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About Bill Newsted
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I can answer questions related to shot-making, aiming, position play, strategies, practice, mental preparation and the psychology of the game. Also, rules as they vary from venue to venue and how to become a winning player. I have experience recovering and maintaining tables and will also answer questions related to cues and billiard equipment. However, I prefer not to make brand recommendations.

Experience
I have played for forty years in every state in the US (except Alaska).My experience is largely in pool rooms but I have also played extensively on bar tables and in league organizations. I have directed numerous tournaments up to the professional level and have played several world champion players. I am a former Billiard Congress of America instructor.

Organizations
APA BCA

Education/Credentials
B.S. in Visual Communication M.A. in Education: Career and Technology Education

You are here: Experts > Recreation/Outdoors > Billiards > Pool/Billiards

Questions Answered By Expert Bill Newsted
In Category Pool/Billiards

Subject	Date Asked

Billiard equipment	10/8/2008
Q: I'm preparing to built my own billiard table. It will be 9 ft. Now I'm curious about its height. ... A: Drago, The World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) specifications for the height of a table used in ...
setting up the players to be sure they all play each other	10/4/2008
Q: How do you set up the rotation of players for a 16 person league...player one plays number 16, and ... A: Actually if you have 16 players you only have 15 weeks of play because nobody plays themself. If you ...
game name	10/3/2008
Q: We've been playing a game where all the balls are racked and the head ball is replaced with the ... A: Wow, this takes me back many years. I first learned that game in western Michigan back in the late ...
unmarked table	9/30/2008
Q: I was wondering how to determine the brand name of a used pool table if there are no markings. The ... A: Coincidentally, just a few days ago a reader named Pat sent me feedback on an Olhausen response I ...
Replacement Slate???Possible??	9/29/2008
Q: I have a one piece 8ft slate that is now two pieces :( ! Its an older table and the company who ... A: Interesting question, thanks. Sure, anything's possible. Not knowing the construction of the table ...
Billiard and Flooring	9/25/2008
Q: As an architect, I'm preparing the specs for a large, public-use billiard space with over twenty ... A: Interesting question, thank you. Many considerations here for sure but I can offer a couple of ...
Carom Subrail	9/21/2008
Q: I have find everything to build an 8 foot CAROM table (to play with three balls), except the ... A: Whether a carom table or a pocket table the angles are the same. The type of cushion being used and ...
olhausen table and rail removal	9/21/2008
Q: I have a 9ft Olhausen and have taken it down, removing the bed cloth. I have taken screws and bolts ... A: Well, the rails should be bolted to the table from underneath. Bolts go vertically through the ...
Billiards 8 ball shot	9/21/2008
Q: If a player has only the 8 ball left and makes the shot sinking it in the pocket called but then the ... A: That's a foul and loss of game in all sets of rules. The Billiard Congress of America (BCA) says it ...
Schmidt Streamliner Pool Table	9/12/2008
Q: My mom has a Schmidt Streamliner from the 1940s in her basement. It needs new felt, and has lost ... A: You don't say what size the table is but unless you just really wanted to unload it $100 is ...
palmer custom cue	9/7/2008
Q: i recently bought at auction the contents of a self storage unit; in it was a wood and glass case ... A: Sure Palmer cues were a popular item back in the late 60's and 70's. I remember them in the 80's ...
Pool rules	9/4/2008
Q: Three of us guys play pool everyday for about two hours. One of us breaks and when balls fall we ... A: Sounds like a fun game you're playing. In all forms of eight ball it is necessary to pocket the ...
Acceptable 2nd Fl. Flooring?	9/2/2008
Q: Not sure if you can answer this one or not but going to try. I have a table that I want to set up on ... A: Yeah it's really hard for me to say much on this one. You don't say what size the table is but if ...
level billiard table	8/28/2008
Q: What is the trick to leveling a pool table. I am trying to level my pool table and I am not doing a ... A: The only real secrets are a good level, flat slate, and thoughtful patience. Procedures vary ...
Potting	8/26/2008
Q: Question 1: Imagine. I have to pot solids (table is closed) and I call the 2-ball. I pot it in the ... A: That's a perfectly legal shot - and a real good one to practice. Often players will leave a ball ...
Potting	8/25/2008
Q: Question 1: Imagine. I have to pot solids (table is closed) and I call the 2-ball. I pot it in the ... A: As long as you hit a ball from your set first, and the ball you call goes where you called it, the ...
eight ball winning on the break	8/23/2008
Q: We play you win if the eight ball is potted on the break, the question is when another ball goes in ... A: The only current set of rules that considers making the 8-ball on the break a game winning shot is ...
what are nine ball rules	8/18/2008
Q: rules of nine ball are/.... A: There are several sets of rules in use for the game of 9-ball. Billiard Congress of America (BCA) ...
Antique Brunswick Pool Table	8/15/2008
Q: I'm currently in the Army and bought a pool table from an elderly couple in Colorado, now I live in ... A: First, let me thank you for serving in the Army. I can't tell much from the photo. I assume you ...
wrinkle in felt	8/11/2008
Q: I am recovering my table and when I opened the new felt and laid it out on the table, there are fold ... A: No need to iron it. The folds will pull out when you stretch the cloth. If they don't, you haven't ...
Important Pool Related Question	8/6/2008
Q: Two questions, really ... first, what is your favorite pool-related movie and, second, what is your ... A: What a great question! Thanks for asking. To me, without question, the quintessential pool movie is ...
dead rail	7/30/2008
Q: without buying a new rail? i took out the felt then reglued the the detatched chusion.. but it ... A: Well it's hard to say without looking at it. And you don't say what kind of table it is or how old ...
cue ball	7/29/2008
Q: If the cue ball is touching another ball in the center of the table and there is no direct shot for ... A: The requirement for any shot is that you cause the cue ball to make legal contact with an object ...
