Choosing The Best Shot

Imagine this; You are the captain or coach of an 8-ball league, and your lower skilled player is shooting solids.

Choosing The Best Shot - Billiard Shot Planning For The Novice

It is likely that 99% of the beginner billiard players out there are going to shoot at the orange five ball in the situation pictured above, simply because it is an easier shot. Most beginner players tend to automatically look for the easiest shot, without considering what their next shot will look like. Unfortunately, at least 80% of novice coaches will allow them shoot for the five ball in the corner pocket.
The advanced player can see clearly that the more appropriate shot in this illustration is the two ball in the side pocket. It is a slightly tougher shot, but if they can make it, then the game is essentially over. The odds against getting snookered from the five ball are relatively slim. If this is taken in to consideration, and plays out as expected, they pocket the two, then either slow-roll the five or shoot a stop-shot at it, and then finish the game by putting the eight in the corner pocket.
Unfortunately, this is almost never what happens when the novice player is allowed to shoot at the five ball. What usually happens is this:

• Player makes the five in the corner.
• Player makes the two in the side.
• Player is completely lost on the eight and uses their timeout to get help with a shot that they will likely never make.
• Player loses the game when the opponent pockets their two remaining balls, followed by the eight via an easy down table shot to the corner pocket.

Too many times, coaches are instructing the wrong thing. Beginning players can not be told how to make a shot in the middle of a game. Shot making is something that should be worked on when they are practicing. Beginning players can, however, be shown a little bit of common sense and strategy. It's up to their coaches to show them, but too often I've seen coaches sitting on the sidelines during situations like this.

With the collaboration of Dave Siltz.

continue reading

Billiard Stance Tips

Billiard Stance Tips

The Pattern of the Number 3 in Billiards:
Three Fundamentals:

1. Head/Eyes= Aim
2. Hands/Cue = Stroke
3. Pelvis = Stability

Three Fundamentals:

1. Head/Eyes/ guiding Hands/Cue/ over Pelvis into Stance
2. Head, Eyes, Elbow, Eye-of-Grip, Bridge, Cue, all in Line
3. Sighting, Stroking, Shooting

The Break

Channel swinging elbow power and body weight transference from right to left foot through the bridge hand / Hit the cue ball with a flat cue / Swing with the elbow in line and a loose grip on the cue, tightening on impact / Hit the dead center of the cue ball at maximum cue speed.

The Head

The head is so important. Your head is where your eyes are. The reason I think people miss most often is not because they fail to cue the ball where they want it but rather that they fail to sight the shot correctly in the first place.

With the collaboration of Matthew West.

continue reading

The Pool Bridge

Regarding the bridge that forms the left hand should be noted that there are different types of bridge, each appropriate for one type of runs.

Bridge Current:

It is the most widely used is to put your fingers in the form of lock. With this type of bridge failures that we make are related to the shooting in which the sole of the heel strikes the cue ball through the middle or top but are minor.

A variant of the bridge is to collect the finger under the palm of the hand. This bridge is indicated for moves to retrogression.

Damped for balls, the balls drawn and carom shots, used the bridge with an open hand . To do this correctly:

Place the hand well extended, fingers spread, on the board.

Shrink fingers holding the tips of your fingers on the mat firmly and fingers spread.

Aim slightly with thumbs up, so it forms a V with your index finger.

continue reading

Pool Foundation

HANDLE:

To play billiards, the first thing that we face even before approaching the table is the action of taking the cue. Actually have a proper grip is very simple, it's almost harder to get it wrong but beginners often we find that grip the cue with the yolks of two or three fingers, as if afraid to break it. The heel should be held with all the hand firmly, but with relaxation, ie without drowning but to dance in his hand. The height of the hub to which we will take it depend on the position of the body (particularly the shoulders) and we shall see.

BRIDGE:

For a beginner it is easier to make a bridge open one closed, and you can play perfectly and with the first best level so we will concentrate on it. We must be clear that what we seek is support for the cue as compact as possible. Let's see how.

The first thing to do is put your left hand wide open and all the fingers wide apart, naturally on the cloth, with all playing the same palm and fingers up and down the right with respect to the line of fire we want to accomplish. Once this is done we just need to put together your thumb and index finger (the thumb should point up what we can) and cupping his hand as if to throw up our knuckles, so that the palm is separated from the cloth and only fingers and the fleshy parts with the wrist touching it. The block will slide into the 'v' formed between the thumb and index finger knuckle. The amount of lift that we give the knuckles will serve to attack the white ball above or below (do we need to do this more on that later).

The distance at which we put our bridge relative to the cue ball will depend on how much speed you want to print the shot, and we shall see, in principle we can reference some 15 cm.

BODY POSITION

• Legs

To place our body properly at the table, our feet should be open about 45 degrees and the left foot should be in line with our shooting, but as none have the flexibility of a gymnast twelve years to rotate slightly left foot inward (few degrees). Our legs should be slightly bent and your weight should rest perfectly on both feet, with no more weight in any of them, or in our heels or balls of same. We must look for complete stability. The weight should plummet to the ground below us, and this is the feeling that the player should have. Thus if we give a little push in any direction, we should be able to maintain our position (without falling) without effort.

• The Trunk

Now comes the delicate, especially for the beginner ... But the truth is that many players of good level neglect this point is crucial. This is the trunk, or 'how to get off' to the table.

The most common error, as shown in the photo, between novice and more experienced players, is to lower your torso to the table. This causes the following problems, also common:

There is no room to move the block (this is you too close to our chest, to the point of beating us when we strike a punching ball with some force).

The right shoulder is not on cue, with which, or the line loses arm or elbow is out, so we lose also throw line (discussed later), and our righteousness at the entrance or attack on the white ball is harmed.

The trunk should download it right on the shot. This will force us to locate definitely the more left feet than it would if we go down to the table. The correct position of the foot the control go to practice, but the secret remains the stability of body weight. The decline in the photo on the right. Compare especially the tilt of the spine in both photos.

Certainly we are not machines and put one arm out of joint here, a leg there and head into the next table but the point is important to take care with the greatest zeal for the improvement in space, righteousness, and attack quality (yes, yes, in that order!) will be huge.

At this point we get a question: how far should be our head, our chin, taco?

In the pool pocket the object ball becomes, apart from one of our goals when we learn, a prerequisite if we want to continue playing and not sitting in the chair to look to play our adversary. And improving ball stage is indispensable, especially for shorter or more balls away from the pocket.

It has been demonstrated and it is logical to aim better when the distance between the shaft of the cue and our chin is smaller. So that is what we try when we play our game: stick your chin to the shaft of the cue as much as possible to the point ... hum ... almost touching at times of filing and having your head on straight arrow.

I do not mean that you can not reach a great level playing a little taller but it is true that the common pattern in American pool players, and especially in snooker, where the table is larger and more pockets small, is playing with your chin tucked, even literally, taco.

We have to feel like stretching, how men seek to be more in line of fire (although they do not become pregnant, the line really form the head, well attached to the left shoulder and right shoulder). Of course we will not get it perfect the first day because the body has to get used to stretch, but ideally will feel stretched a little more each day, that do not force too much and hurt us.

After all this feeling should be the cue to the right side of the body, and not in the body actually.

RIGHT ARM:

If we followed all the above steps correctly, it will be easy to 'drop' right arm in place ... at least in theory. Let's leave it will be easier to do well if your body position is correct. The arm will be in line with the cue and our elbow, forearm and wrist should naturally fall to the ground so that they are in the line of fire. The doll will drop the wad under its own weight so that it matches the forearm bone.

