Billiards Digest - Pool's Top Source for News, Views, Tips & More

Browse Features

Tips & Instruction
Ask Jeanette Lee
Blogs/Columns
Stroke of Genius
30 Over 30
Untold Stories
Pool on TV
Event Calendar
Power Index
Tournament News

BD Forums

Hottest threads from the Cue Chalk Board

• Video Encyclopedia of Pool Shots
• Official Cue Gallery Thread.
• Gluing on Tips
• What makes an APA SL7?

Nick Varner

Instruction Articles:

• Focus on Fundamentals

• Try the Rhythm Method

• Bridge to Success

• Joy in Repetition

• Getting Straight

Use Your Head

I’ve done this one for years (Diagram 1). Start with a full rack, break it open, and then designate one pocket, either A or B, for all of your shots. You can start with ball in hand or behind the headstring.

One of the biggest keys to improvement is sharpening your decision-making, and in this drill you have to think about position and figure out your pattern play. The further along you get, the greater the chances you’ll be out of position, so you’ll need to work on your shot making. And because you’re only using one pocket, there’s even some banking. It’s a pretty good all-around drill. If you can make 8 shots after the break, that’s pretty phenomenal.

Featured Video: Hogue’s Bank-a-thon
(courtesy Accu-Stats)

MORE VIDEO...

Want to try something exciting after a game of pool?
Play online bingo at Gala bingo and see for yourself how easy it is to win!

Since 1978, Billiards Digest magazine has been the pool world’s best source for news, tournament coverage, player profiles, bold editorials, and advice on how to play pool. Our instructors include superstars Nick Varner and Jeanette Lee. Every issue features the pool accessories and equipment you love — pool cues, pool tables, instruction aids and more. Columnists Mike Shamos and R.A. Dyer examine legends like Willie Mosconi and Minnesota Fats, and dig deep into the histories of pool games like 8-ball, 9-ball and straight pool.

122 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 1506, Chicago IL 60603
Phone: 312-341-1110 Fax: 312-341-1469