Considering the close quarters shooting in straight pool, would a shorter compact stroke make for better runs? What type of stroke did the big shooters use back in the day?
A question of stroke
- Thread starter POCKETWOLF
- Start date
i would say that back in the day, a more firm and deliberate stroke was used IMO. more likely that balls would stay grouped together closer since back then they didnt have the equipment that we now have. Such as Simonis Cloth and Aramith Balls.
So yeah there patterns were alot tighter so the use of that compact stroke was needed.
Of course i could be wrong though!
Steve
So yeah there patterns were alot tighter so the use of that compact stroke was needed.
Of course i could be wrong though!
Steve
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POCKETWOLF said:
QUOTE JIMS..A short bridge, choked up some on the handle and short stroke are going to produce more accurate results. END QUOTE
That's a very interesting question to me. Mosconi advocated a grip hand 3-5 inches behind the balance point and a relatively short bridge. Of course he was about 5'7" or so. I'm 6 ft and have long arms, a 35" sleeve length, and broad shoulders. Current instructors advise a vertical forearm at cue ball address, which places my rear hand at the very rear of the wrap on my pet cue, just ahead of the butt sleeve. Same instructors do suggest a shorter 9-10" bridge. Many pros use a 12-16" bridge but it's my belief that they have superior coordination anyway and that's what it takes to control it. Most of us are well served with a shorter bridge, especially in 14.1 where most of the shots are 4.5' or less.
Mosconi, Lassiter, Crane, Balsis, and many more used a rear grip forward of what you see nowadays. Closer to the balance point. Not having done a survey, but after seeing most of the best players in the world I don't think bridge lengths have changed any significant amount in the last few decades. At least not among 14.1 players. In truth, current top instructors are the best and most knowledgeable in the history of pool. The main game now is Nine Ball, but their instruction regarding fundamentals will form the best basis for all players regardless of the game.
At the risk of being redundant, a shorter than average bridge of about 9-10" will yield the best control especially in tight quarters, but the stroke arm needs to be vertical at the point when the tip of the cue almost touches the cue ball. The reasons are numerous and keep the cue level during your flow through the cue ball and your follow through...Tom
Excellent advice and insight from all 3. I hate to do it, but i think my stroke is a little long, and it's time for a change. But, like the best say, if you're not getting better you're getting worse. In your opinion, what players stroke would be best to try to emulate? I'm looking for an old school stroke, ie hall,varner,crane,balsis,lassiter, etc.... and lots of footage to be able to study. Hopefully, this move will improve results in other disciplines as well. Thanks for your help!
I would check out Danny Barouty, he has the best short game on the planet! IMHO
Steve Lipsky has been posting some videos of the 2 of them playing 14.1
from what i know he is going to keep posting them, he has some Great plans ahead on what he is going to be doing with the videos!
Steve
Steve Lipsky has been posting some videos of the 2 of them playing 14.1
from what i know he is going to keep posting them, he has some Great plans ahead on what he is going to be doing with the videos!
Steve
I'll keep an eye out, thanks.