Where to hit the cue ball on break?

Question

I'm just learning to play and was shown by someone recently, where to place and aim the cue ball on a break, but can't remember whether they told me whether to use follow or stop - if they did at all. Can anyone tell me? Any other power advice for a break would help since I'm not a real strong shot. (Yet!)

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Answer 1

Dead center a 1/4 tip of draw fairly hard but not enough to lose control of the cue ball

Answer 2

Something for which even i came to Snooker and Pool in answers.yahoo !

Answer 3

I like to hit a little bit above the center.  It is very very important to follow through for a good break.

Answer 4

I'm not sure if you're referring to 8 ball or 9 ball (I use a different cue ball position and technique, depending on which game I'm playing).

I'll assume you're talking about the game of 8 ball:

I have actually come close to mastering making the the eight ball on the break quite consistently or coming very close, resilting in an instant win (unless you're playing in the APA or BCA where the 8 ball on the break, does not constitute as a win).

Even if the eight ball doesn't drop (into a pocket) on this break that I'm about to explain, you're almost sure to pocket at least 2-4 balls and spread the balls for an easy run-out.

#1: If you're right handed --- place the cue ball as close to the rail AND the "headstring" as possible on the LEFT side of the table --leaving enough room for a solid bridge and a smooth stoke.

#2: Stroke the cue ball LOW and on the right side of the cue ball -----a LOT of right spin.

#3: Aim at the second ball - just behind the head-ball (the top ball in the rack)

#4: Keep you cue stick as level as possible and keep your head down and place your feet in a position that allows for a solid stance.

#5: Do NOT JUMP UP when breaking! Stay down and follow throw, as if you're actually trying to hit that second ball with your cue stick. Follow through is crucial ---- do not raise your body or you stick up in the air for the life of you!

#6: Take a good backswing (staying steady and level) and swing through with ample power (keeping that cue stick level) Increase the speed of the stroke as you follow through on your break.  ---WHAMOOOO! (do NOT poke or jab the cue stick ...stroke the cue stick)

Priceless note here:

When you srtike the cue ball LOW, it will cause the object balls to "follow" or roll. If you strike the cueball HIGH, it will cause the object balls to sit still, and not roll and spread out.

Many players make the mistake of hitting the cue ball low, and having it pop off the table or bounce on the slate (table), or even fly over the balls and onto the floor. The key to preventing this from happening, is in your FOLLOW THROW and a LONG AND STEADY and POWERFUL STROKE THROUGH THE BALLS ---almost as if you're not even striking the cue ball, but focusing on striking that second ball --as you STAY DOWN AND FOLLOW THROUGH.

BE SURE TO CHALK UP WELL before your break, and before EVERY shot. Do not blow the chalk dust off of the tip of your cue stick. (ALWAYS place the cube of chalk back on the table chalk-side UP (right side up) it's proper etiquette and keeps the rails clean and the chalk in one piece). Never grab for the chalk after you have missed a shot. Leave it alone, and chalk up when you return to the table.

I mastered this break from watching a national champ who averaged 7 out of 10 8 balls made on the break. Once I saw how he did this, I immediately changed my 8 ball break, and now I average 3 of 7 eight balls on the break.

Good luck and keep on strokin' !!!

Answer 5

I usually hit the cue ball in the center or just below for most 8-ball/9-ball breaks. Sometimes I'll use a second ball break in 8-ball though (hitting the ball behind the head ball) and use low inside english instead. Otherwise, I aim to hit the head ball full on, no matter where I place the cue ball. Use as much power as you can control so you're sure to hit the cue ball where you want and the cue ball ends up where you want. Then increase your power as you get more consistent and confident with your stroke.

Answer 6

Just below center head on

Lori that is also called 8 in the side but not legal in tourn play 8 on the break is a spot or a rerack

we do have a competition for it but not inc in our tourns the best yet is a tie of 9 out of 10 I can usually get 7

Thats why its not allowed it would turn a match into a coin toss

Down at the bar it does count but what dont at a bar

Answer 7

About half a cue tip below centre.

Answer 8

You want to spend time hitting the cue ball in every possible position.  Each one will make you a better player.  If you just want the SLAM BAMM  break you will be aiming almost dead center with a slightly upward angle of the cue stick.  You can win at pool without a huge break.  Try doing it softly as you learn.