My Bridge Head

[DaveK]

OK, the cat is coming out of the bag, I hope it has some life ....

I had the idea for this bridge because of frustration using the conventional metal bridge head. I often brushed the top of interfering balls while cueing over them, I can't see the bottom of the shaft nor the top of the interference. Hey, I'm 5'5", what can I say ! I also have problems manouvering a metal bridge close to other balls, again they're hard to see. So, my bridge is transparent ! It really helps when you can see what you are trying to hit !!!

While making the first prototypes another innovation was added. I had problems getting backspin when using a conventional bridge. To help, I cleaned up the inner part of my house bridge and started cueing through the holes. Of course you can easily scratch up a shaft if you try this on some bridges, but in the transparent bridge there are holes for this purpose. In total the bridge offers 5 distinct cueing heights, 3 from the conventional rest shapes, and the other two from the holes (horizontal for a low bottom shot, vertical for a moderate-high rest).

The clamp works very nicely on tips from 10mm to 13mm. I'd be reluctant to put it on my 13mm plaing cue, but hey, that's what house cues are for ! An 11mm or 12mm tip is perfect. The inner linning is rubbery, and does not score or mark ferrules or shafts from what I've seen so far. The clamp is easily snugged down with a turn or two by hand, and comes off just as well.

I'd love to hear what you think of this bridge ...

Dave

 

[Shorty]

OK, the cat is coming out of the bag, I hope it has some life ....

I had the idea for this bridge because of frustration using the conventional metal bridge head. I often brushed the top of interfering balls while cueing over them, I can't see the bottom of the shaft nor the top of the interference. Hey, I'm 5'5", what can I say ! I also have problems manouvering a metal bridge close to other balls, again they're hard to see. So, my bridge is transparent ! It really helps when you can see what you are trying to hit !!!

While making the first prototypes another innovation was added. I had problems getting backspin when using a conventional bridge. To help, I cleaned up the inner part of my house bridge and started cueing through the holes. Of course you can easily scratch up a shaft if you try this on some bridges, but in the transparent bridge there are holes for this purpose. In total the bridge offers 5 distinct cueing heights, 3 from the conventional rest shapes, and the other two from the holes (horizontal for a low bottom shot, vertical for a moderate-high rest).

The clamp works very nicely on tips from 10mm to 13mm. I'd be reluctant to put it on my 13mm plaing cue, but hey, that's what house cues are for ! An 11mm or 12mm tip is perfect. The inner linning is rubbery, and does not score or mark ferrules or shafts from what I've seen so far. The clamp is easily snugged down with a turn or two by hand, and comes off just as well.

I'd love to hear what you think of this bridge ...

Dave

Nice idea Dave, but doesn't someone else already make a clear bridge or am I wrong? Also, your bridge relies on a stick, where mine does not =). A totally free standing bridge really makes manuevering much easier. I also think you may also want to consider that most people carry a 13mm+ stick as there break cue and your bridge may not fit it.

In all honesty though, this is a superb idea and would be great for people...I am just still partial to mine .

Shorty

 

[Purdman]

Nice idea Dave, but doesn't someone else already make a clear bridge or am I wrong? Also, your bridge relies on a stick, where mine does not =). A totally free standing bridge really makes manuevering much easier. I also think you may also want to consider that most people carry a 13mm+ stick as there break cue and your bridge may not fit it.

In all honesty though, this is a superb idea and would be great for people...I am just still partial to mine .

Shorty

Where is a picture of yours Shorty?
Purdman

 

[Jon]

OK, the cat is coming out of the bag, I hope it has some life ....

I had the idea for this bridge because of frustration using the conventional metal bridge head. I often brushed the top of interfering balls while cueing over them, I can't see the bottom of the shaft nor the top of the interference. Hey, I'm 5'5", what can I say ! I also have problems manouvering a metal bridge close to other balls, again they're hard to see. So, my bridge is transparent ! It really helps when you can see what you are trying to hit !!!

While making the first prototypes another innovation was added. I had problems getting backspin when using a conventional bridge. To help, I cleaned up the inner part of my house bridge and started cueing through the holes. Of course you can easily scratch up a shaft if you try this on some bridges, but in the transparent bridge there are holes for this purpose. In total the bridge offers 5 distinct cueing heights, 3 from the conventional rest shapes, and the other two from the holes (horizontal for a low bottom shot, vertical for a moderate-high rest).

