Although there are already a few threads concerning 14.1, I’ve started this one to open a discussion on the strategies of the game. I’m working hard to improve my game and so would appreciate any insight from the straight pool monsters out there. To get things started, some things about my game that I’ve recently noticed or struggled with are:
Please share any tips, strategy or advice that might help us aspiring straight pool players. Thanks!
Break shots
Although they are not usually considered as desirable as side of the rank break shots, I seem to have good percentage of success using side pocket break shots as well as balls below the rack and on the bottom rail. I don’t go out of my way to create these break shots, but accept them if they are there. Although they are sometimes harder to setup, they often seem to allow better cue ball control after the break, and less risk of scratching. While on the subject, how early in a particular rack should you select a break ball?
Speed on the break shot
When I hit them too hard I often end up with too many clusters and balls on the rail, or re-clustering of balls back into the rack area. Are there any rules of thumb to help you gauge how hard to hit a break shot?
Clearance strategy
Once the balls are open, what is the best way to go about clearing them? Is it best to work from the outside in, or inside out? What are the advantages or disadvantages of each? My pattern play for the most part is circular from the outside in.
Although they are not usually considered as desirable as side of the rank break shots, I seem to have good percentage of success using side pocket break shots as well as balls below the rack and on the bottom rail. I don’t go out of my way to create these break shots, but accept them if they are there. Although they are sometimes harder to setup, they often seem to allow better cue ball control after the break, and less risk of scratching. While on the subject, how early in a particular rack should you select a break ball?
Speed on the break shot
When I hit them too hard I often end up with too many clusters and balls on the rail, or re-clustering of balls back into the rack area. Are there any rules of thumb to help you gauge how hard to hit a break shot?
Clearance strategy
Once the balls are open, what is the best way to go about clearing them? Is it best to work from the outside in, or inside out? What are the advantages or disadvantages of each? My pattern play for the most part is circular from the outside in.
Please share any tips, strategy or advice that might help us aspiring straight pool players. Thanks!
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