Quote:
Originally Posted by Big Man
One shot that has always been impossible for me is when a ball is on the rail.
One part that is always hard for me is when the cue ball is on the rail and the ball I want to hit is on the other end of the table. Any suggestions?
For rail shots (where the object ball is on or very close to the rail) make sure to hit softly. Not only does the object ball go off on the proper angle according to where the cue ball contacts it, but it also travels a small amount in the same direction that the cue ball is traveling before contact. This is called "throw" and the amount of travel depends on how fast the cue ball is moving. This actually applies to all shots, but is especially noticeable on the rail.
This means that some long shots down the rail will be nearly or completely impossible depending on your angle, as the speed necessary to get the object ball to the pocket would also force it into the rail.
(I'm kinda new too, anyone with more knowledge than me please feel free to correct me!)
As far as cue ball on the rail + long shots, both of these factors just up the difficulty for any shot. Practice makes perfect, but these are the kinda shots pros will use as safety shots if necessary - they are difficult for everyone.
Last edited by tagtastic; 02-27-2013 at 12:39 AM.