Cue maintenance	7/29/2008
Q: Hey Bill, I just bought a new Lucasi cue and I'm interested in correct shaft maintenance and I ... A: Usually new shafts come with a thin coat of gloss finish over the wood. Most players prefer to sand ...
A Brunswick Wellington	7/28/2008
Q: I am assisting my grandmother in selling her Wellington. It is missing the nameplate, the diamonds ... A: Well you'll have to find the right buyer. $6,000 is on the high end of what I would expect a ...
Swerve shots	7/28/2008
Q: How can i effectively play (1)swerve shots. A: Hmmm, swerve shots. I'm not sure how you mean to use that term. Squirt and swerve normally are used ...
8 Ball	7/27/2008
Q: While playing 8 ball I was blocked from hitting my solid ball. Since the 8 ball is a neutral ball ... A: Sorry Dan, no. The 8-ball is not a neutral ball. It can only be struck first after all balls in your ...
8 Ball Question	7/27/2008
Q: Bill, While playing 8 ball last night my opponent called "8 ball in the corner pocket". Before the ... A: You only need to call the ball and the pocket and get a good hit. No matter how the eight-ball found ...
pool ( pool 8- ball)	7/26/2008
Q: what are all the circumstances that dictates ball in hand, and after break can you place it any ... A: In most all amateur competitions and leagues that use the ball in hand rule the following would be ...
scratch	7/18/2008
Q: Newbie here. Is there an official name of the game where one player has the solids, and the other ... A: Sure. The game is officially called 8-ball in the Americas. In England they play a game that is ...
Billiards Golf	7/16/2008
Q: Is there an accepted 'standard' set of rules for Billiards Golf? We just learned to play by ... A: Yes, golf-pool is a game that varies considerably from area to area. Back in the 70's the Billiard ...
Convert snooker into pool table	7/14/2008
Q: I am new to pool gaming. I found a design of table I absolutely like, but it has got snooker ... A: There are some other differences between rails of pool tables and snooker tables. The balls used in ...
8 ball in China	7/14/2008
Q: I've got a cafe in China and want to put a pool table in to play american style 8 ball. The key is ... A: Based on the dimensions you provide it sounds like the cheap tables are snooker tables rather than ...
APA rules and etiquette	7/12/2008
Q: Is removing a ball from the pocket in preparation for the rack, during your opponent's presumed ... A: Generally pool etiquette is, "if it's not your turn to shoot, you shouldn't be at the table". You ...
Brunswick Monarch Cushion 12 ft. table	7/9/2008
Q: I have a Brunswick table that has been in the family for over 50 years. It is a 6 by 12 foot table ... A: Of course it's hard to say much without knowing the age, model, or condition of the table. Depending ...
Cushion problems	7/9/2008
Q: I have a Steepleton snooker table which I had cushions replaced about a year ago. Gradually ... A: Not sure what the weather is like where you are but I can say if it's hotter in the room now than it ...
Questions about pool table specs.	7/7/2008
Q: First of all, thanks for all the time you put into this site; I've already learned a lot from ... A: Geoff, Follow up answers... 1. In poking around various forums online, I read some people tout ...
Questions about pool table specs.	7/7/2008
Q: First of all, thanks for all the time you put into this site; I've already learned a lot from ... A: There is a question waiting for you in the category of "Pool/Billiards". Subject: Questions about ...
Snooker Rails	7/6/2008
Q: I have a circa 1960s 10-foot Brunswick Gold Crown AR 6100 billiard table that I would like to ... A: I just spoke with Ken Hash at Classic Billiards in Maryland. He has everything you need to convert ...
Pool - not improving...	7/6/2008
Q: I've been playing for a couple of years now but only as of a few months started getting serious. ... A: The longer the shot the smaller the margin of error. The thinner the cut the greater the importance ...
What size level to use	6/29/2008
Q: I have learned so much from this forum. I purchased and moved an 8ft olhausen and am planning to ... A: Glad to hear you've picked up a couple of things here. Working on pool tables provides for a better ...
Pool Table	6/27/2008
Q: I grew up playing on a Brunswick anniversary addition table from the 1950's, it is a great table! I ... A: Yes, Brunswick specs agree with your description. Nine-foot table, one inch slate, superspeed ...
Pool Table	6/27/2008
Q: I grew up playing on a Brunswick anniversary addition table from the 1950's, it is a great table! ... A: Well the Anniversary model got loads of publicity as Brunswick celebrated 100 years in business and ...
Piecing slate back together	6/26/2008
Q: I just bought a used pool table and I was hoping to refelt it this weekend. In the move of course ... A: No, you don't want to use epoxy on the slate. There are three materials popularly used to fill the ...
Replacement Shaft for Cuetech Break/Jump Cue	6/25/2008
Q: Hey, I recently lost the middle shaft for my Cuetech Break/Jump Cue. Does anyone know where I can ... A: Looking for "part" of a cue huh? Unless you just happen to get lucky at ebay my best thought is to ...
pool table	6/25/2008
Q: distance from back cussing to line on pool table and the distance from the other cussing to the dot A: Of course the exact measured distance varies with the size of the table. In American Pool games the ...
Billiard Balls & Table measurements	6/20/2008
Q: I am looking for one of the best quality billiard ball sets for my 9' table. I am definitely looking ... A: It depends on the type of table and cushion profile required. Old Brunswicks, among some others, ...