The position of the forearm to the floor should be for any shot, perpendicular to the ground just at the moment of impact. This guarantees a comfortable journey while filing the route of entry will also be comfortable, and it will attack the white at the time in which the arm can print high quality to our attack.


THE SHOT LINE:



Once all the steps followed to properly position the line of fire should be formed by:

* The cue

* Chin

* The right shoulder

* The right arm

* The right elbow

* The right forearm

* The right wrist

Of course nobody is going to ensure a perfectly straight entry and not to fail or a ball if we meet all these requirements, but will get options to increase significantly.

continue reading

Artistic Pool Rules

ART. 1 GAME SYSTEM

To hold a "competition" will be required at least two grand billiards match.
The matches to the phases before and promotion, KO play direct match is best of 5 sets.
The final phase is played by 2 Pools of 4 players by league system between them and also the best of 5 sets.
Will be given as winner of the set the player scored more points in it, whether the dispute over the set of points the difference between the two players out and reach for a player, the set will be terminated.
The composition of the figures are integrated in each set and that set the whole program, is established by the CEB
Prior to the start of the competition by the Sports Directorate of the test material, the lottery balls to be played in each pool.

ART. 2 PARTY

Both players start the game against the short rail pulling contrary, winning the one closest to the short rail arrival. The winner will choose to leave or they do the opposite, start the second set as he has not done in the first and so on until the end of the game
Each game is continued with the set that comes next to him who threw up the draw start. The order of the sets is as follows:
Every player will have 5 minutes of making contact with the material immediately before the first game, but for the rest of the competition this time will be reduced to 3 minutes, the players will be impaired in these figures run training program as well as playing Massa or fouettes.
It will not be allowed to play with the sleeves rolled up, except for those figures that may exist impediments to run correctly.
If a player is warned of the possibility of an error in marking the figure is running, you can request your check, be certain his views and if you have run some test, they will be canceled again have three attempts, the other player, if you have run and the figure in question will not be able to repeat the play. After the execution of a figure there will be no possibility of any claims.

ART. 3 POINTS

Simply use in games played within the pools, with a win, 1 point match.

ART. 4 TIE POINTS IN A SET

In cases in one set, both players finished level on points, will continue to the next by Tie Break System (SIDS), whereby when one player fails a figure, having held the contrary, lose the set.

ART. 5 TIES IN THE POOLS (TIE)

In cases where two players appear to match level on points within a group, classification is obtained by applying the following criteria:
1. Increased percentage, calculated to the hundredth.
2. The winner of the match between those involved.

When this match tie points occur between more than two players, the following shall apply:
1. Increased percentage, calculated to the hundredth.
2. Tie Break all the players involved.

ART. 6 DEVELOPMENT OF TIE BREAK BETWEEN 3 PLAYERS

Set to play through the tiebreaker will be decided by lot.
The order of play of the tied players will be decided by lot before starting the Tie Break, continuing to dispute the figures below, if any, on a rotating basis.
All players roll the same figure, failure is eliminated, assuming that the other two made.
Where they are two players who fail the same figure, the winner will be entering into that transaction, the two losers must continue to play including the tiebreaker until one of them fails, the other a figure making it.
If all three fail to perform or the figure will continue to the next.

Artistic Tricks Caroms Three Bands



Amazing 2 players pool Trick Shots with Mike Massey & Florian "Venom" Kohler



My favorite Pool Videos: Venom Trickshots

continue reading

Snooker Rules

Type of Game: International or "English" snooker is the most widely played form of snooker around the world. The popularity of this snooker game is comparable to the popularity of online roulette in the casino world. It is generally played on 6'x12' English billiard tables, with cushions that are more narrow than on pocket billiard tables and which curve smoothly into the pocket openings. 5 x 10 and snooker tables of even smaller playing dimensions may be used for the game. On a 6 x 12 snooker (English billiard) table the playing area within the cushion faces shall measure 11' 8.5" x 5' 10" with a tolerance on both dimensions of +/-0.5". The height of the table is measured from the floor to the top of the cushion rail, and the height shall measure 34" with an allowable variance of +/-0.5".

Players: 2

Balls Used: Set of Snooker balls: fifteen object balls that are not numbered and are solid red (called reds), six object balls of other colors that are not numbered (called colors) and a cue ball (called the white ball). Point values for object balls: red-1, yellow-2, green-3, brown-4, blue-5, pink-6, black-7. In International Snooker the balls used are 2-1/16" diameter.

The Rack: Play begins with the balls placed as in the diagram above. The pink is spotted on the Pyramid Spot. The apex ball of the triangle of reds is racked as close as possible to the pink without touching it.

Baulk-line and Baulk: A straight line drawn 29" from the face of the bottom cushion and parallel to it is called the Baulk-line and the intervening space termed the Baulk.

The Half Circle: The Half Circle is a semi-circle described in Baulk with its center at the middle of the Baulk-line and with a radius of 11.5". When the striker has cue ball in hand within the Half Circle he may place the base of the cue ball anywhere on the line or within the Half Circle, and may use his hand or any part of his cue (including the tip) to position the cue ball--as long as it is judged he is not attempting to play a stroke.

Object of the Game: To score a greater number of points than opponent.

Scoring: Points are scored in two ways: players are awarded points for fouls by the opponent (see Penalties For Fouls below), and by legally potting reds or colors. Each legally potted red ball has a point value of one; each legally potted color ball has a point value as indicated (Balls Used above). A frame ends when all balls have been potted, following the Rules of Play; if, however, only the black (7) ball is left on the table, the frame ends with the first score or foul. If the players' scores are equal after that scoring, the black is spotted on its original position and the layers lag or draw lots for the choice of playing at, or assigning opponent to play at, the black ball with the cue ball in hand within the Half Circle, first score or foul then ends the frame.

Opening Break: Players lag or draw lots for choice of break in the opening frame. In a match format the players alternate the break in subsequent frames. Starting player has cue ball in hand within the Half Circle. He must cause the cue ball to contact a red ball. It is not necessary to send a ball to a rail or into a pocket. Failure to meet this requirement is a foul (see Penalties For Fouls) A foul is scored and--with all fouls--the incoming player has a choice of (1) accepting the table and becoming the striker, or (2) requiring the offender to break again.

Rules of Play

Every game has a certain amount of rules to enable the game to flow smoothly. Even games of chance such as bingo require many rules. Snooker is a complicated game that has multiple rules. We have laid them out here for your review:

1. A legally potted ball entitles the striker to continue at the table until he fails to legally pot a ball.

2. On all shots, the striker must comply with the appropriate requirements of Rules of Play 5 and 6. It is not necessary to cause the cue ball or an object ball to contact a cushion or drop in a pocket after the cue ball has contacted a legal object ball (ball on). Failure to contact a legal object ball first is a foul.

3. As long as reds are on the table, the incoming striker (player taking his first stroke of an inning) always has a red as his legal object ball (ball on).

4. Any red balls potted on a legal shot are legally potted balls; the striker need not call any particular red ball(s), pocket(s) or details of how the pot will be played.

5. When the striker has a red ball as his "ball on" (legal object ball), he must cause the cue ball's first contact to be with a red ball. Failure to do so is a foul (See Penalties For Fouls)

6. After the striker has scored a red ball initially, his next legal object is a color, and as long as reds remain on the table he must alternate his play between reds and colors (though within each group he may play a ball of his choice). When reds remain on the table and a color is his object, the striker must (a) designate prior to stroking which color ball is his object (that specific color is then his "ball on"), and (b) cause the cue ball's first contact with a ball to be with that colored ball. If the striker fails to meet these requirements, it is a foul (See Penalties For Fouls).

