US Open 9 Ball – A Costly Mistake That Many Make

March 20, 2024

Max Lechner was looking good but this tricky jacked up shot put Francisco Sanchez Ruiz ahead and he never looked back.

Any shot demands that we take in all information and then decide on execution.

Using the mechanical bridge over a ball is tricky because we are shooting down a bit and any side spin will cause an immediate and unforgiving curve of the cueball. Max tried to use left spin for position and overcut the purple (5 ball). Here’s a correction that can help.

Aim to pocket the 5

Now move the whole stick, including the bridge to the left for english. This is a parallel shift as both the front and back of the stick move.

This causes a slight push (deflection) to the right, neutralizing the curve caused by the sidespin. With just a little practice this may save you on a big shot and help you win a match!

SHOP POOL CUES

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About Corey Bernstein

Corey Bernstein is a competitive pool player, billiards equipment specialist, and co-owner of Quarter King Billiards in Wilmington, North Carolina. With over a decade of experience in the sport, Corey has competed in regional APA and BCA sanctioned tournaments and maintains an intimate knowledge of cue construction, shaft technology, and table mechanics. As a certified dealer for brands including Predator, McDermott, Jacoby, Viking, Lucasi, Meucci, Joss, and Cuetec, Corey personally tests and evaluates every cue that comes through the shop. His hands-on approach to the business means he has racked thousands of hours behind the table — breaking in shafts, comparing tip compounds, and dialing in the nuances that separate a good cue from a great one. When he is not behind the counter or on the table, Corey is researching the latest advances in low-deflection technology, carbon fiber shaft construction, and cue ball physics. His articles on Quarter King Billiards combine real-world playing experience with deep product knowledge to help players at every level find the right equipment for their game.

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