The clamp works very nicely on tips from 10mm to 13mm. I'd be reluctant to put it on my 13mm plaing cue, but hey, that's what house cues are for ! An 11mm or 12mm tip is perfect. The inner linning is rubbery, and does not score or mark ferrules or shafts from what I've seen so far. The clamp is easily snugged down with a turn or two by hand, and comes off just as well.

I'd love to hear what you think of this bridge ...

Dave

Lexan?
Or Plexi?
Oh, and dammit...
Why did you post that
Now I have to make one

 

[DaveK]

Lexan?
Or Plexi?
Oh, and dammit...
Why did you post that
Now I have to make one

Lexan. And no, don't make one, it's much easier to just buy one from me ! PM me if you're interested at $15 , which will include postage.

Dave

 

[DaveK]

Nice idea Dave, but doesn't someone else already make a clear bridge or am I wrong? Also, your bridge relies on a stick, where mine does not =). A totally free standing bridge really makes manuevering much easier. I also think you may also want to consider that most people carry a 13mm+ stick as there break cue and your bridge may not fit it.

In all honesty though, this is a superb idea and would be great for people...I am just still partial to mine .

Shorty

I've not seen one before, and have done some looking over the last couple of years. If anyone knows of another like it please let me know.

It does fit nicely on my 13mm break cue (Dufferin Phantom). I just wouldn't use it with my playing cue, if that were even possible The clamp is spec'ed to almost 14mm. And besides, there is a nice selection of house cues available at most pool halls if needed.

I'm curious about your free-standing bridge Shorty, and agree with Don about you posting a picture ... please ? ... I showed you mine

Dave

 

[Shorty]

By Popular Request...

I do own what I call a poor man's patent on this...

Here is my bridge...critique if you will.

This particular version takes some welding and some knowledge of paints. It has worked the best of those I have been through over the last 20 years. I have really been going through iterations up until about 7 years ago when a buddy made me this version. I am in the process of showing this to someone with the idea of maybe marketing it. I am not looking to get rich...I just want to see if I can make it from a plastic composite perhaps so it does not ding up my cue so bad. I honestly want to give it away if I could, for disabled players. I have actually given away a couple and that gives me the most pleasure. Otherwise, this is really the best idea my father and I could come up with. My dad came up with this when I was about 13.

It is totally freestanding as I said, but does not let you shoot over balls. I have used a taller version and not only shot over balls, but also was able to jump with it.

What do ya think?

Shorty

 

[JimS]

Maybe sell the clear plastic one to the general public and provide freebees to disabled based on them proving they qualify for SSI? Maybe Medicaid will pay you for it

I can't figure out how the other one stands on it's own. I only see two legs where it seems that a tripod would be necessary to be free standing.

 

[DaveK]

It is totally freestanding as I said ....

I can see how it would work, it ends up on a tripod stance no matter how it is turned and placed on the table. Then it presents a selection of crotches on the top-side to rest the cue in. One side of the crotch will always be the larger center shaft, and the other side will be one of the smaller shafts. Is this how it is used ?

So how do you manouver it into position, poke it around with your cue ? And more importantly, how do you get it out of the way of the balls after your stroke. Occasionally, when the balls are close to rails, they want to slam into the bridge very shortly after impact. Without a stick on the thing I have difficulty seeing how it can be removed quickly. I'm sure you have that part figured out rather well. Perhaps you have a lovely assistant when you play ? I'm very jealous if you do

Dave

 

[Shorty]

I can see how it would work, it ends up on a tripod stance no matter how it is turned and placed on the table. Then it presents a selection of crotches on the top-side to rest the cue in. One side of the crotch will always be the larger center shaft, and the other side will be one of the smaller shafts. Is this how it is used ?

So how do you manouver it into position, poke it around with your cue ? And more importantly, how do you get it out of the way of the balls after your stroke. Occasionally, when the balls are close to rails, they want to slam into the bridge very shortly after impact. Without a stick on the thing I have difficulty seeing how it can be removed quickly. I'm sure you have that part figured out rather well. Perhaps you have a lovely assistant when you play ? I'm very jealous if you do

Dave

Just pick up your cue...the cue goes through the center of the hole...it slides within the tube in the middle...it is sort of a balancing act...but if anyone wants to play some one pocket and happen to be down the Florida way, I would gladly demonstrate it in action for a small fee of course...*smirk*. Hey...I said I am midget in a wheelchair, I ain't stupid.

