Long stop shot

A stop shot when the cue ball and object ball are only 2 feet apart is easy, I agree. So let’s give them some distance. Now you really need a straight solid stroke, and understand how the the felt effects your speed control. Hit too lightly and you will scratch, hit off center and it won’t stop dead. Good Luck!

The long stop shot. A very important shot in pool and also a good indication to you, the player, if your aiming is straight and if you can use draw properly. On top of that it also tests your speed control / judgement.

Don’t take a shot like this lightly, if you can master this, then shorter distances will be a piece of pie. The object is to have the cue-ball stop dead in it’s track when it makes contact with the object ball. That means no stun action in either direction, no draw action bringing the cue-ball back towards you and definetly no follow action which could potentially cause you to scratch.

Important Drill 4

Don’t sweat it if you can’t get the cue-ball to stop dead. If you can make the shot without miscueing or scratching then your doing fine; move on to another drill.

Pool Ball Design

Strategic Implications of the Stop Shot

Understanding when and how to use the stop shot is crucial for game strategy:

  1. Maintaining Control: In games like 8-ball or 9-ball, controlling the table is paramount. By using stop shots effectively, a player can dictate the game’s pace, forcing the opponent to react rather than act.
  2. Setting Up Key Shots: In situations where the next ball is in a tight spot or when a specific angle is needed for the subsequent shot, a stop shot can be the perfect choice to set up that crucial play.
  3. Safety Play: If a player feels they can’t run out the table, they can use a stop shot to play safe, leaving the cue ball in a position that makes it challenging for the opponent to make a successful shot.

Common Misconceptions About the Stop Shot

Many beginners believe that the stop shot is merely about hitting the cue ball hard. However:

  1. It’s Not Always About Power: As mentioned, the force needs to be adjusted based on distance. A soft touch can be as effective as a hard hit, depending on the situation.
  2. Spin Matters: Unintentional side spins can alter the cue ball’s path. It’s essential to strike the cue ball cleanly.