For a fun bridging update
Since this thread started, I've been 0 for 6 in APA matches. Last night, for the cue ball really close to the rail, I switched from an open bridge behind the rail to bridging on the rail itself with the index finger over the cue. I'm now 1 for 7. Damn you guys. Making me change stuff.
I guess that illustrates that it's not a question of open or closed, it's a question of what the shot requires and what you require to make that shot happen. Stability of the bridge is paramount, and everything else is window dressing.
Since this thread started, I've been 0 for 6 in APA matches. Last night, for the cue ball really close to the rail, I switched from an open bridge behind the rail to bridging on the rail itself with the index finger over the cue. I'm now 1 for 7. Damn you guys. Making me change stuff.
I guess that illustrates that it's not a question of open or closed, it's a question of what the shot requires and what you require to make that shot happen. Stability of the bridge is paramount, and everything else is window dressing.