Billiard Balls & Table measurements	6/19/2008
Q: I am looking for one of the best quality billiard ball sets for my 9' table. I am definitely looking ... A: The most common set of balls for use in professional play is the Super Aramith Pro Billiard Balls. ...
cue tip preparation	6/15/2008
Q: I just bought a new table with a fairly nice set of pool cues, but I am miscueing every time I try ... A: Yes, new tips always need to be sanded and shaped. There are many devices made for scuffing, shaping ...
Where to buy replacement slate	6/14/2008
Q: I've got a 4 1/2 x 9 Brunswick Sport King table. The slate has several cracks with one corner being ... A: I would first contact a Brunswick dealer and ask them how much replacement slate would cost. You can ...
nine ball rule	6/8/2008
Q: Player is awarded ball in hand. Can a measuring foul be called on player during placement of cue ... A: Yes. You have to be careful when placing the cue ball on the table. While placing the cue ball if ...
Pool table for beginners	6/5/2008
Q: I'm a beginning player. So I have no skills in rating a pool table or cue. In the last years I ... A: I'm pretty much a purest when it comes to pool tables and equipment. If I were spending my own money ...
One-Pocket	6/5/2008
Q: I have been playing one-pocket for about a year now and I still have a lot to learn. I think my ... A: Aggressive players often lose in one pocket. I don't know any quality players that try to make a ...
16 players double elimination	6/5/2008
Q: in a 16 players double elimination flow chart, why does the loser of B1 stays in the upper bracket? ... A: It's just done that way to avoid having the same players play each other too soon. Let's say, for ...
Joint size	6/2/2008
Q: i write to you from Switzerland so excuse my potentials English errors... I have a Griffin cue and i ... A: Yes, it would be disappointing to order the wrong size. Predator shafts are available in both sizes ...
Separating Slate	6/2/2008
Q: I am moving a table and need to separate the slate but that seems to be impossible, how can I do it ... A: The slate is screwed to the wooden frame of the table so you'll first have to remove those screws. ...
New Cue	5/26/2008
Q: I am looking at buying a new cue for no more than $500. I have been looking at meucci's with ... A: Hey Mike, There are several companies making shafts that are laminated in one configuration or ...
Removing felt from slate top billiard table	5/22/2008
Q: Bill,I am a Professional Fire fighter in Geelong, Victoria, Australia. We are moving to a new ... A: G'Day Simon, Yes, you'll need to pull out the tacks and take off the cloth. If the table surface ...
Predator shaft	5/17/2008
Q: I have a Schon STL1 series cue and was wondering about getting a Predator shaft for it. What are ... A: The Predator shafts have a particular "hit". Stiff and relatively deflection free. If you like the ...
safe shot in 8 Ball	5/16/2008
Q: If a player calls safe and does not attempt to contact one of his object balls, but does hit a ... A: If the table is not "open" that would be a foul. After the choice of groups has been made, calling ...
Scratching in 8-Ball	5/13/2008
Q: My dad and little brother insist that if a player scratches and the other guy doesn't have a ball on ... A: Well that's an interesting twist I've not heard before. Over the years official rules about what ...
Gift for husband, Halex or Sportscraft or another brand?	5/12/2008
Q: My husband is not a pro, but he mentioned that he would like to carry his own pool cue one day when ... A: Sure. The length is standard - everything is 58 inches long (plus or minus a half inch) unless it ...
Jumping a ball hitting under cue ball.	5/8/2008
Q: I know there are no standard 'bar house rules', but is intentionally hitting under the cue ball, and ... A: Of course in bars all kinds of things pass as "legal shots". But in any serious competition using ...
billiards	5/6/2008
Q: my name is michael iam 15 years old and i have been shooting pool for 2 years i can beat everyone in ... A: Good solid fundamentals and lots of practice are what make a great player. Don't aspire to beat your ...
Three Ball	5/6/2008
Q: What is the baest way to break in three ball? A: Now there's a good question! Like all break shots you want to end up with the cue ball in the ...
8 ball	4/30/2008
Q: If Im going for the 8 ball on the last shot and I dont even hit the 8 ball at all(miss hit) is this ... A: Over the years there have been many variations on how to play the situation you describe. Some ...
8-ball Foul Penalty (history)	4/28/2008
Q: I have gotten into many arguments about the "new" rule where the opposing player gets ball in hand ... A: Of course there are now several recognized sets of rules for eight ball. They have all adopted the ...
cues	4/24/2008
Q: if u had only $900 , and wish to purchase the best technology and cue for this price , considering ... A: I'm not convinced there's a benefit to the construction of the butt of a cue. As long as it is ...
cues	4/23/2008
Q: if u had only $900 , and wish to purchase the best technology and cue for this price , considering ... A: Really hard for me to answer except from my own personal preferences. The items you mention are all ...
Potting red and yellow off the break	4/21/2008
Q: I was juse wondering if you could help. I am unsure about how play continues if, in 8 ball pool, ... A: Sounds like you're playing in the U.K. There are several sets of rules for 8-ball but I'll answer ...
