stroke techniques every billiards player will want to aid them with the sometimes challenging draw stroke.
Here is an exhaustive list of draw pool stroke techniques every billiards player will want to aid them with the sometimes challenging draw stroke.
English Mistakes
Avoid costly english mistakes with these secrets of sidespin. Put pro and hustler knowledge to work for you now.
Avoid costly english mistakes with these secrets of sidespin. Put pro and hustler knowledge to work for you now.
Billiards Training
Your billiards training towards excellence continues today. We'll talk soon about a straight aimed cue stick that is aimed at the wrong target.
Your billiards training towards excellence continues today. We'll talk soon about a straight aimed cue stick that is aimed at the wrong target.
Pool Room Space
Clear pool room space on all four sides of the table for standing and shooting in comfort, and also...
Clear pool room space on all four sides of the table for standing and shooting in comfort, and also...
Billiards Player
Listen, billiards player! Here's where to hold the fingers (four hand designs/shapes).
Listen, billiards player! Here's where to hold the fingers (four hand designs/shapes).
Dominant Eye Pool
Does the dominant eye play a pivotal role in pool? I say it doesn't, here's why and here's how to best aim in pool and billiards.
Does the dominant eye play a pivotal role in pool? I say it doesn't, here's why and here's how to best aim in pool and billiards.
Behind The Cue Ball
From the player’s perspective, if the cue ball were to be stroked along the full line it will impact the 2-ball as a “full hit”. With eyes watching from behind the cue ball in the stance, the cue ball will fully eclipse the sphere of the 2-ball at impact...
From the player’s perspective, if the cue ball were to be stroked along the full line it will impact the 2-ball as a “full hit”. With eyes watching from behind the cue ball in the stance, the cue ball will fully eclipse the sphere of the 2-ball at impact...
Force Draw Shots
The force draw shot is exciting and wild, yet controlled. The beginner has something to dream for--the ability to place massive spin onto the cue ball.
The force draw shot is exciting and wild, yet controlled. The beginner has something to dream for--the ability to place massive spin onto the cue ball.
Pool Leagues
This list of established pool leagues comes with my recommendations for improving local and national billiards and pool leagues.
This list of established pool leagues comes with my recommendations for improving local and national billiards and pool leagues.
Cue Laser
If you've dreamt of owning a cue laser, dream no more! Ted Schulze's cue laser aimer, the Laser Stroke, is ideal. Read our full review...
If you've dreamt of owning a cue laser, dream no more! Ted Schulze's cue laser aimer, the Laser Stroke, is ideal. Read our full review...
Build Pool Table
How to build a pool table? We lead you to super resources to build a pool table, here at About.com.
How to build a pool table? We lead you to super resources to build a pool table, here at About.com.
Crushing the Open Break Shot
Crushing a pool break in billiards is simple when you learn how. Here are super tips on breaking with style.
Crushing a pool break in billiards is simple when you learn how. Here are super tips on breaking with style.
The Cue Ball
Aiming the cue ball using instinct vs. Fraction Aim... continuing our aim primer where every different method used by the pros to aim object balls is illustrated. You may catch up on past reads first if you wish.
Aiming the cue ball using instinct vs. Fraction Aim... continuing our aim primer where every different method used by the pros to aim object balls is illustrated. You may catch up on past reads first if you wish.
Pro bank methods
I’d like to explain to you why it is that pro pool shooters often smack bank shots to the pockets at great speed and with a dash of english, too. How would you bank the striped ball to the opposite side pocket? You might want to review my simple-to-aim bank method for a few moments first.
I’d like to explain to you why it is that pro pool shooters often smack bank shots to the pockets at great speed and with a dash of english, too. How would you bank the striped ball to the opposite side pocket? You might want to review my simple-to-aim bank method for a few moments first.
Dead Stroke
Like little else, pool players want to achieve " dead stroke " as often as possible at the tables. Dead
Like little else, pool players want to achieve " dead stroke " as often as possible at the tables. Dead
Sneaky Petes
A sneaky pete cue is what drives some of the pool fans to distraction. Sneaky petes are the hustler's tool, the player's bane. What are the possible origins of this billiards threat?
A sneaky pete cue is what drives some of the pool fans to distraction. Sneaky petes are the hustler's tool, the player's bane. What are the possible origins of this billiards threat?
Cue Dimensions
What are the typical weights and sizes in a custom cue? Which choices are right for your game?
What are the typical weights and sizes in a custom cue? Which choices are right for your game?
The Hustler
The Hustler is certainly the finest film on pool ever with an array of stars and fabulous writing and cinematography. Paul Newman and Jackie Gleason turn in powerful, convincing performances.
The Hustler is certainly the finest film on pool ever with an array of stars and fabulous writing and cinematography. Paul Newman and Jackie Gleason turn in powerful, convincing performances.
On The Object Ball
and you'll score more than ever. Get back to the billiards game you owned when you played your best.
and you'll score more than ever. Get back to the billiards game you owned when you played your best.
Cue Weight
Seeking the Holy Grail of sticks by cue weight and cue length is a pastime for millions of players--but the real news is inside our story--how to find the true pool grail.
Seeking the Holy Grail of sticks by cue weight and cue length is a pastime for millions of players--but the real news is inside our story--how to find the true pool grail.
Safe Plays
I'm all for pounding the break balls in during an open game. But softly also does it, even for old favorites like Eight Ball and Nine Ball.
I'm all for pounding the break balls in during an open game. But softly also does it, even for old favorites like Eight Ball and Nine Ball.
The Mental Plane
The last frontier for pool man to explore is the mental plane. A look at why pool's greatest have stopped thinking.
The last frontier for pool man to explore is the mental plane. A look at why pool's greatest have stopped thinking.