7. If the striker's ball on is a red, and he pots a color, it is a foul.

8. If the striker's ball on is a color, and he pots any other ball, it is a foul.

9. Jump shots are illegal in International Snooker. It is a foul if the striker intentionally causes the cue ball to jump (rise from the bed of the table) by any means, if the jump is an effort to clear an obstructing ball.

10. While reds remain on the table, each potted color is spotted prior to the next stroke (see Spotting Balls below for spotting rules). After a color has been spotted, if the striker plays while that ball is incorrectly spotted (and opponent or referee calls it before two such plays have been taken), the shot taken is a foul. If the striker plays two strokes after such error without its being announced by opponent or referee, he is free of penalty and continues playing and scoring normally as though the spotting error simply had not occurred. The striker is responsible for ensuring that all balls are correctly spotted before striking. If the striker plays while a ball(s) that should be on the table is not a foul may be awarded whenever the foul is discovered during the striker's inning. Any scoring prior to the discovery of the foul will count.

11. When no reds remain on the table, striker's balls on become the colors, in ascending numerical order (2,3,4,5,6,7). These legally potted colors are not spotted after each is potted; they remain off the table. (The black (7) ball is an exception in the case of a tie score; see Scoring.)

Illegally Potted Ball: Reds illegally potted are not spotted; they remain off the table. Colors illegally potted are spotted. (See Spotting Balls.)

Object Balls Jumped off the Table: Reds jumped off the table are not spotted and the striker has committed a foul. Colors jumped off the table are spotted and the striker has committed a foul. (See Penalties For Fouls)

Spotting Balls: Reds are never spotted. Colors to be spotted are placed as at the start of the game. If a color's spot is occupied (to mean that to spot it would make it touch a ball), it is placed on the spot of the highest value color that is unoccupied. If all spots are occupied, the color is spotted as close as possible to its original spot on a straight line between its spot and the nearest point on the top (foot) cushion.

Cue Ball after Jumping off the Table: Incoming player has cue ball in hand within the Half Circle. When cue ball is in hand within the Half Circle (except the opening break), there is no restriction (based on position of reds or colors) as to what balls may be played; striker may play at any ball on regardless of where it is on the table.

Touching a Ball: While balls are in play it is a foul if the striker touches any object ball or if the striker touches the cue ball with anything other than the tip during a legal stroke.

Snookered: The cue ball is snookered when a direct stroke in a straight line to any part of every ball on is obstructed by a ball or balls not on. If there is any one ball that is not so obstructed, the cue ball is not snookered. If in-hand within the Half Circle, the cue ball is snookered only if obstructed from all positions on or within the Half Circle. If the cue ball is obstructed by more than one ball, the one nearest to the cue ball is the effective snookering ball.

Angled: The cue ball is angled when a direct stroke in a straight line to any part of every ball on is obstructed by a corner of the cushion. If there is any one ball on that is not so obstructed, the cue ball is not angled. If angled after a foul the referee or player will state "Angled Ball", and the striker has the choice to either (1) play from that position or (2) play from in hand within the Half Circle.

Occupied: A spot is said to be occupied if a ball cannot be placed on it without its touching another ball.

Touching Ball: If the cue ball is touching another ball which is, or can be, on, the referee or player shall state "Touching Ball." Thereafter the striker must play away from it or it is a push stroke (foul). No penalty is incurred for thus playing away if (1) the ball is not on; the ball is on and the striker nominates such ball; or (3) the ball is on and the striker nominates, and first hits, another ball. [If the referee considers that a touching ball has moved through an agency other than the player, it is not a foul.]

Push Stroke: A push stroke is a foul and is made when the tip of the cue remains in contact with the cue ball (1) when the cue ball makes contact with the object ball, or (2) after the cue ball has commenced its forward motion. Provided that where the cue ball and an object ball are almost touching, it shall be deemed a legal stroke if the cue ball hits the finest possible edge of the object ball.

Miss: The striker shall to the best of his ability endeavor to hit the ball on. If the referee considers the rule infringed he shall call foul and a "miss." The incoming player (1) may play the ball(s) as they lie, or (2) may request that the ball(s) be returned to the original position and have the offending player play the stroke again. Note: if the ball on cannot possibly be hit, the striker is judged to be attempting to hit the ball on.

Free Ball: After a foul, if the cue ball is snookered, the referee or player shall state "Free Ball." If the non-offending layer takes the next stroke he may nominate any ball as on. For this stroke, such ball shall be regarded as, and acquire the value of, the ball on. It is a foul should the cue ball fail to first hit, or - except when only the pink and black remain on the table - be snookered by, the free ball. If the "free ball" is potted, is is spotted, and the value of the ball on is scored. if the ball on is potted it is scored. If both the "free ball" and the ball on are potted, only the value of the ball on is scored.

Fouls

If a foul is committed:

1. the player who committed the foul incurs the penalty prescribed (which is added to the opponent's score), and has to play again if requested by the next player. Once such a request has been made it cannot be withdrawn. 2. should more than one foul be committed in the same stroke the highest value penalty shall be incurred. 3. any ball improperly spotted shall remain where positioned, except that if off the table it shall be correctly spotted.

Penalties for Fouls

The following are fouls and incur a penalty of four points or the higher one prescribed:

1. value of the ball on -

by striking:

a) when the balls are still moving from the previous shot. b) the cue ball more than once (double hit). c) without at least one foot on the floor. d) out of turn. e) improperly from in hand within the Half Circle.

by causing:

f) the cue ball to miss all object balls. g) the cue ball to enter a pocket. h) a snooker with free ball. i) a jump shot.

2. value of the ball on or ball concerned -

by causing:

a) a ball not on to enter a pocket. b) the cue ball to first hit a ball not on. c) a push stroke. d) by striking with a ball not correctly spotted. e) by touching a ball with other than the tip of the cue. f) by forcing a ball off the table.

3. value of the ball on or higher value of the two balls by causing the cue ball to hit simultaneously two balls other than two reds or a "free ball" and the ball on.

4. penalty of seven points is incurred if -

the striker

a) after potting a red commits a foul before nominating a color.

b) uses a ball off the table for any purpose.

c) plays at reds in successive strokes.

d) uses as the cue ball any ball other than the white one.

continue reading

Caroms Three Bands Rules

1. Carom tournaments three bands should be governed by the following rules. Any exceptions must be mentioned at the meeting of players before the start of the tournament, which will be discussed and approved by a majority of the participating players. In some cases, exceptions or variations of these rules may be established by the organizers or by the tournament director.

2. A three-band carambola is valid and counted as one point in each of the following cases:
(A) The cue ball hits the first object ball and then hit three or more cushions before contacting the second object ball;
(B) The cue ball hits three or more bands and then contacts with the two object balls;
(C) The cue ball hits a band, then an object ball and then plays two bands or more and then comes into contact with the second object ball;
(D) The cue ball hits two bands, striking the first object ball and then play one or more bands before contacting the second object ball.

3. A count of three bands means three hits against the band. These impacts need to be in three different bands to be valid. The count is valid even if the shooter hit the same band three times or you get three buddies from the band in two different bands as a result of the slingshot effect inferred.

4. Pulling the band to define the output.
(A) Each player selects a ball which is placed on each side of the exit at the head of the table, or the narrow band where is the mark of the table. Each player hits his ball toward the opposite side of the table with enough force to cut back toward the sideline where he started the play, and stop the ball closer to the band will give the player the right to start the game running carambola output.
(B) The ball may well play the long strips of the table, but if both balls in contact, the player with stick and ball with the ball went out of his way and hits the other ball loses the right to exit. Similarly lose "out" if the ball jumps off the table.
(C) The winner of the output has the right "exit" or assign the output to your opponent. It also has the right to choose which ball to start the game (the white or yellow), which will be his ball for the duration of the game.