Pool	4/16/2008
Q: If u knock the eight ball in on a break does that mean u win or loose? A: That's question that comes up a lot. I depends on what set of rule are in use. According to the ...
pool ques	4/11/2008
Q: I was wondering what the regulation pool que sizes are for billiard tournaments, if any. I recently ... A: 58 inches is the most common length and everything I can think of is between 57 and 59 inches. There ...
wellington brunswick	4/11/2008
Q: i read that you have a wellington and was hoping you could help me out! my family is selling our ... A: Yes, a very large ballpark indeed. I assume you have a Wellington model. Of course it depends a lot ...
cueball	4/7/2008
Q: as i use to always look at the object ball last and have do so all my life the problem i have with ... A: Andy, I'm tempted to say, "go with whatever works for you". I used to be a player who looked up at ...
cueball	4/6/2008
Q: as i use to always look at the object ball last and have do so all my life the problem i have with ... A: Most all fine players look at the object ball when they stroke, masse and jump shots being usual ...
leveling table	4/6/2008
Q: We moved a Great American, coin operated, pool table without taking it apart. Now it is no longer ... A: The Great American coin-op tables I have seen have always been a single piece of slate so I doubt ...
mass'e questions	4/3/2008
Q: hey hows it going i was wondering how to masse without hitting the table i have tried at my local ... A: Hmmm, well there are several questions here. The only thing hard about masse shots really is we ...
question about pool table	3/31/2008
Q: we just re-clothed our pool table and need to now the mesuremnts for the bulk line and the spot for ... A: Of course the exact measurements depend on the size of the table but the short answer is: 1.) the ...
Stipes and solids Pool	3/24/2008
Q: When your opposing player is trying to hit the 8 ball for a win, and you have the cue ball well ... A: I assume you are playing by a standard set of rules BCA, WPA, etc. If a player is in a position ...
size of room for billiards table	3/16/2008
Q: I have an 8 ft table in a room that gives me at least 5 1/2 feet of room on each side. However on on ... A: Not sure of the exact position of the columns but sometimes those can be moved a foot or two without ...
what style cushion?	3/8/2008
Q: I'm in the process of replacing the existing cushions on a Bill, 20yr old Olhausen table. The ... A: From what you have said I believe you had full profile K66 cushions on that table. Assuming they ...
what style cushion?	3/7/2008
Q: I'm in the process of replacing the existing cushions on a Bill, 20yr old Olhausen table. The ... A: Hmmmmm, well, 1 3/16 is K66. K55 would be a little more than 1 1/4. If you have a "full profile" ...
what style cushion?	3/7/2008
Q: I'm in the process of replacing the existing cushions on a Bill, 20yr old Olhausen table. The ... A: To be clear, let me start by saying that K55 and K66 or two very similar types of rubber cushions. ...
shotmaking - BTW	3/3/2008
Q: I just recently came across an aiming method called the hal houles aiming system. What is you ... A: FOLLOW UP Know that Houle's method assumes the cue ball and the object balls are the same size. If ...
covering cushions	3/2/2008
Q: I read one of your other replies about recovering cushions. You mentioned folding the felt at the ... A: Well I'll try, sure. Cloth is normally secured by a feather strip on the rail. The cloth is then ...
felt	2/29/2008
Q: I am purchasing a 4 year old used 8' Olhausen that has Championship Titan cloth already on it (in ... A: Well, I'm kind of a practical guy. I'd say keep the Titan cloth and play on it for awhile. It ...
open table rules	2/28/2008
Q: After the break when the table is open can you legally make a solid, then after call stripes? A: Unless the solid ball you refer to was made on the break shot itself, the answer is no. In most ...
Jumping	2/24/2008
Q: I have been attempting to perform a jump shot and cannot seem to clear a ball. My technique is to ... A: Sounds like the angle your using (45 degrees) may not be enough for the 6 inch distance you're ...
Rules of 8-Ball, foul shots	2/18/2008
Q: Standard game of 8-ball, World Standardized Rules apply (I think). Player at the table makes a legal ... A: I understand. I'd print out both sets of rules and ask THEM to show YOU where it says anything about ...
Rules of 8-Ball, foul shots	2/18/2008
Q: Standard game of 8-ball, World Standardized Rules apply (I think). Player at the table makes a legal ... A: Sure, you can download a copy of the WPA world standardized rules at: ...
calling "in and safe" before a shot is made	2/17/2008
Q: Does the "in and safe" call refer to only 8-ball or mayit be dalled in straight pool and 9-ball as ... A: I always feel the need to qualify my responses about rules of play. There are several sets of ...
Rules of 8-Ball, foul shots	2/16/2008
Q: Standard game of 8-ball, World Standardized Rules apply (I think). Player at the table makes a legal ... A: First let's answer your questions... a. After pocketing his object ball, the cue ball caroms off ...
Pool Table	2/12/2008
Q: my question is about my home table it is about 4 years old it is an 7 ft olhousen table. All the ... A: Hard to say without seeing it happen and rolling some slow balls to test it. Of course there are ...
apa rules	2/11/2008
Q: I have been shooting pool off and on for about 15 years, I am 22 years old. I have recently joined ... A: You don't say what the final outcome of the game was. Who won? You're not still playing are you? :-) ...
Rules for Lat Pocket 8 Ball	2/8/2008
Q: I just had a conversation with my Dad, and we were looking for rules on Last Pocket 8 Ball. Are ... A: I get questions about last-pocket 8 ball from time to time and I have played it many times. But, as ...
8 ball	2/7/2008
Q: If Im going for the 8 ball on the last shot and I dont even hit the 8 ball at all(miss hit) is this ... A: On this point the various sets of rules do not agree. In American Pool Players Association (APA) ...
8 ball	2/7/2008
Q: If Im going for the 8 ball on the last shot and I dont even hit the 8 ball at all(miss hit) is this ... A: The Billiard Congress of America (BCA), The World Pool and Billiards Association (WPA) and the ...