Pool Throw
Pool throw refers to the physical act of billiard balls clinging together long enough to ruin--or cinch--a shot. We'll show you how to use pool throw to do either in this article.
Pool throw refers to the physical act of billiard balls clinging together long enough to ruin--or cinch--a shot. We'll show you how to use pool throw to do either in this article.
Pacing Beats Chasing
The "Home Again" cut shot is the single most important technique in billiards to teach the correct stroke.
The "Home Again" cut shot is the single most important technique in billiards to teach the correct stroke.
Pool Balls
Pool balls can vary, surprisingly even on the same table in a set.
Pool balls can vary, surprisingly even on the same table in a set.
Last Pocket Eights
Take on 8-ball with a difference with this often money-saving game of Last Pocket Eights.
Take on 8-ball with a difference with this often money-saving game of Last Pocket Eights.
Thinking inside the box
The orange line bisecting this box from the center of the pocket opening through the middle of the 6-ball will indicate the contact point where the cue ball is to strike and it is extremely important in pool that...
The orange line bisecting this box from the center of the pocket opening through the middle of the 6-ball will indicate the contact point where the cue ball is to strike and it is extremely important in pool that...
The Pit And The Pendulum
"The Pit And The Pendulum" is not only a popular Poe title but describes one of the key issues facing
"The Pit And The Pendulum" is not only a popular Poe title but describes one of the key issues facing
Ghost Ball Vs. Contact Point Aim
Contact point systems are simpler and more effective than ghost ball systems. As illustrated in the diagram, the player marks the contact point on the object ball with an early terminus to the aim line as shown.
Contact point systems are simpler and more effective than ghost ball systems. As illustrated in the diagram, the player marks the contact point on the object ball with an early terminus to the aim line as shown.
Play Pool
Want to play pool like the masters? Use these simple techniques to "suck the rock with massive draw" and play pool right.
Want to play pool like the masters? Use these simple techniques to "suck the rock with massive draw" and play pool right.
8-Ball Break Shot
Improve your 8-Ball break shot. Do these tips apply to your game as to the reader whose questions I answer for a more powerful 8-Ball break?
Improve your 8-Ball break shot. Do these tips apply to your game as to the reader whose questions I answer for a more powerful 8-Ball break?
Parallel Aiming
Note that although this has been called “the parallel aim method”, it is actually a plan to bring the edges of the pool balls together...
Note that although this has been called “the parallel aim method”, it is actually a plan to bring the edges of the pool balls together...
Pool Shot Technique
Head, eyes, chin, fingers—Is your stick pointed at the target accurately for positive pool shot technique? Are you sure?
Head, eyes, chin, fingers—Is your stick pointed at the target accurately for positive pool shot technique? Are you sure?
IdeasPool
Lacking ideas for your next set of pool stunts at table? Try Matt's "Throw The Cue Through" shots. As
Lacking ideas for your next set of pool stunts at table? Try Matt's "Throw The Cue Through" shots. As
Draw: Level vs. Jab Stroke
Interestingly, there are two basic types of draw strokes that can be learned, and one may fit your pool skills better than the other.
Interestingly, there are two basic types of draw strokes that can be learned, and one may fit your pool skills better than the other.
Magic 8-Ball
It's time for a little Magic 8-Ball move of the table position! A great game played great.
It's time for a little Magic 8-Ball move of the table position! A great game played great.
Pool Tables 101
What precise details do you need to look for in a new or used pool table to get the best value? How can you repair and re-felt your table accurately on a budget? What key questions should you ask of any pool table dealer or installer you shop?
What precise details do you need to look for in a new or used pool table to get the best value? How can you repair and re-felt your table accurately on a budget? What key questions should you ask of any pool table dealer or installer you shop?
The 45 Degree Stance
Just bending over does not a pool stance make.
Just bending over does not a pool stance make.
Break Tips
Looking for break tips? Some of the best break tips are recorded in this unique article.
Looking for break tips? Some of the best break tips are recorded in this unique article.
Efren Reyes
Efren Reyes does it again! While this does not qualify as a "basic" pool or billiards technique, it represents
Efren Reyes does it again! While this does not qualify as a "basic" pool or billiards technique, it represents
Spin Banks
Spin banks are a deadly weapon in light of the right instructions. They will make all your pool banks easier in less than a minute's practice.
Spin banks are a deadly weapon in light of the right instructions. They will make all your pool banks easier in less than a minute's practice.
Bank Shots
My guide shows you how to make many more bank shots than you do now, and you can take that to the pool bank.
My guide shows you how to make many more bank shots than you do now, and you can take that to the pool bank.
Ball Run
Should you consistently go for the big ball run in 8-Ball? Here's why not and what to do instead.
Should you consistently go for the big ball run in 8-Ball? Here's why not and what to do instead.
Three Ball
Three Ball is a terrific little game that looks easier than it is and provides some interesting wrinkles. See more about gambling and playing this wondrous pool game.
Three Ball is a terrific little game that looks easier than it is and provides some interesting wrinkles. See more about gambling and playing this wondrous pool game.
Pool Sticks
A reader mentions the possible differences between wood cue sticks and fiberglass, which is making a splash. We take a quick and closer look.
A reader mentions the possible differences between wood cue sticks and fiberglass, which is making a splash. We take a quick and closer look.
How To Play Great Pool
If you want to learn how to play great pool and billiards, you ought to banish these myths from your game.
If you want to learn how to play great pool and billiards, you ought to banish these myths from your game.
How Billiards Experts Stroke The Cue Stick
How billiards experts stroke the cue stick is less a matter of debate than of fact. I give 17 reasons why every good billiards player shoots a certain way.
How billiards experts stroke the cue stick is less a matter of debate than of fact. I give 17 reasons why every good billiards player shoots a certain way.