closed-hand bridge suggestions

M

mwoods86

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Most of the time I have played with an open bridge, which works most of the time, though I know it isn't the best for draw or shots where you need some power. I've been working on making a closed bridge but I have some questions about it; Where should the tip of the index finger touch the thumb? should the thumb be resting on the table or elevated? When I make mine similar to photos I've seen the shaft passes through with ALOT of resistance, like talcum powder would be absolutely necessary or I'd get a blister.

I know everybody has their own special way of doing it, does anybody have any explanations as to the way they do it, or photos of their closed bridge? I'll post a photo of mine when I figure out how to get a good pic of it.
 
mwoods86 said:
Most of the time I have played with an open bridge, which works most of the time, though I know it isn't the best for draw or shots where you need some power. I've been working on making a closed bridge but I have some questions about it; Where should the tip of the index finger touch the thumb? should the thumb be resting on the table or elevated? When I make mine similar to photos I've seen the shaft passes through with ALOT of resistance, like talcum powder would be absolutely necessary or I'd get a blister.

I know everybody has their own special way of doing it, does anybody have any explanations as to the way they do it, or photos of their closed bridge? I'll post a photo of mine when I figure out how to get a good pic of it.
Click to expand...
I think you need to understand the goals of the bridge and then see if your way of making a closed bridge satisfies those goals.

As for the binding, often that can be fixed by rotating your hand so that the index finger is more perpendicular to the cue stick. For a right-handed player, they would rotate their left hand in a clock-wise direction as viewed from above. It also helps to have clean, dry hands and a very clean stick. Many players make the mistake of loosening their closed bridge to allow the stick to slide and at that point they might be better off with an open bridge.

If you are just learning a closed bridge, I urge you to use a fist bridge for draw.

If you have control of your back hand, an open bridge is fine for draw shots as well as all other shots, but most players need firmer guidance.
 
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mwoods86 said:
Where should the tip of the index finger touch the thumb? should the thumb be resting on the table or elevated?
Click to expand...

Err,..wrong thought train::

A) two fingers and the thumb are used to control the shaft.
B) the middle finger is used as a fulcrum point
C) the thumb is used to control the height of the cue at impact on CB
D) the index finger holds the shaft so the A and B cause the tip to impact CB at the proper point

Thus, the index finger does NOT have to touch the thumb, It just has to keep the shaft from falling down the fulcrum.
And the thumb should not be touching the table (most of the time)

Also note, the wrist should be bent so the hand in generally pointing across the table so the fulcrum is easier to use.
 
An open bridge, or a closed bridge, it really doesn't matter. Playing with an open mind, however, is another thing entirely. :smile:
 
I think it really comes down to comfort.

When I was first learning, the closed bridge was very uncomfortable. My fingers just didn't stretch that way but I was determined to include it in my skill set and spent time away from the pool table just holding a pen or pencil in that hand in a closed bridge position whenever I was doing nothing else: driving, watching tv, whatever. It got more comfortable and provided quite a bit more control when I wanted it.

Funny thing is that over the last couple years, I'd say that I shoot 60% of my shots with an open bridge. My position play has gotten more precise so I rarely need the stability of a closed bridge. I'm playing softer, rolling positions and the open bridge gives a better sightline to the shots.
 
Here's one of the bridges I use if it helps to visualize...
 

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12squared said:
Here's one of the bridges I use if it helps to visualize...
Click to expand...

For me, that is the bridge I would prefer to use 100% of the time, but ball positions and table layouts sometimes prevent it.

I think I have the most feel, control, and consistency with that bridge.
 
mwoods86 said:
Most of the time I have played with an open bridge, which works most of the time, though I know it isn't the best for draw or shots where you need some power. I've been working on making a closed bridge but I have some questions about it; Where should the tip of the index finger touch the thumb? should the thumb be resting on the table or elevated? When I make mine similar to photos I've seen the shaft passes through with ALOT of resistance, like talcum powder would be absolutely necessary or I'd get a blister.

I know everybody has their own special way of doing it, does anybody have any explanations as to the way they do it, or photos of their closed bridge? I'll post a photo of mine when I figure out how to get a good pic of it.
Click to expand...
FYI, lots of information on these topics (including video demonstrations) can be found here:

closed bridge variations
open bridge vs. closed bridge

BTW, a closed bridge is not inherently better for draw shots if your stroke is good. For more info, see:

draw shot technique advice

Enjoy,
Dave
 
I use a closed bridge 95% of the time, unless I am shooting over balls. I use the closed bridge on a lot of shots when the CB is on the rail too. However for some reason if I have a severe cut shot, I am more comfortable using an open bridge. I can't tell you why but I naturally lay down on the table with an open bridge on cut shots. Don't even consciously think about it.
 
There you go! Most closed bridges all vary a little bit. Just gotta figure out what's comfortable for you.
 
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