So I rarely gamble at pool, but have been meaning to start doing it more often, to improve and test my game. I decided that any time I play for money, I'm going to require rack-your-own with the money ball not counting on the break, even though I only really gamble cheap. This is a house rule on my home table, even playing for fun. I just think it's better.
I like this because it virtually eliminates the need for me to check the racks, and keeps my own conscience clear as well.
Hopefully I'll stick to this rule and not cave when gambling. We shall see. I suppose it's easier when the other person is soliciting the game, and when you don't feel like you have a huge advantage. I find it's harder when I consider my opponent a friend; I might worry that they think I don't trust them, but I still strongly prefer those two rules even when I completely trust my opponent, so I try to stick to it. I just think those two minor tweaks make 9-ball better, more fair, and less hassle, so it's a good habit to always play that way when possible, IMO.
Anyway, I'm curious how many other people make those two requirements when gambling.
Also, what other special rules do you establish prior to gambling, and do you ever cave and still gamble when the other person doesn't agree to these rules?
I like this because it virtually eliminates the need for me to check the racks, and keeps my own conscience clear as well.
Hopefully I'll stick to this rule and not cave when gambling. We shall see. I suppose it's easier when the other person is soliciting the game, and when you don't feel like you have a huge advantage. I find it's harder when I consider my opponent a friend; I might worry that they think I don't trust them, but I still strongly prefer those two rules even when I completely trust my opponent, so I try to stick to it. I just think those two minor tweaks make 9-ball better, more fair, and less hassle, so it's a good habit to always play that way when possible, IMO.
Anyway, I'm curious how many other people make those two requirements when gambling.
Also, what other special rules do you establish prior to gambling, and do you ever cave and still gamble when the other person doesn't agree to these rules?
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