"Phantom Finger" rail bridge (proper name PLS)

[Klopek]

I agree with Bob. This particular bridge is rarely used, or more accurately - rarely developed by a player. There are numerous variations of extended rail bridges, however, most of which need to be in your arsenal. I can think of at least 7 different open bridges I use when on the rail. I won't hijack the thread by describing them here, plus I'm pretty sure they will be in the Archives.

Yes, there are many open rail bridges but since I've never heard speak of the bridge I mentioned, thought I'd open a dialogue. There are many advantages to the bridge I mention, anyone that's actually used it would agree I'm sure. The bridge I mention may be rarely developed by players, but that doesn't mean that it's ineffective.

I really wasn't looking for advice on better rail bridge options. I just wanted to know who (if anyone) uses this bridge and how they feel about it.

 

[BRKNRUN]

In actuality my middle finger is about a half inch over from the shaft, not acting as any kind of guide. I wouldn't want the shaft rubbing along a finger as this puts unnecessary friction on the shaft. Much like the open bridge, just the "V" of my thumb and uppermost index knuckle are in contact with the shaft. The picture is just thrown together, not very accurate, just to show what I mean about the index finger being straight down.

Perhaps I chose the wrong word "rub"....In actuality...Its more like lightly touches...and it does not hinder shaft movement in any way...

Just one of the "many" ways to bridge off of the rail....

I prefer to use the "table grab" with the "thumb" down the side of the table and the first finger over the top of the shaft, but as the CB gets to close to the rail I move to the open "extended rail bridge"...For whatever reason the timing/tempo gets "lost" when the bridge length gets too short....I also tend to "shorten" the distance between grip and bridge for "tight" rail shots.

As far as names go...who knows...Since you saw Alex do that bridge first, perhaps you could call it the Lion Bridge

Other variations of names for the Rail Bridge are

The Four Finger V Bridge
The Three Finger V Bridge (the one you described)
The Two Finger V Bridge
The Thumb Tuck
The Rail Grab.
The Three Finger Loop Bridge
The Thumb Tuck Overlap

& Don't forget the Knuckle Bridge....

 

[CaptainHook]

Isn't this advice applicable to ALL bridge types?.

Rail Bridges for sure. It's just a little checklist I keep in my head for shots
like the one described. Just trying to help. It works for me.

 

[Scott Lee]

Do you recommend this even when the cue is frozen?

NaCLBandit...When the CB is frozen to the cushion, your bridge needs to be extended back, to allow for a reasonable backswing distance. In this case I will place my fingertips on the edge of the rail, and use either a closed loop or open hand bridge, to stroke through the CB.

Scott Lee
www.poolknowledge.com