Mental techniques	2/5/2008
Q: I noticed that sometimes I am playing very well but if I miss 1 or 2 balls in the same game, It ... A: I knew a truly world-class player who used to say, "there's not tricks to pool, there's just hitting ...
Pool table/company history	2/5/2008
Q: I just bought an antique pool table built by Merle & Heaney Mfg Co. It appears to be about 100 years ... A: Yes, I've heard of them. They were a high quality low volume manufacturer circa 1900. If memory ...
Mind Set	2/4/2008
Q: Apparently this seems to be my biggest problem in the game. I've learned all of the basics and have ... A: No doubt different playing situations come with their unique types of pressure. Consider the ...
light for a pool table	1/30/2008
Q: The light above my pool table isn't bright enough and I think getting the perfect replacement would ... A: No doubt bad lighting will hurt your game. You don't say what size table you have or what kind of ...
cuetec maintinance	1/29/2008
Q: I just bought my girlfriend a Allison Fisher Series cuetec cue. It's a fiberglass cue which I am not ... A: Cuetec offers a cleaning solution named "High-Tech" that they recommend to clean sticky Cuetec ...
Multiple play 8 Ball	1/22/2008
Q: I play APA and want to know if I have one ball remaining on the table and the 8 ball. On my shot I ... A: In APA play the eight ball always has to be played on a completely separate shot. Any way the ...
damaged slate	1/21/2008
Q: I have a quarter sized chip at the seam, between two pieces of slate. Can I fill with beeswax or can ... A: If beeswax has been used to finish the seams of the slates it's probably your best bet. Depending on ...
8 ball rules	1/19/2008
Q: There are just three balls on the table. The cue, the 8 ball and the 11 ball. The player with just ... A: Assuming the player called the eight ball in the pocket where it fell and the cue ball didn't ...
care of felt	1/18/2008
Q: How is the best way to clean the felt and keep it in tip top shape? Is there a special brush or ... A: I generally recommend vacuuming the table cloth rather than brushing. Brushing tends to push chalk ...
Slate	1/17/2008
Q: I am looking at a Brunswick Wellington. It has one broken slate (end piece cracked from one side to ... A: Interestingly enough I have a Wellington myself that I reconditioned a couple of years ago. Hard to ...
Eight Ball ?	1/14/2008
Q: Can I hit my opponents ball first to make my ball in, like a combo shot. I know if I hit the ... A: The problem is there are many variations in the rules for 8 ball. It's always best to learn the ...
pool question	1/7/2008
Q: my friend and I play a very competitive game of pool, and recently there was a diffrence in ... A: Good question. Seems like if you and your friend have played a lot together this would have come up ...
pool technique	1/6/2008
Q: I'm having trouble with long shots and would like some advice on aiming and stroke A: Yes, well, long shots are really unforgiving of any errors in aiming and stroke. My best guess, ...
9 ball clarificartion	1/3/2008
Q: It is clear that it is legal to combo the lowest numbered ball into the 9 ball and, even by luck ... A: Yes. Any possible way the nine goes in any hole on an otherwise legal shot is a win. Also, ...
eight ball break	12/31/2007
Q: on an eight ball break if the 11 ball goes off the table is this still a win or is it a loss? A: This would vary a bit from one set of rules to another. But, in Billiard Congress of America (BCA) ...
draw shot on a new table	12/30/2007
Q: Greetings Bill, i just brought a new pool table from Costco...Minosota Fats 7.5 REGULATION.First i ... A: According to the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) to dimensions of corner pockets should be ...
last pocket	12/20/2007
Q: if a player from the other team makes the other teams last ball in and there last ball in different ... A: Well, they do call it last pocket. :-) There really aren't "official" rules for "last pocket" ...
apa nine ball ruling	12/15/2007
Q: if a player takes a shot at the object ball it hits the bottom rail travels the length of the table ... A: Fortunately this doesn't come up very often. The APA rules for 9-ball say, "Any balls moved ...
7' versus 8'	12/13/2007
Q: This has probably been asked many times before, but here goes. 8' foot table clearance for 48" cues ... A: The best, and simplest way to figure space needed for a pool table is to add together the length of ...
called shots	12/11/2007
Q: if your oppent call his ball in the corner off my ball but my ball drops first then his. is that ... A: If he called his ball, hit one of his balls first, and made the ball he called it is a legal shot. ...
8 ball	12/8/2007
Q: Player total misses the 8 ball on his last shoot. Dose he lose? A: No, not unless he scratches. He just loses his turn. According to BCA or APA rules the incoming ...
How To Properly Stroke In Billiards	12/7/2007
Q: I am Having a Bit of a Problem Because Each Time I stroke the Cue Ball My Cue Seems To Be Going off ... A: Anytime the cue doesn't travel in a straight line there's a problem with basic body and arm ...
Scoring	11/30/2007
Q: I would like to know how you score points in 9-BAll? Do you make and add points by the number on ... A: In the standard game of nine ball no points are tallied, whoever makes the nine ball on a legal shot ...
Large vs small play	11/29/2007
Q: Apparently many people believe that playing on smaller tables is easier than larger tables. Is it ... A: Interesting question. I guess you'd have to operationally define "easier". Certainly the average ...
9 ball	11/25/2007
Q: I am an excellent 8 ball player and my shots are all consistent. I have all but mastered english, ... A: I'm sure there are thousands of fine players who wish there was a simple answer to your question. ...
brunswick 1963	11/24/2007
Q: I own a 1963 brunswick table "celebrity". I would love to know the value of it. I have researching ... A: I have two good and knowledgeable people that I contact regarding the estimated value of older ...
tournament charts	11/23/2007
Q: Can you help me understand how to fill out an 8 ball double elimination chart A: Okay, sure. Charts come in various sizes that are in powers of two. Eight (2 to the third power), ...
