jnwilliams said:

So, I usually spend around 10 hours of week on my personal table (8' professional) practicing and playing the ghost and usually play one match a week with a buddy. A couple of races to 9. what is the best way to determine my "level"? BU exams? wins / losses? Never played in a tourney or league. Just shoot and practice because I love it and find peace doing it.

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There are lots of ways to estimate your rating. See the video and article at the bottom of the page here:

Sheldon said:

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I agree with everything except Bigfoot, don't you think Bigfoot deserves to be in the green???

BobbyD963 said:

Since my long absence I have probably gained 30lbs. I tried to keep and maintain my old form but with my stroke my elbow physically cant be as close to my body as it used to be but my natural muscle memory goes back to my old form automatically. I either need to reinstate my LA fitness membership or develop new mechanics.

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You might try experimenting with more of a traditional snooker stance with your feet and upper body more facing the target, so your arm/elbow are not as much obstructed by your stomach on your follow through.

In its home country, Ultimate Pool uses reds and yellows, so the black and white striped 8 ball stands out better. Probably a better ball set to use.

dtroup64 said:

I think this is what you are looking for:

2026 Ultimate Pool USA National Pairs | DigitalPool

Wed, Nov 4, 2026, 1:00 AM · Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort, Cherokee, North Carolina · Eight Ball — The Ultimate Pool USA National Pairs returns as part of Grand Finals week at Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort. With 64 pairs and $5,000 to the winners,

digitalpool.com

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Thanks - much appreciated!

ShootingArts said:

Why would acceleration always be used in calculations and proofs if deceleration is perfectly acceptable?

You made my point well. Thanks!

Hu

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Funny stuff.

Corey's not a people?

skor said:

This really all a cue needs to be in terms of esthetics and design

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Thanks.

But honestly, the OPs cues are fantastic.

Why not use both? I kid, of course. Use what works for you.

My take on it would be that a glove would be a little more versatile if you don't shoot with a closed bridge consistently. That is based on the handful of racks I played with a sleeve.

I play a lot of pool in Central Texas, and humidity here sometimes necessitates a glove even though I don't like them very much. I've only seen 2 or 3 people around here use a sleeve, but I'd guess 40% or more of the players I see use gloves. One using a sleeve was a pro during the latest Texas Open.