5. Carambola output.
(A) The opponent's ball is placed at the head point (the point that the second diamond across the width and along the table on top of the table).
(B) The cue ball is placed at a point six inches (15.2 cm) toward the right or the left of the header.
(C) The red ball is placed at the bottom point (the point that the second diamond across the width and along the table on the short rail of the table opposite).

The player taking the kick out with his ball with the intention of hitting the red ball first. If the cue ball first hits the opponent is a foul and the player loses his turn or entrance. In subsequent shots can be attacked on any of the two balls, either on the opponent's ball or the red ball.

6. Fouls completing the turn or player input.
(A) When any of the ball jumps off the table.
(B) When you start shooting while the other balls are in motion.
(C) When you touch any of the balls by hand or any part of the player's clothing or the taco or tisa or any other item or accessory worn by the shooter. In this case the ball will remain in the position left after being fouled.
(D) Where there is a "push" illegal. (This paragraph refers to a specific type of execution results in a lack-called "push" or "drag")
(E) When a "retaqueo" or "double execution". (This paragraph refers to a specific type of execution that determines a fault called "retaqueo" or "double execution")
(F) When the time to throw the player is not making direct contact with the floor.
(G) When the player runs with the ball attached to his opponent.
(H) When the player touches the ball with the cue during the sketch.

7. Any failure caused by outside interference to players should not be charged to the striker. If the balls are moved due to the interference, must be re-positioned as close as possible to its original position and continue to throw the player trying to score the point according to the new position of the balls.

8. Playing the ball from the opponent.
(A) When playing with the wrong ball is a foul and completed the entry of the shooter.
(B) The opponent or the judge or referee of the game can make a fault. The opponent can make a failure before or after the shot, while the judge or referee may only make a failure until the kick has been completed. The offense may be marked at any time during a series or run, but the shooter will be entitled to all items purchased before the shot in which was marked failure.
(C) The player whose turn it is turn will run the play as the balls were left position was marked after the foul.

9. Ball stuck.
(A) If an entry for the cue ball to contact (is attached) with any object balls, the player has the option to shoot in any direction provided it does not hit the ball which is in contact when the execution of the shot, or you can choose the balls in contact are "armed" or placed in their appropriate places.
(B) If an inning ends with the cue ball in contact with the opponent's cue ball or the red ball in contact with the cue of another player, the player has the option to throw to throw in any direction as in the previous paragraph, or you can choose to "arm" or put the ball in contact. The other ball (not attached) must remain in the same place where you are.
(C) The red ball is placed at the point marked contrast to the head of the table, while the shooter's ball is placed at the point marked at the top of the table. Opponent's ball is placed at the point marked in the center of the table.
(D) If the point reserved for the ball to the "arm" is occupied by one of the other balls, the ball arm will be placed at the point usually reserved for the ball takes the place of the ball arm .
(E) The same rules apply when one or several balls jump off the table.

10. When the cue ball is attached to a band, the player can pull the same, but the first contact as a band has not impacted. Subsequent contacts with the same band if they are valid for the counting of bands shot.

11. When the ball shooter, the opponent or the red jump off the table is a foul and the player loses the right to look any further pulling.

12. When the cue ball jumps up and runs over the band and then return to the playing surface, the move is valid and has hit as a band no matter how many times the shooter came into contact with the band. If the shooter runs on two or more bands, each band as a band has reached. If the handle above the band, the shot is considered as "ball jumps," which is a foul and the player forfeits the shot. If the shooter or any of the other two balls touching part of the band, is considered a fault and the termination of the input. If the opponent's ball or the red jumps and runs on the strip without touching the frame, these balls are also considered "in play".

13. No brother should start shooting the balls are not completely stop or when they are still turning as consequence of the effect. If the player throws when balls are in motion, is considered a fault and to the entry of the shooter.

14. If a player "pushes" the cue ball, or if when you pull the cue ball touches twice (with the cue) is a foul and the shooter loses the right to continue shooting even when they enter the carom. A "push" is a shot where the cue remains in contact with the cue ball after the cue ball hits the first target. A double contact can occur when the cue ball is touched or "caulking" twice.

15. All shots where there are "clashes" or "pas pas" are valid, whether the shooter deprive the annotation or to help or contribute to the entry point.

16. The "gotcha" should not necessarily be considered misdemeanors, unless the blunder will become a "retaqueo." If you sign a fluke even though there has been a "blunder", the point counts and the shift of the shooter continues.

17. If in the process of aiming the shooter touches the cue becomes a foul and the player forfeits the shot.

18. A game ends when one of the official players has completed the designated number of points for the game, even if the opponent has had a turn less. If a judge or referee and a pointer, the game's official sewage treatment leaf pointer that is signed by the referee, the scorer and players. The referee and the scorer must also sign the game sheet. Once the loser fima the game sheet, no protest will be considered.

19. If one player is responsible for any interference, is a breach and end the inning. The next player must accept the position of the balls. A player who is not pulling (taking turns) should not distract the opponent with unnecessary movements or noises. If this situation occurs, the referee or tournament official may disqualify the player for unsportsmanlike conduct.

20. If for reasons beyond their control a player can not start a game as the schedule, the game may be postponed if so decided by the tournament director. If a player can not finish a game, the game lost to "forfeit" unless the opponent agrees to Temin game at a time convenient for the management of the tournament. If a player can not return to the tournament, all games are canceled.

21. If a player is disqualified in the middle of a game, lose the game and do not get the point. His opponent is credited with a game won and give it the corresponding number of points as if he had won. If a player is disqualified from the tournament, all games are canceled (complete sets and complete), and the tournament continues as if a player down when starting the tournament. These rules may be changed by the authorities of the tournament.

22. If for reasons beyond their control a player can not start a game, must notify in advance to the tournament director to allow you to replace the game with a substitute player or players with another couple. All tournament players are subject to an immediate call if a substitute player is required.

23. If a referee considers that a player is taking an abnormal amount of time to execute a shot with the intention of disrupting his opponent, the referee must notify the player who is taking the risk of disqualification if it continues with the tactics dilatory. If the player continues its tactics of disruption, this will constitute grounds for disqualification. If you are not officiating any referee, tournament director will have the right to invoke this rule.

24. Deliberate defense throws are not allowed. If you play are a fault. The referee or tournament director must make mention or violation of this rule and the striker must accept the balls as staying or "arming" the shot out.

25. In any event, usually the tournament director and another member of the local federation or event organizers who is not participating in the tournament, should constitute a committee which shall be to report situations where they violate the ethics of sport.
Before the tournament, players are required to nominate two players to serve on the committee to protect the interests of the players. The two players who represent the local federation and the two players representing the interests of the other players must together consider any evidence or reports constitute a violation of sportsmanship. If this committee does not reach a consensus to resolve the complaint or report, representatives should submit a written report to the federation organizing the event for it to be considered by the Board of Directors. The two representatives of the players also need to submit their views to the Board of Directors for the next regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors, is considered the complaint or reference and for the actions or resolutions recommended by the Most members are applied against or in favor of the player or players accused.

continue reading

Carom Rules

Carom Billiards is a type of billiard game played on a billiard table with no pockets. It is an extremely technical and precise game that requires much skill.

General Rules of Carom Billiards

Except when clearly contradicted by rules specific to a given game these rules apply to all Carom Billiard games.

Equipment

The table should be either 4 feet by 8 feet, 4 1/2 feet by 9 feet, 5 feet by 10 feet, or 6 feet by 12 feet without pockets. Markings include spots in the center of the head string, foot string, and center string. There should be two additional spots on the head string six inches on either side of the head spot.