Slate repair or replace.	11/22/2007
Q: I have an 8' 3 piece slate table with one damaged slate. Can it be repaired? I have pictures if ... A: It would be best for me to look at pictures of the broken piece before I respond. I have repaired ...
shooting the eight ball	11/21/2007
Q: Can you combo off the other persons ball when shooting the eight ball,for the game winning shot? A: Mike, I'm thinking you mean carom off the other players ball because you can't hit your opponent's ...
carpet	11/20/2007
Q: I know that puting a carpet under a pool table is just to highlight or offset the table in the ... A: You're right, advertisers are not pool players. Well, its always easy for me to say what I'd do so ...
Hitting the rail	11/18/2007
Q: If my cue ball hits my target ball, which then hits my opponent's ball which hits the rail, but ... A: No, that's a legal shot. Anytime you hit one of your balls first and then ANY ball from either ...
Cue tip shaping and table lighting	11/13/2007
Q: I have two questions. First, I recently purchased a pool table for my home but I need to install ... A: I recommend a lighting fixture with 4 elements on an eight foot table. You can get by with three but ...
Sampaio Cue	11/9/2007
Q: I recently purchased an elaborate/premiere Sampaio Cue, and it is in need of refinishing. Due to the ... A: By "needing direction" I assume you mean about having the cue refinished. If I were doing it I'd ...
sampaio pool cue	10/29/2007
Q: I have a sampaio pool cue.It is made out of maple.It has a leaf and dimand pattern.It has two ... A: You'll want to find somebody with a copy of "The Blue Book of Pool Cues" and find the best match to ...
Rules of 8 ball game	10/25/2007
Q: 1)Its a call game right.So do we have to start calling after the break or do we have to call after ... A: Honestly, your rating of my response to your questions has insulted me to the point that I think I ...
refelting table	10/24/2007
Q: I recently tried refelting my table on my own. For the most part, it looked great. Where the ... A: Burn marks on table cloth are caused by the heat of friction. Usually they are most obvious where ...
Correct height of pool table	10/23/2007
Q: What is the correct height of a pool table from floor to top of the rail? It seems that different ... A: Because the shape of rail can vary from table to table, pool table height is measured from the floor ...
identity and value of cue	10/23/2007
Q: I no nothing about pool except how to play just a little bit in a bar...and that if you're going to ... A: Okay. Well, a picture speaks a thousand words they say. If you send me a couple or three photos of ...
BEESWAX	10/20/2007
Q: CAN BEESWAX BE USED ON A HEATED CAROM TABLE AND IF NOT WHAT IS THE BEST FILLER TO USE? A: Good question, thank you. Beeswax becomes unstable at about 120 degrees F and liquifies at 147 ...
Subrail angles to install K55 & K66 rubber	10/17/2007
Q: .. this is my first post and I haven't found the answer to my question in any searches in ... A: glad to hear your making your own table. First let me say, if there is no cloth on the rubber ...
cue maintenance	10/15/2007
Q: i dropped my cue on the floor and the shaft has a ding on it. i was told to use very thin ... A: It depends on the type of shaft really. Here's what has worked for me many times. If your working ...
Disassembly Advice	10/11/2007
Q: I recently moved from North Carolina to California...When I moved the movers had a pro come in to ... A: You don't say what kind of table you have or how the cloth is attached so I'm phrasing my response ...
josswest web site	10/11/2007
Q: I used to get josswest homepage years ago where I could customize a josswest cue & see existing cues ... A: I talked to Bill Stroud a couple of months ago. He said he sold his old domain because he has ...
Brunswick-Balke-Collender 1880's	10/10/2007
Q: Hey Bill, I have what most believe to be a BBC Circa 1880's. There has not been a single expert ... A: What do I suggest you do? Well rack 'em up and play some darned pool! Sorry, I couldn't resist ...
should a table be installed on thick carpet	10/9/2007
Q: I just purchased my first 9 foot table, and I would like to save the expense of installing a new ... A: I wouldn't worry about the carpet - save your money for accessories. I have played in many rooms ...
Rack	10/6/2007
Q: Can you tell me where exactly on my table I place a new spot to place the rack for break? Thanks A: Okay. The spot belongs on a point that is half the width of the table as measured between the points ...
Different types of cues	10/5/2007
Q: What's the difference between wood, graphite and titanium cues. Some are "name brand" and some are ... A: There are as many opinions as there are players I guess. Your question is really, "for the average ...
New Table Installation Problem	10/5/2007
Q: I had a new table, the Brunswick Bristol, installed in August. (3 piece slate, laminate over ... A: A properly installed Brunswick usually doesn't go out of level, but it does happen. And it sounds ...
slow play rule	10/4/2007
Q: I am just wondering if there is an actual rule on the time frame alloted for a player to take his ... A: Yes, well some players do play more slowly than others. And it seems that some of them use that as a ...
aramith balls	10/3/2007
Q: on the aramith site it says "be careful of imitations" hot can i tell if the aramith ball is real. A: For quite some time there have been sets of balls packaged to look like the Aramith sets. These are ...
draw shot	10/2/2007
Q: I'm returning to shooting but having difficulty on drawing the ball,I understand pushing through the ... A: Glad you're getting back into the game. We've missed you. Sounds like you might need a new tip or ...
Value of a National Billiards pool table	10/2/2007
Q: I have a National Billiards pool table (model # 13572). I talked to an antique dealer who claims ... A: Well, National Billiards is still in business. I would suggest you contact them and learn what you ...
