cue extension vs bridge as tactical question

berlowmj

berlowmj

AzB Silver Member
Silver Member
Numerous threads discuss the availability of cue extenders, but there is minimal discussion on their role in the development of one's game.

1. Since ex-snooker players appear to do well with the bridge, is it better to be a purist & concentrate on developing proficiency with the bridge & forget the cue extender? Are there specific drills other than just putting balls out of reach & bridging?

2. Is the cue extender more natural & therefore worth incorporating into drills & using most of the time?

3. Does each weapon have a specific function in a player's arsenal? If so, please elaborate.
 
1. Since ex-snooker players appear to do well with the bridge, is it better to be a purist & concentrate on developing proficiency with the bridge & forget the cue extender? Are there specific drills other than just putting balls out of reach & bridging?

Some ex-snooker players...like Karen Corr for example, use both.

2. Is the cue extender more natural & therefore worth incorporating into drills & using most of the time?

Up to a point, the cue extender allows for a natural stroke which is why in SOME situations, even Corr, who is extremely proficient with the bridge uses the extension.

The problem with the extensions is this. Since the cue stick gets wider toward the butt end, as you stroke forward, that width forces the cue tip HIGHER resulting in tip-to-ball impact higher than where you plan.

That problem gets worse the farther you have to reach on a shot when using an extender...which is why most pros don't use them on long-reach shots.

IMHO, the extender is an excellent tool to use rather than trying VERY stretched out shots with the cue alone.

Having said that, I don't think the IDEAL extender has been designed yet (except for those made to be attached to a given cue). But I am working on the ideal design that can be used on any cue so stay tuned!!
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berlowmj said:
1. Since ex-snooker players appear to do well with the bridge, is it better to be a purist & concentrate on developing proficiency with the bridge & forget the cue extender? Are there specific drills other than just putting balls out of reach & bridging?
Click to expand...


Just go play snooker on a 12 x 6 - you will need both the bridge and the extension. When you get back to the pool table, either will seem simple:D :D :D
 
I was never a big fan of the bridge except for it's necessity for some reach out situation. If possible, I would rather stretch out my ass on the table or use my alternate hand for a shot. for me, cue extenders are better since it gives me the natural hold and shooting posture.
 
i think cue extenders are good, but only the short ones like around 6 inches or so. any longer and you lose control of the cue. the best extensions are the screw in type, more secure and less bulky than the push on ones.

other than that, practice with the bridge! i like the snooker x type bridge better than the pool bridges, most of which are too high and not good for draw shots. the moose head bridge is pretty good, i carry one in my case
 
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