Three balls are used (except in Four Ball where a second, darker, red ball is also used) - one red bell, one white ball without spots and one yellow (or white ball with two diametrically opposed spots). The balls are roughly 2-3/8" diameter (metric equivalents range from 61mm to 65.5mm depending on the set; four ball sets are usually the largest).

Opening Break

The opening break is to be determined by lagging with the winning player having the option of shooting the break shot himself or allowing his opponent to shoot the break shot. For the break shot, place the red ball on the foot spot, the opponent's cue ball on the head spot, and the shooter's cue ball on the head string within six inches of the center spot. For the break to be legal, the cue ball must contact the red ball first.

Choice of Cue Ball

The winner of the lag has choice of cue ball. Once cue balls are assigned each player must shoot with only his cue ball (using the other player's cue ball is a foul). (In games with an odd number of people incoming player is assigned the cue ball which was not assigned to the player who's inning just ended -- alternate which cue ball is used.)

Spotting Jumped Balls

The preferred order for spotting the cue balls is: head spot, foot spot, then center spot. The latter spots come into play if the previous ones are ocuupied by another ball.

If the shooter's cue ball and his opponent's cue ball have both jumped the table then the shooter's cue ball spots first.

The preferred order for the red ball is: foot spot, head spot, then center spot.

If both object balls have jumped the table then they are spotted as above beginning with whichever can occupy it's primary spot.

Safety Play

Playing a safety leaves the player playing from safety when he begins his next inning.

There is a limit on safety play in Carom billiard rules. A player may not play safe in consecutive innings. If a player does play safe in consecutive innings it is a foul and does not relieve the consecutive inning limitation on safety play (his next turn at the table is then also considered to be playing from safety).

A legal safety requires a ball, cue or object, to contact a cushion after the player's cue ball has contacted an object ball. Failure to meet this requirement is a foul.

Fouls

The following are fouls for which the penalty is loss of turn and no count if a valid count would otherwise have been made

Playing out of turn.
Playing safe while playing from safety.
Accidental contact with any of the balls.
Striking the cue ball twice or with anything other than the cue tip (i.e. cue on the same stroke, shaft, hand, chalk, bridge, etc.).
Push shots. (A shot is considered a push shot if the cue tip is in contact with the cue ball for more than the time necessary for a normal legal stroke.)
Making a shot while one of the balls is still in motion.
Shooting wrong cue ball.
Not having at least one foot on the floor while shooting.
If the shooter's cue ball jumps off (comes to rest off of) the table.
Illegally jumping the cue ball (intentionally causing the cue ball to jump by contacting it below the horizontal plane through the center of the cue ball).

All fouls carry a deduction of one point from offender's score as a penalty. (Note: International competition does not have the point penalty on fouls unless they're deemed intentional.)

The following are fouls for which the penalties are described under unsportsman like conduct

Intentional interference with the path of the the balls.
Intentional interference with the play of your opponent.

continue reading

10 Ball Rules

1. The Game

The players decide who plays first, the break shot player must alternate for each frame. The balls are set and the cue ball is played from any point on or behind the baulk line by the on-player The on-player scores points by potting reds and colors alternately starting with a red ball. When a red ball is legally potted the player may continue his play and attempt to pot any of the colors on the table, every colored ball must be clearly nominated before striking the cue-ball.

The value of the first colored ball legally potted during each individual break denotes the value of all of the colored balls throughout that break. i.e.. if the first colored ball potted during the break is the blue ball, all of the colored balls on the table for that break are worth 5 points. The colored balls revert to their original value when the on-player fails to pot a ball. When the final red ball is potted and the next colored ball played, the colored balls are then potted in ascending order of their original set value, starting with the Green Ball (3 points), finishing with the Ten Ball (10 points).

2. The Break Shot

The frame starts with the first strike of the cue-ball. The cue-ball must hit the APEX red ball of the diamond configuration, breaking open the balls, so that at least four red balls hit the cushions or pockets of the table. If during this break shot (or at any stage during the frame) more than one red is potted in a single stroke, the player scores one point per potted red ball, continues his play, and must attempt to pot the same amount of colors as potted reds, but only in succession. If the cue-ball or a colored ball enters a pocket during the break shot it is deemed to be a foul, all of the potted balls are respotted.

3. Continuation of Play

The player about to play or in-play is the on-player and remains so until completion of the stroke or break. A ball must touch a cushion or be potted for a stroke to be deemed legal. If a red ball is legally potted it remains out of play. If a colored ball is legally potted after potting a red ball, it is replaced on its original position before the next stroke is made. The next player plays from where the cue-ball comes to rest.

If the frame has not reached a conclusion when the only remaining ball is the Ten Ball, the first score or foul ends the frame. A red ball potted during an illegal stroke or off the table is repositioned on the center spot. If a foul stroke has been played all of the potted balls are respotted. If, whilst re-spotting any ball, the deemed spot is occupied, the ball is placed on the highest available spot, or if no spots are available the ball is placed at the nearest point to it's designated spot, in direct line with the top cushion. If the cue-ball has been potted or is off the table, it must be replaced on the Brown ball spot, or if occupied, either the Green ball spot or the Blue ball spot. If all three spots are occupied, the cue-ball must be placed on the baulk line between the Blue ball spot and the Green Ball spot. If at the end of the frame the scores are equal, a shoot out decides the game.

The Ten Ball is spotted on the Center Spot, the players draw lots for choice of playing and the cue-ball is placed on the Brown Ball Spot. The players take it in turns to attempt to pot the Ten Ball , resetting the scenario after each strike. The first pot after an even amount of turns, or a foul, ends the frame. This style of shoot out may also be used to decide the breaking player. A ball cannot be removed from the table and cleaned unless there is a foreign object on it. Chalk dust is not deemed to be a foreign object.

4. Penalties

If a foul is committed all balls shall remain where positioned, except if potted, or off the table, whereby they shall be correctly spotted. A jump shot is not deemed to be a foul stroke. All points scored before the foul stroke are allowed. When a foul shot has been played, the NEXT player has the option of taking the cue-ball in-hand OR adding 10 points to their score, either playing the cue-ball from its resting position or requesting the previous player to play again from the resting position. The resting position is also the respotted position - if the cue ball has been potted or is off the table. If the on-player decides to play in-hand, the cue-ball may be positioned anywhere on the table and played in any direction. ALL fouls incur this choice of penalty apart from one: On the break shot, if four balls do not touch a cushion or the cue-ball does not strike the Apex red ball first, the next player has the option of either playing in-hand or requesting the previous player to break again.
The following are deemed to be fouls:

-When playing at a red ball, the cue-ball strikes any ball on the first strike other than a red ball (Apex red on break shot).
-When playing at a colored ball, the cue-ball strikes any ball on the first strike other than the nominated colored ball.
-When playing at a red ball, the on-player pots any ball other than a red ball.
-When playing at a colored ball, the on-player pots any ball other than the nominated colored ball.
-When playing at a colored ball, the on-player does not nominate a colored ball before striking the cue-ball
-The cue-ball does not strike a ball during a stroke
-Striking when the balls are not at rest
-Striking the cue-ball more than once
-Playing a stroke with both feet off the floor
-Playing out of turn
-Pushing the cue ball or playing a push stroke (if however, the cue-ball and an on-ball are almost touching, it shall be deemed a fair stroke if the cue-ball clips the finest possible edge of the on-ball)
-Forcing a ball off the table If during a stroke, no balls touch a cushion or are potted (a ball at rest on a cushion is not deemed to have hit the cushion during the stroke)
-If the on-player strikes any ball other than the cue ball, or touches the cue-ball with anything other than the tip of the cue
-Playing at red balls in successive strokes
-Uses a ball, other than the nominated cue-ball, as the cue-ball
-If players are deemed to be taking an abnormal amount of time over strokes.
-If players conduct themselves in a manner which is unsportsmanlike
-A player will lose the frame if they commit three successive fouls. Players will be warned by the referee that they are liable to be disqualified if they persist in any of the above fouls. If a player refuses to continue a frame or they conduct themselves in a manner which, in the opinion of the referee is willfully or persistently unfair, they shall lose the game. A foul is any act which contravenes these rules.