Pool Table Felt Cleaning	10/2/2007
Q: I just purchased a used pool table and the felt still looks like it is in good shape, except for ... A: Most cloth has a high wool content and wouldn't be well suited to standard washing machine and ...
Jackie Gleason pool cue	10/1/2007
Q: I have a cue stick made for Mr. Gleason from a Miami Beach, Do you know who may have made this cue ... A: In rereading your question is occurs you may have been asking about a cue maker in the Miami area. ...
cue tip	9/29/2007
Q: I'm sure you've answered dozens of similar questions on pool tips, so apologies if this is another ... A: Hey Brandon, Thanks for the question. Tips vary in quality, and change over time, as you have ...
push put	9/28/2007
Q: Please explain to me what a "push out" is, and why it would be called in the first place. A: Push out is a defensive move used to try to avoid giving your opponent "ball in hand". In nine ...
Installing new bumpers	9/27/2007
Q: I have a table where one of the bumpers is 'dead'. How does one install a new bumper? It is a ... A: Your dead bumper could be hardened or it could just be loose. There is a certain amount of clay used ...
subrails	9/27/2007
Q: I had some water damage to my Steepleton snooker table which caused the two of the sub rails to ... A: Yes, if you have woodworking experience and tools you should be able to cut sub rails without too ...
felt	9/25/2007
Q: i had just put new felt on my pool table, should i use scotch-gard on my new felt? we have three ... A: Tough call. Perhaps it's a good opportunity to teach lessons about responsibility and caring for ...
re-covering	9/25/2007
Q: I recently purchased a used table and am in the process of assembling it, I was hoping to get some ... A: It's hard to give specific advice without seeing the table. Gluing and stapling are the two methods ...
8 ball last pocket	9/24/2007
Q: So here's is the situation: I am playing eight ball with last pocket rules. Say I sink my last ... A: Last pocket is a "non-standard" game with no current official rules. It's been years since there ...
Flooring recommendation for the room	9/22/2007
Q: We are installing a pool table in an unfinished room over the garage and are trying to decide on the ... A: A solid pool table can be leveled nicely on just about any stable surface. Although seams in carpet ...
Pool table markings	9/20/2007
Q: I am new to owning a pool table and have only played pool for fun, and I was reading your answers ... A: Just so I'm sure I'm being clear. The baulk line and D are only used in the game of Snooker and are ...
Random questions	9/20/2007
Q: I am doing a project for school. I would like to know a couple questions. Why is a pool table ... A: Your first question is kind of a stopper. I'm not sure if anybody knows why a pool table is ...
simonis	9/19/2007
Q: yes sir i have been covering tables for a short time and have not had any problems until every one ... A: Here are my thoughts. Of course there are several variables that come into play here. The people I ...
Shape of a cue tip and logic behind legal shot rule	9/18/2007
Q: Bill, I've been dying to get answers to these two questions: 1. What shape is ideal for a cue ... A: 1) A flat tip is fine if you're hitting the cue ball in the center. But if you want to hit the cue ...
Rules	9/17/2007
Q: A few days ago I had asked a question about a pool tournament that I am running. I charge $5 a ... A: I responded privately to your question the other day. Perhaps the system had difficulty sending my ...
Table Construction, wood types	9/16/2007
Q: How important is the type of wood used in construction? Softer woods ok? How about veneers? or ... A: First I'd say that you can make a great pool table out of any material that is sturdy enough to ...
cussion specs	9/15/2007
Q: I see different table manufactures say that their cushions meet the K55 tournament spec.[like thats ... A: Both K-55 and K-66 cushions can be used to make a fine playing table. There is a difference in the ...
Oversized problem	9/13/2007
Q: I was wondering if you could offer some insight to a situation I have. I am going to be re-covering ... A: Hey Joe, Thanks for your question(s). One of the purposes of control strip on the top of a ...
shimming pockets	9/12/2007
Q: I'm interested in triple shimming my table. Do I need to buy cushion facings ? Is that the technical ... A: Standard cushion facings are rubber and cloth laminated together in layers. The facings are a bit ...
National billards table	9/11/2007
Q: I own a nation billiards table that I have been told was manufactured sometime between 1886 and ... A: Well, National Billiards is still in business. I have never had occasion to contact them so I don't ...
9-ball foul	9/9/2007
Q: If the 9 ball is in front of a pocket, is it proper to intentionaly foul and sink the 9 ball and ... A: Well, sure. That's a legitimate play if you don't have a shot on the lowest ball and missing it ...
line marking for 8 by 4 pool table including the radius of the semi circle	9/1/2007
Q: line marking for 8 by 4 pool table including the radius of the semi circle A: This question seems to come up more than I would have thought. Seems like there should be a ...
Brazilian Slate / Cloth	8/29/2007
Q: I have a pool table and the person who sold it to me said that it comes with 1 inch Brazilian slate. ... A: Slate is a fine-grained rock composite of clay, mica quartz and other minerals. Depending on the ...
jackie gleasons pool table	8/28/2007
Q: my brother recently acquired a pool table owned by Jackie Gleason and we need to get it ... A: I REALLY would like to help you with this one. I always loved Gleason. He was a great pool player ...
Pool Cushion Screws	8/27/2007
Q: i've recentley purchased an 6ft ex pub 8 ball pool table. and i've discoverd that two screws are ... A: Hard to say. There are a number of bolts used to attach the rail to the table through the slate. I'd ...
balke tables	8/27/2007
Q: i was given a 6x12 balke table 8 yrs ago, curious about age and value??? A: Hmmmm, a Julius Balke? Balke merged with Brunswick in th early 1870's so if is indeed a "Balke" ...