Shorty

 

[DaveK]

Just pick up your cue...the cue goes through the center of the hole...it slides within the tube in the middle...it is sort of a balancing act...

Ahhhhhhh, suddenly there is light ! I had it all wrong before.... although I still like the idea of a lovely assistant

Dave

 

[pharaoh68]

Hey guys-

Yeah. There have been "clear" plastic bridges around for quite some time. (Although they're more translucent than transparent) MOst of them are old and really serve no purpose in seeing through the bridge itself. So in this case Dave, I'd say this bridge looks good.

HOWEVER...

I have to say that I would be hesitant to place the shaft of my cue through any plastic whole like that on virtually any shot because anything could happen, and if/when it does, dings and scratches all over the shaft. But that's just my opinion. Otherwise, this thing is lightyears ahead of the other clear bridges of seen. Very nice!

 

[Shorty]

Hey guys-

Yeah. There have been "clear" plastic bridges around for quite some time. (Although they're more translucent than transparent) MOst of them are old and really serve no purpose in seeing through the bridge itself. So in this case Dave, I'd say this bridge looks good.

HOWEVER...

I have to say that I would be hesitant to place the shaft of my cue through any plastic whole like that on virtually any shot because anything could happen, and if/when it does, dings and scratches all over the shaft. But that's just my opinion. Otherwise, this thing is lightyears ahead of the other clear bridges of seen. Very nice!

Just got the "Just-a-bridge" and let me say...WOW...that is one friggin nice bridge! Very adjustable and seems to be so versatile. The felt lined bridge areas are a great great idea. I am really looking forward to using it...out came the bridge dude, and I put the Just-a-bridge in my case.

Shorty

 

[landshark77]

Shorty,

Saw your bridge, it is very interesting. I was wondering if anyone has ever given you flack about using it in tourneys and what not, as it is a bit unconventional. If I am getting too much in your business, please tell me to mind my own. I am just interested because in a non-direct way it ties into my job.

Thanx.

 

[Zims Rack]

OK, the cat is coming out of the bag, I hope it has some life ....

I had the idea for this bridge because of frustration using the conventional metal bridge head. I often brushed the top of interfering balls while cueing over them, I can't see the bottom of the shaft nor the top of the interference. Hey, I'm 5'5", what can I say ! I also have problems manouvering a metal bridge close to other balls, again they're hard to see. So, my bridge is transparent ! It really helps when you can see what you are trying to hit !!!

While making the first prototypes another innovation was added. I had problems getting backspin when using a conventional bridge. To help, I cleaned up the inner part of my house bridge and started cueing through the holes. Of course you can easily scratch up a shaft if you try this on some bridges, but in the transparent bridge there are holes for this purpose. In total the bridge offers 5 distinct cueing heights, 3 from the conventional rest shapes, and the other two from the holes (horizontal for a low bottom shot, vertical for a moderate-high rest).

The clamp works very nicely on tips from 10mm to 13mm. I'd be reluctant to put it on my 13mm plaing cue, but hey, that's what house cues are for ! An 11mm or 12mm tip is perfect. The inner linning is rubbery, and does not score or mark ferrules or shafts from what I've seen so far. The clamp is easily snugged down with a turn or two by hand, and comes off just as well.

I'd love to hear what you think of this bridge ...

Dave

Dave- I think this is a great idea! I'm pretty sure there's something similar out there, but that has already been mentioned. I see many pros with this bridge model and only a couple of cons. 1) rough surface to place shaft on. It could scratch the shaft easily. This could be an easy fix by outlining the bridge and holes with a felt strip. I think you can buy 1/4" or 1/2" strips of felt that is self adhesive on one side. Place the felt around the bridge and in the holes and then use a razor blade to trip it close to the edge. Just a suggestion. Send me a PM or an email if you're interested in marketing these. I like it! I can see how it being clear is a selling point!

Great Job!
Zim

 

[Zims Rack]

I do own what I call a poor man's patent on this...