5. Generally accepted Pool Game Rules

The next player plays from where the cue-ball comes to rest. If the cue-ball is deemed to be touching another ball the on-player must play away from this ball. This is not a foul stroke.

All balls being respotted shall be spotted on their original spot. If the deemed spot is occupied, the ball is placed on the highest available spot, if no spot is available the ball is spotted on the nearest point to it's designated spot, in direct line with the top cushion.

If when playing a stroke it is discovered that a ball is not correctly spotted, if on the table it will be considered to be correctly spotted, if not on the table it will be spotted before the next stroke. It is up to the striker to ensure that all balls are correctly spotted before striking. If a ball is moved other than by the striker it shall be repositioned an agreed position by the players.

The off-player shall at all times try to avoid moving whilst in the on-player's sight line, especially when the opponent is about to strike.

In games with more than two players each side shall open the frames in turn. If playing in teams, at the beginning of each frame the order of play is decided and must remain the same throughout the frame. The players with in a team however may change the order of play at the commencement of each frame. Players on the same side may confer during a game but not whilst one of the players is playing at the table or after the first stroke of their break.

Wheelchair players must remain seated with their feet on footplates or blocks which must be clear of the ground. Officials and other players are allowed to assist wheelchair players who are having difficulty placing and removing ancillary equipment from the table during play.

The referee shall be the sole judge of play and whether it is deemed to be fair or unfair. The referee shall intervene if there is any contravention of the rules, if a player is color blind to call the color of the balls on request or clean any ball if necessary or requested. The referee shall not answer any question not authorized in the rules, indicate to a player that they are about to play a foul stroke or give any advice or opinion which may affect the game. If a referee has not been appointed, decisions must be made by the players in a fair and rational manner.

continue reading

9 Ball

1 OBJECT OF THE GAME.

Nine Ball is played with nine object balls numbered one through nine and a cue ball. On each shot the first ball the cue ball contacts must be the lowest-numbered ball on the table, but the balls need not be pocketed in order. If a player pockets any ball on a legal shot, he remains at the table for another shot, and continues until he misses, fouls, or wins the game by pocketing the 9-ball. After a miss, the incoming player must shoot from the position left by the previous player, but after any foul the incoming player may start with the cue ball anywhere on the table. Players are not required to call any shot. a match ends when one of the players has won the required number of games.

2. RACKING THE BALLS.

The object balls are racked in a diamond shape, with the one ball at the top of the diamond and on the foot spot, the nine ball in the center of the diamond, and the other balls in random order, racked as tightly as possible. the game begins with cue ball in hand behind the head string.

3. LEGAL BREAK SHOT.

The rules governing the break shot are the same as for other shots except:

a. The breaker must strike the 1-ball first and either pocket a ball or drive at least four numbered balls to the rail.

b. If the cue ball is pocketed or driven off the table, or the requirements of the opening break are not met, it is a foul, and the incoming player has cue ball in hand anywhere on the table.

c. If on the break shot, the breaker causes an object ball to jump off the table, it is a foul and the incoming player has cue ball in hand anywhere on the table. The object ball is not respotted (exception: if the object ball is the 9-ball, it is respotted).

4. CONTINUING PLAY.

On the shot immediately following a legal break, the shooter may play a "push out." (See Rule 5.). If the breaker pockets one or more balls on a legal break, he continues to shoot until he misses, fouls, or wins the game. If the player misses or fouls, the other player begins his inning and shoots until he misses, fouls, or wins. the game ends when the nine ball is pocketed on a legal shot, or the game is forfeited for a serious infraction of the rules.

5. PUSH OUT.

The player who shoots the shot immediately after a legal break may play a push out in an attempt to move the cue ball into a better position for the option that follows. On a push out, the cue ball is not required to contact any object ball nor any rail, but all other foul rules still apply. The player must announce his intention of playing a push out before the shot, or the shot is considered to be a normal shot. Any ball pocketed on a push out does not count and remains pocketed except the 9-ball. Following a legal push out, the incoming player is permitted to shoot from that position or to pass the shot back to the player who pushed out. A push out is not considered to be a foul as long as no rule (except rules 7. and 8.) is violated. An illegal push out is penalized according to the type of foul committed. After a player scratches on the break shot, the incoming player cannot play a push out.

6. FOULS.

When a player commits a foul, he must relinquish his run at the table and no balls pocketed on the foul shot are respotted (exception: if a pocketed ball is the 9-ball, it is respotted). The incoming player is awarded ball in hand; prior to his first shot he may place the cue ball anywhere on the table. If a player commits several fouls on one shot, they are counted as only one foul.

7. BAD HIT.

If the first object ball contacted by the cue ball is not the lowest- numbered ball on the table, the shot is foul.

8. NO RAIL.

If no object ball is pocketed, failure to drive the cue ball or any numbered ball to a rail after the cue ball contacts the object ball on is a foul.

9. IN HAND.

When the cue ball is in hand, the player may place the cue ball anywhere on the bed of the table, except in contact with an object ball. He may continue to adjust the position of the cue ball until he takes a shot.

10. OBJECT BALLS JUMPED OFF THE TABLE.

An unpocketed ball is considered to be driven off the table if it comes to rest other than on the bed of the table. It is a foul to drive an object ball off the table. The jumped object ball(s) is not respotted (exception: if the object ball is the 9-ball, it is respotted) and play continues.

11. JUMP AND MASSE SHOT FOUL.

If a match is not refereed, it will be considered a cue ball foul if during an attempt to jump, curve or masse the cue ball over or around an impeding numbered ball, the impeding ball moves (regardless of whether it was moved by a hand, cue stick follow-through or bridge).

12. THREE CONSECUTIVE FOULS.

If a player fouls three consecutive times on three successive shots without making an intervening legal shot, he loses the game. The three fouls must occur in one game. The warning must be given between the second and third fouls.

A player's inning begins when it is legal for him to take a shot and ends at the end of a shot on which he misses, fouls or wins, or when he fouls between shots.

13. END OF GAME.

A game starts as soon as the cue ball crosses over the head string on the opening break. The 1-ball must be legally contacted on the break shot. The game ends at the end of a legal shot which pockets the 9-ball; or when a player forfeits the game as the result of a foul.

continue reading

8 Ball

1. OBJECT OF THE GAME.

Eight Ball is a call shot game played with a cue ball and fifteen object balls, numbered 1 through 15. One player must pocket balls of the group numbered 1 through 7 (solid colors), while the other player has 9 thru 15 (stripes). THE PLAYER POCKETING HIS GROUP FIRST AND THEN LEGALLY POCKETING THE 8-BALL WINS THE GAME.

2. CALL SHOT.

In Call Shot, obvious balls and pockets do not have to be indicated. It is the opponent's right to ask which ball and pocket if he is unsure of the shot. Bank shots and combination shots are not considered obvious, and care should be taken in calling both the object ball and the intended pocket. When calling the shot, it is NEVER necessary to indicate details such as the number of cushions, banks, kisses, caroms, etc. Any balls pocketed on a foul remain pocketed, regardless of whether they belong to the shooter or the opponent.

