Has anybody read this book and used the information as described. Seems to be a fairly simple system to learn. Are their any drawbacks to his method? I got a used copy for $8 total. Haven't had a chance to seriously read it, just a fast once though. I'm wondering if it's worth my time to read and practice what's in the book.
http://www.amazon.com/review/produc...rtBy=bySubmissionDateDescending#RM50YS6EZA8T8
Editorial Reviews:
Product Description
This concise, fully-illustrated handbook reveals the one, two and three-rail kick shots you need to know if you hope to compete with the best pool players.
Customer Reviews:
Great book for advanced players, January 9, 2006
By Troy Harney (Chicago, IL)
Although this book's title doesn't really indicate it's true contents, it is certainly a clear and concise guide to "the diamond system" and 1, 2, and 3 rail kicks for the advanced pool player.
Contrary to a few other reviews I have read about this book on this site, I feel the shot descriptions and illustrations are very easy to follow and understand. One reviewer complained about the lack of explanation of concepts like running/reverse english, and that is true. The author tells you right up front that you need to already be familiar with the concept of english, as well as terms like long rail, short rail, and extended diamond, but he also explains them in the included glossary for you. The quote by one reviewer that "This book tells you nothing you cannot find out from another good player at a hall" is just an outrageous claim, unless the pros regularly hang out at your local pool hall.
If you are looking for a book about pocketing balls, improving your stroke, or how to execute a good draw shot, this is not the book for you. However, if you are an advanced player looking to de-mystify "the diamond system" and 1, 2, and 3 rail kicks, as well as banks, this IS the book for you. It is also very short and to the point, which is a plus in my book. There are many books on pool which cost three times as much as this, but don't divulge these seldom discussed advanced techniques.
By Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA)
Desmond Allen is a certified instructor with the Billiard Congress of America. In Win At Pocket Billiards, he draws upon his considerable expertise to provide the reader with a concise, profusely illustrated and instructive guide to all aspects of the game including how to pocket and kick balls, including one-, two-, and three-rail kick shots. Totally "user friendly", Win At Pocket Billiards is essential reading for the novice, and has a great deal to commend it to the attention of even the more experienced players.
Inconsistant, March 14, 2004
By E. LaBane "Retired" (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
I really liked the early part of the book, but inconsistancies occur in the methology as you progress into real game situations where you would seek position off the object ball. Although it's not great, it is still worth the cost to open your mind to new possibilities.
http://www.amazon.com/review/produc...rtBy=bySubmissionDateDescending#RM50YS6EZA8T8
Editorial Reviews:
Product Description
This concise, fully-illustrated handbook reveals the one, two and three-rail kick shots you need to know if you hope to compete with the best pool players.
Customer Reviews:
Great book for advanced players, January 9, 2006
By Troy Harney (Chicago, IL)
Although this book's title doesn't really indicate it's true contents, it is certainly a clear and concise guide to "the diamond system" and 1, 2, and 3 rail kicks for the advanced pool player.
Contrary to a few other reviews I have read about this book on this site, I feel the shot descriptions and illustrations are very easy to follow and understand. One reviewer complained about the lack of explanation of concepts like running/reverse english, and that is true. The author tells you right up front that you need to already be familiar with the concept of english, as well as terms like long rail, short rail, and extended diamond, but he also explains them in the included glossary for you. The quote by one reviewer that "This book tells you nothing you cannot find out from another good player at a hall" is just an outrageous claim, unless the pros regularly hang out at your local pool hall.
If you are looking for a book about pocketing balls, improving your stroke, or how to execute a good draw shot, this is not the book for you. However, if you are an advanced player looking to de-mystify "the diamond system" and 1, 2, and 3 rail kicks, as well as banks, this IS the book for you. It is also very short and to the point, which is a plus in my book. There are many books on pool which cost three times as much as this, but don't divulge these seldom discussed advanced techniques.
By Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA)
Desmond Allen is a certified instructor with the Billiard Congress of America. In Win At Pocket Billiards, he draws upon his considerable expertise to provide the reader with a concise, profusely illustrated and instructive guide to all aspects of the game including how to pocket and kick balls, including one-, two-, and three-rail kick shots. Totally "user friendly", Win At Pocket Billiards is essential reading for the novice, and has a great deal to commend it to the attention of even the more experienced players.
Inconsistant, March 14, 2004
By E. LaBane "Retired" (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
I really liked the early part of the book, but inconsistancies occur in the methology as you progress into real game situations where you would seek position off the object ball. Although it's not great, it is still worth the cost to open your mind to new possibilities.
