When you begin to learn how to play pocket billiards, one of the first things you’ll learn is how to properly rack up all 15 balls at the beginning of a game. For those who are just starting out with the game of pool, racking the balls can seem like it’s an extremely complicated process yet it really is a very easy process. You’ll find that most people do not rack the balls in an optimal way and this affects the overall gameplay which can be quite frustrating for new players.
The purpose of properly racking the billiards balls is to create the best triangle possible with the balls. A good triangle will allow any starting shot to be straight on, reducing friction between the cue ball and rack which ultimately gives you more control over your game. Consistently creating this type of formation will give you an advantage when playing.
How to set up the pool balls
There are a couple of ways to set up the pool balls for racking. The easiest way is to put all 15 balls in a triangle at the head of the table with the one ball at each corner, and the nine ball placed in front of one of the side pockets. This makes it convenient for breaking, while also giving you the best chance at sinking the one and nine.
Know the rules of pool
Knowing the rules of the game is essential for racking pool balls. In most games, you have to have at least one ball that isn’t touching a rail or another ball on the table, and it can’t be underneath another ball. If you’re playing a specific kind of 8-ball, then obviously there’s going to be a little more to it than that, but for now just remember how to rack the balls.
Understand that you need to break at least one ball in order to win
This might not be obvious to someone who is just beginning, so it’s important to mention that you have to break at least one ball. If there are two or more solids, you’ll need to first knock out a solid. What determines whether the first break is successful is if any balls go in on the first shot regardless of what ball it is or if the cue ball goes in.
Learn about different types of shots – straight, bank, combination, and safety
It’s important to learn about different types of shots other than just breaking. Straight shots are simply hitting the cue ball straight on – you should know the basics of this shot by now. You also need to know how to bank, which is when you hit the cue ball at an angle so it bounces off a rail and into another object ball.
Get a cue stick – there are many styles available for purchase or rent
Find a pool hall nearby and ask if you can rent some equipment. Be sure to bring your own lock with you since most local establishments don’t provide them. If there’s not a pool hall close by, then try an online retailer of billiards equipment such as Pool Dawg . They have everything from the latest styles of pool.
Practice your game by playing against yourself or with friends
The best way to practice is by grabbing a newbie friend and playing some pool. Remember, if you’re just starting out then chances are good your friends will beat the pants off of you. That’s alright! Playing is all about having fun after all – it’s not really about who wins so much as getting better .
When shooting the 8-ball (last ball), make sure to hit it last so it doesn’t accidentally get pocketed by another player’s shot
This is one of the trickier parts of pool to learn. If you hit another player’s ball with your last ball, then it is considered their shot and they get to make the decision on whether or not to keep playing or give back that turn. Be sure never to shoot at an opponent’s ball!
Conclusion
The most important thing to remember when learning how to rack pool balls is that you’re having fun. It might seem like a lot of work and it may take some time, but you’ll get there eventually. Just keep practicing!