The opening break is not a "called shot." Any player performing a break shot in 8-Ball may continue to shoot his next shot so long as he has legally pocketed any object ball on the break.

3. RACKING THE BALLS.

The balls are racked in a triangle at the foot of the table with the 8-ball in the center of the triangle, the first ball of the rack on the footspot, a stripe ball in one corner of the rack and a solid ball in the other corner.

4. ALTERNATING BREAK.

Winner of the lag has the option to break. During individual competition, players will alternate breaking on each subsequent game.

5. JUMP AND MASSE SHOT FOUL.

While "cue ball fouls only" is the rule of play when a match is not presided over by a referee, a player should be aware that it will be considered a cue ball foul if during an attempt to jump, curve or masse the cue ball over or around an impeding numbered ball that is not a legal object ball, the impeding ball moves (regardless of whether it was moved by a hand, cue stick follow-through or bridge).

6. LEGAL BREAK SHOT.

(Defined) To execute a legal break, the breaker (with the cue ball behind the headstring) must either (1) pocket a ball, or (2) drive at least four numbered balls to the rail. If he fails to make a legal break, it is a foul, and the incoming player has the option of (1) accepting the table in position and shooting, or (2) having the balls reracked and having the option of shooting the opening break himself or allowing the offending player to rebreak.

7. SCRATCH ON A LEGAL BREAK.

If a player scratches on a legal break shot, (1) all balls pocketed remain pocketed (exception, the 8-ball: see rule 9), (2) it is a foul, (3) the table is open. PLEASE NOTE: Incoming player has cue ball in hand behind the head string and may not shoot an object ball that is behind the head string, unless he first shoots the cue ball past the headstring and causes the cue ball to come back behind the headstring and hit the object ball.

8. OBJECT BALLS JUMPED OFF THE TABLE ON THE BREAK.

If a player jumps an object ball off the table on the break shot, it is a foul and the incoming player has the option of (1) accepting the table in position and shooting, or (2) taking cue ball in hand behind the head string and shooting.

9. 8-BALL POCKETED ON THE BREAK.

If the 8-ball is pocketed on the break, the breaker may ask for a re-rack or have the 8-ball spotted and continue shooting. If the breaker scratches while pocketing the 8-ball on the break, the incoming player has the option of a re-rack or having the 8-ball spotted and begin shooting with ball in hand behind the headstring.

10. OPEN TABLE. (Defined)

The table is "open" when the choice of groups (stripes or solids) has not yet been determined. When the table is open, it is legal to hit a solid first to make a stripe or vice-versa. Note: The table is always open immediately after the break shot. When the table is open it is legal to hit any solid or stripe or the 8-ball first in the process of pocketing the called stripe or solid. However, when the table is open and the 8-ball is the first ball contacted, no stripe or solid may be scored in favor of the shooter. The shooter loses his turn; any balls pocketed remain pocketed; and the incoming player addresses the balls with the table still open. On an open table, all illegally pocketed balls remain pocketed.

11. CHOICE OF GROUP.

The choice of stripes or solids is not determined on the break even if balls are made from only one or both groups. THE TABLE IS ALWAYS OPEN IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE BREAK SHOT. The choice of group is determined only when a player legally pockets a called object ball after the break shot.

12. LEGAL SHOT.

(Defined) On all shots (except on the break and when the table is open), the shooter must hit one of his group of balls first and (1) pocket a numbered ball, or (2) cause the cue ball or any numbered ball to contact a rail.

PLEASE NOTE: It is permissable for the shooter to bank the cue ball off a rail before contacting his object ball; however, after contact with his object ball, an object ball must be pocketed, OR the cue ball or any numbered ball must contact a rail. Failure to meet these requirements is a foul.

13. "SAFETY" SHOT.

For tactical reasons a player may choose to pocket an obvious object ball and also discontinue his turn at the table by declaring "safety" in advance. A safety shot is defined as a legal shot. If the shooting player intends to play safe by pocketing an obvious object ball, then prior to the shot, he must declare a "safety" to his opponent. If this is NOT done, and one of the shooter's object balls is pocketed, the shooter will be required to shoot again. Any ball pocketed on a safety shot remains pocketed.

14. SCORING.

A player is entitled to continue shooting until he fails to legally pocket a ball of his group. After a player has legally pocketed all of his group of balls, he shoots to pocket the 8-ball.

15. FOUL PENALTY.

Opposing player gets cue ball in hand. This means that the player can place the cue ball anywhere on the table (does not have to be behind the headstring except on opening break). This rule prevents a player from making intentional fouls which would put his opponent at a disadvantage. With "cue ball in hand," the player may use his hand or any part of his cue (including the tip) to position the cue ball. When placing the cue ball in position, any forward stroke motion contacting the cue ball will be a foul, if not a legal shot. (Also see Rule 39 in the General Rules of Pocket Billiards)

16. COMBINATION SHOTS.

Combination shots are allowed; however, the 8-ball cannot be used as a first ball in the combination except when the table is open.

17. ILLEGALLY POCKETED BALLS.

An object ball is considered to be illegally pocketed when (1) that object ball is pocketed on the same shot a foul is committed, or (2) the called ball did not go in the designated pocket, or (3) a safety is called prior to the shot. Illegally pocketed balls remain pocketed.

18. OBJECT BALLS JUMPED OFF THE TABLE.

If any object ball is jumped off the table, it is a foul and loss of turn, unless it is the 8-ball, which is a loss of game. Any jumped object balls are spotted in numerical order according to General Rules for spotting balls.

19. PLAYING THE 8-BALL.

When shooting at the 8-ball, a scratch or foul is not loss of game if the 8-ball is not pocketed or jumped from the table. Incoming player has cue ball in hand. Note: A combination shot can never be used to legally pocket the 8-ball.

20. LOSS OF GAME.

A player loses the game if he commits any of the following infractions:

a. Fouls when pocketing the 8-ball (exception: see 8-Ball Pocketed On The Break).

b. Pockets the 8-ball on the same stroke as the last of his group of balls.

c. Jumps the 8-ball off the table at any time.

d. Pockets the 8-ball in a pocket other than the one designated.

e. Pockets the 8-ball when it is not the legal object ball.

Note: All infractions must be called before another shot is taken, or else it will be deemed that no infraction occurred.

21. STALEMATED GAME.

If, after 3 consecutive turns at the table by each player (6 turns total), the referee judges (or if no referee, both players agree) that attempting to pocket or move an object ball will result in loss of game, the balls will be reracked with the original breaker of the stalemated game breaking again. The stalemate rule may only be used when there are only two object balls and the 8-ball remaining on the table. PLEASE NOTE: Three consecutive fouls by one player is not a loss of game.

continue reading

Pool Cues

Although the blocks in any manner, serve the same (hard cylindrical rod with a progressive taper, which has a shell that ends in a socket, used by pool players to push one of the balls to perform each one of the plays) specifications vary between the different disciplines of billiards, for example:

1. The cue "Five Keels"

The best are the Italians that usually made of graphite instead of traditional wood. They come in 2, 3 and 4 pieces. Also used to play "The Goriziana"

2. The cue of "Caroms"

A. Length: 56 inches
B. Weight: 15 to 18 ounces
C. Auction or profile: Tapered
D. Cap Diameter: 10 to 12.5 mm.
E. Length of shell: half inch
F. Thread or board: wood
G. Cover (the handle): Rubber

There are also differences in weight, diameter of the cap, and so on. between blocks of different forms of the discipline of carambola (three bands, free, artistic billiards).

3. The cue of "Snooker"
Also used to play the "English Billiards". The best are made in England. They have more than 59 inches in length, the ferrule is metal and are usually screwed cap. Dropouts are made of ash and ramin French or not the classic oak (maple) to which we are accustomed and which we consider superior. There are some who are part of the cylinder head to be placed flat on the table and attack with one hand without the use of the violin.