Here is my bridge...critique if you will.

This particular version takes some welding and some knowledge of paints. It has worked the best of those I have been through over the last 20 years. I have really been going through iterations up until about 7 years ago when a buddy made me this version. I am in the process of showing this to someone with the idea of maybe marketing it. I am not looking to get rich...I just want to see if I can make it from a plastic composite perhaps so it does not ding up my cue so bad. I honestly want to give it away if I could, for disabled players. I have actually given away a couple and that gives me the most pleasure. Otherwise, this is really the best idea my father and I could come up with. My dad came up with this when I was about 13.

It is totally freestanding as I said, but does not let you shoot over balls. I have used a taller version and not only shot over balls, but also was able to jump with it.

What do ya think?

Shorty

Shorty- Not a bad bridge for it's intended use. I can see possible problems with the "tube" scratching the shaft! As your shaft is stroking thru the tube with a slight bend or arc, doesn't it rub the tube, thus causing friction or drag on the shaft? Great idea and I think it's a nice useable gift for disabled players.

Good idea!
Zim

 

[Zims Rack]

Just got the "Just-a-bridge" and let me say...WOW...that is one friggin nice bridge! Very adjustable and seems to be so versatile. The felt lined bridge areas are a great great idea. I am really looking forward to using it...out came the bridge dude, and I put the Just-a-bridge in my case.

Shorty

I seen the Just-a-bridge in Chicago at the Mid West Expo! I just ordered 2 of them, one for me and one to sell! I think this is the best bridge on the market. I'll be selling these on my website real soon!

Zim

 

[Shorty]

Shorty,

Saw your bridge, it is very interesting. I was wondering if anyone has ever given you flack about using it in tourneys and what not, as it is a bit unconventional. If I am getting too much in your business, please tell me to mind my own. I am just interested because in a non-direct way it ties into my job.

Thanx.

Never had a single person give me one bit of flack. I have shot with these in a professional McDermott wheelchair tourney even back in 1995. I also currently play in an APA league with no problems. People realize that I have an extreme disadvantage having such short arms. I shoot with it on my cue all the time, whether its out on the table or snug down on my cue and using the extra weight to hold my cue down. You see, I play one handed...my left arm never really comes into play when I play. I use it to balance and position the bridge sometimes, but I don't play the conventional way because my bridge would be so close to the joint, it would be pointless, not to mention a cue is so thick at that point I would have to use an open bridge. A cue is also not meant be stroked across the joint as well. I tried to play with smaller cues and also longer cues, and I always end up back at a 58 inch cue. I was just so used to the regular cue that I could not play with anything else. I appreciate your concern, but I believe there is a BCA rule that says adaptations are allowed, as long as they are not an aiming device.

Shorty

 

[landshark77]

Never had a single person give me one bit of flack. I have shot with these in a professional McDermott wheelchair tourney even back in 1995. I also currently play in an APA league with no problems. People realize that I have an extreme disadvantage having such short arms. I shoot with it on my cue all the time, whether its out on the table or snug down on my cue and using the extra weight to hold my cue down. You see, I play one handed...my left arm never really comes into play when I play. I use it to balance and position the bridge sometimes, but I don't play the conventional way because my bridge would be so close to the joint, it would be pointless, not to mention a cue is so thick at that point I would have to use an open bridge. A cue is also not meant be stroked across the joint as well. I tried to play with smaller cues and also longer cues, and I always end up back at a 58 inch cue. I was just so used to the regular cue that I could not play with anything else. I appreciate your concern, but I believe there is a BCA rule that says adaptations are allowed, as long as they are not an aiming device.

Shorty

Thank you Shorty, I am glad that the pool world is more open than the golf world a few years ago. Again, sorry if I was getting too personal.

 

[Shorty]

Thank you Shorty, I am glad that the pool world is more open than the golf world a few years ago. Again, sorry if I was getting too personal.

No problem at all...I enjoy sharing with others my unique style. It also makes it easier in that I really can't pay for pool lessons, instructors really would have a hard time understanding my methods.

If you are really into how I play and what all I use and are ever on the east coast of Florida, stop by for a game. My home is always open to a friendly game of one pocket or nine ball or eight ball...or whatever....I just about play any game that involves balls rolling on a pool table.

Take care,
Shorty