4. The cue "Billiards" or Pool

A. Length: 58 inches
B. Weight: 18 to 21 ounces
C. Auction or profile: cylindrical
D. Cap Diameter: 12.5 to 13.5 mm
E. Ferrule Length: 1 inch
F. Thread or board, metal
G. Cover (the handle): Irish linen

THE CUE Billiard or Pool

The Modern billiard cue Buchaca is a cylinder-conical rod made of hard wood that measures about 57 inches (1.15m) long, weigh from 18 to 21 ounces. His taper ranging from 1-1/4 "(32mm) diameter up to about ½" (13mm) smaller diameter. It has at its bottom a rubber cushion that serves as protection.

Modern blocks are made of two pieces with a center board making it easy to transport, allows you to use different toe and are better preserved than those of a single piece. Some of these tacos, made to suit the user, are very fine, luxurious and expensive.

The two-piece cue consists of the following parts: head, and toe board. The stock is the most thick and heavy, is generally made with fine woods such as ebony, mahogany and walnut. The tips of snaps that can be seen in the handle, are not just decorative.
Serve to provide more surface contact to adhesives and to make it structurally stronger. Is customary to trim and inlays in the butt. The grip area is usually wrapped in nylon, cotton or Irish linen, the latter preferred to have very desirable absorption characteristics when played in a wet environment or if the person has sweaty hands.

The head and toe are joined by a threaded joint whose terminals can be stainless steel, brass or aluminum. It is important that the board is strong and right to prevent pitching toe.

The toe is made mostly of maple (maple). This is a hard wood fiber long, very stable, absorbs very little humidity, which makes it more resistant to deformation. The thinnest part of the tip has a pressure building shell or curled. The shell can be fiber, plastic, ivory or horn. The body dilutes the impact of stroke by preventing the pin lengthwise crack. On the ferrule is attached cap, which is the most important part of a taco, so much so that "a bad taco is better with a good cap, a good taco with a cap flawed." The leading professional has turned the last 6 inches to the same diameter of the cap.

The caps are made of sole leather chrome or tannin. They are hydraulically pressed at very high pressures to make them homogeneous and strong.

The cap is different parts: base, wall and crown. The wall must be at least 1 / 8 "(3mm) high. It is important that the crown is well-formed to make good contact with the Minga. Also, the surface of the cap must be rough to take either chalk.

The diameter of the cap can be 12 to 14 mm, we recommend use of
13mm.

How to make pool cues? Watch this video.

continue reading

Caroms Tables

French billiard tables are rectangular, with two short and two long strips. The board has Buchaca (bags), and is larger than the pool tables or pool. The table is covered with green cloth, usually and the bands have a rubber edge that makes the balls bounce when they hit them. The rubber inner side is also lined with the same material as the rest of the playing surface and therefore not seen.



It is desirable that the tables are kept in a stable environment in climate and humidity, they tend to affect the elasticity and longevity of the material.

The table has two distinct parts in its edge, the side with cloth, the same lines the playing area and the outside, which can be painted wood. It is this outside where the diamonds. Diamonds are embedded benchmarks in a symmetrical manner and are used to steer the ball to control its trajectory. The knowledge of angles and effects in the game becomes important, since lead shot into a diamond will have different results depending on the contact angle and the rotation of the ball hitting the band.

continue reading

Pool Tables

The pool table has 6 pockets, cuantro in the corners of the table and the other two in the middle of the band longer than four in the table.



The bands they are made of an elastic material coated cloth slightly green or blue (the same cloth covering the table).

The outside of the table that is not covered is called rails, and has some marks, or trademarks of diamonds called eighth, which serve to guide the player in the shots where you have to use the bands.

Measurements of the game supeficie are 254 X 127 cm. And the pockets have a diameter of 13.017 cm. and not more than 12.382 cm. maximum. The side shall be at least 13.625 mm. and a maximum of 14.287 cm.

The entrance slits are straight, 45 degrees, the corners, the sides and 32 degrees.



How to make pool tables? Watch this video:

continue reading

Tables

Over time have built pool tables of various materials: marble, iron ... wood, which are currently used, the surface on which plays coated cloth, or mat, usually green.

The surface of the table should be rectangular and the board without any unevenness. Table surrounding the bands, about 5 cm high, usually rubber or rubber so they can hit the ball harder.

continue reading

Snooker

Snooker is a billiards game that takes place in a special table measures 3.6 m by 1.8 m, also called twelve feet. It is played with a cue ball (the cue ball), fifteen red balls and six balls in the following colors: black, pink, blue, brown, green and yellow.

Game Mechanics

The goal is to get more points than the opponent, holed balls in a certain order. The rules of snooker game set in turn, each of which the player must try to make as many combinations of red ball red ball more. That is, it points to a red ball first, gets into one of six holes of the table, adding a point, and then has to introduce a red ball, adding to the score value of the color ball introduced. The referee put back in place the potted colored ball. In principle, the colored ball to strike must be announced before making the shot, but this is usually not necessary because usually seen clearly in the position of the player which ball points.

The score of the balls is as follows:

bola red: 1 points

bola yellow: 2 points

bola green: 3 points

bola brown: 4 points

bola blue: 5 points

bola pink: 6 points

bola black: 7 points

Once all the red balls potted, with their combinations, in order of value holed colored balls. Must touch the ball or the player corresponding commit an offense that added four points, at least at the marker of its rival.

The maximum score that can be obtained by combining the fifteen red balls with the black ball and pot the six colored balls is 147 points (15 * 8 + 27). However, in certain circumstances can overcome this score, nor is it essential to always combine on black ball to the 147 points. These two conditions require a failure by one of the players with the twenty balls on the table.

The game is very popular in the UK, Ireland, Canada, Holland, Belgium, Denmark, Australia and India. Recently, interest has grown in the same in West Asia and players from Thailand, Hong Kong and China have reached the elite, although its practice has expanded greatly from other European countries like Spain and Portugal. The young 22 year old Shaun Murphy in 2005 was the surprise champion of the world. In May 2006 he was ousted by the Scot Graeme Dott.

To give you an idea of ​​how to play Snooker:






Also here are snooker tricks:

continue reading

Caroms Balls

Uses three billiard balls. Two white or ivory (sometimes uses a white and yellow) and one red. If using two or ivory white balls, one of which must be marked to avoid confusion.




The diameter of the balls can vary between 61 and 61.5 mm, and weighs between 205 and 220 g, but it can never be a difference between the heaviest and lightest 2 gr.

continue reading

Pool Balls

For the 8-ball pool modalities will need 15 numbered balls and a cue ball is the cue ball. The balls numbered 1 through 15 are divided into two groups of 7 balls and the black ball, bearing the number 8. The numbered 1 to 7 show a solid color each, and numbered between 9 and 15 have a different color strip of each:

Solid
# 1 Yellow
# 2 Blue
# 3 Red
# 4 Purple or lilac
# 5 Orange
# 6 Green
# 7 Brown
# 8 Black

Straight
# 9 Yellow
# 10 Blue
# 11 Red
# 12 Purple
# 13 Orange
# 14 Green
# 15 Brown

All balls, towels included, must be weighed (165 g) and measured (57 mm). Same.

In the form of 9-Ball used 10 balls of 57 mm. in diameter, which the shooter is white and the other balls, numbered as follows:

Solid
# 1 Yellow
# 2 Blue
# 3 Red
# 4 Purple
# 5 Orange
# 6 Green
# 7 Brown
# 8 Black

Straight
# 9 Yellow

continue reading