8 Ball - making the eight ball on a break	8/27/2007
Q: lose, re-rack??? Thanks!!! A: It depends on which set of rules you're playing by. It's probably best just to ask what way you're ...
Is it slate or something else?	8/26/2007
Q: We are searching for a pool table for our family rec room, how can we tell if it is a slate top or ... A: Well I guess if you don't have construction specifications from the original manufacturer the only ...
measurements	8/25/2007
Q: measurements for positioning of the white ball and the triangle positioning on a 3/4 table A: I'm not sure I understand this question but it sounds like you're asking where to place the head ...
legal kiss shot	8/24/2007
Q: my friend and i have been having a dispute over a shot i made. my friends ball was in front of the ... A: Sure. In 8-ball, all that is ever necessary when calling a ball is that you get a good hit on one ...
New pool table rails	8/22/2007
Q: I saw in your profile that you have experience recovering and maintaining tables so I think you can ... A: I am not familiar with the portuguese pool tables you describe. I suggest you review the standard ...
ball jumps off bumper	8/21/2007
Q: I am a new owner of a used pool table. The table I have purchased has a strange thing where the ... A: Sounds like the cushions are set a little bit low. Lots of players like low cushions because it ...
pooltable regulationes	8/19/2007
Q: What is the pocket size of a regulation size pooltable? And what is the height of the regulation ... A: The following standards are from the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) for equipment used at all ...
on the break	8/19/2007
Q: If you get the 8 ball in and the Q ball in on the break... would you win or lose the game ? A: It depends on which set of rules you're playing by. It's probably best just to ask what way you're ...
pool	8/14/2007
Q: what is the best break for hitting eight ball in on break? A: Put the cue ball a couple of inches from the side rail at the head string. Aim to get a full hit on ...
making called shot plus one more	8/13/2007
Q: My opponent called a shot and made the called shot and another of his ball during the same shot. I ... A: Sorry, Steve, but all balls that fall during an otherwise legal shot are also legally pocketed and ...
eight ball corner pocket	8/9/2007
Q: Scenerio.... The eight ball sits very near the corner pocket but is clearly touching both the rail ... A: Yes, well in many places making a shot "clean" is a popular concept. But the official rules for all ...
Sell or Keep?	8/8/2007
Q: I have remarried and moved into a new house. We do not think we have a room large enough to ... A: Well, thanks for the questions, Steve. But you're really asking for my opinion. My answer is always ...
No Call Shots	8/8/2007
Q: My friend and I were playing the other day and we decided from the beginning that we were just ... A: He should have called the pocket. According to all official sets of rules in used today the ...
Disassembly/storage/Reassembly	8/7/2007
Q: I need to move out of state and I want to take my pool table. It is a modest table, "WINNERS ... A: Modest by some standards perhaps but certainly well worth moving and nice to play on too. Glad ...
rankings committees	8/5/2007
Q: I am looking for information on ratings criteria as it relates to billiards. Our local area has a ... A: The American Poolplayers Association (APA), The Valley National Eightball Association (VNEA), The ...
Mental preparation	8/2/2007
Q: I would like to ask you this: I recently participated in my first pool tournment. It wasn't too bad ... A: I'll answer you second question first because it's so much easier. A good cue is usually perfectly ...
Pocket dimensions	7/31/2007
Q: I purchased a table about 7 years ago. 1 1/2 slate with leather pockets, a recreational warehouse ... A: I added a P.S. to this after I re-read it. See the bottom. Pockets are often a mystery onto ...
Combo legal? or not?	7/30/2007
Q: My opponent's ball is sitting directly in line of the pocket that my ball is called to go in. I ... A: I apologize for the "whining" remark - that was over the top - I was just trying to add a little ...
table assembly	7/29/2007
Q: What type of wax is used when joining the pieces of slate? A: If wax is used it is almost certainly beeswax. Beeswax is a common material used to seal the tiny ...
Combo legal? or not?	7/28/2007
Q: My opponent's ball is sitting directly in line of the pocket that my ball is called to go in. I ... A: Well, it's not a combination shot really (more of a carom off his ball in the same pocket). But it's ...
snooker rule	7/25/2007
Q: My opponent hit a red ball and a colored ball at the same time while aiming at a red ball which was ... A: Rules for split hits vary from one type of game to another so there is often confusion. Often in ...
Bouncing balls	7/25/2007
Q: I recently purchased a new pool table (ABC Balboa) gum bumpers,simonios cloth, level best balls. ... A: My experience is that humidity has more effect on how the cloth plays, temperature has more effect ...
9 ball	7/24/2007
Q: Is it legal to use a combo to knocked the 9 ball into a pocket to win the game even if there are ... A: Sure. The game is over any time the nine falls on a legal shot. If you strike the lowest numbered ...
Bouncing balls	7/24/2007
Q: I recently purchased a new pool table (ABC Balboa) gum bumpers,simonios cloth, level best balls. ... A: It seems a little odd that it just started doing that all of a sudden. When balls hop up in the air ...
English, Follow, and Draw	7/23/2007
Q: I have a few questions pertaining to English, Follow, and Draw. I have been playing about four years ... A: It's a bit difficult to answer some questions without seeing the exact placement of object ball, cue ...
marking pool table for first time	7/20/2007
Q: regards Di A: I should say your question is right at the edge of my knowledge of the topic. I offer the following ...
cue joint	7/20/2007
Q: I want to buy the Joss cue that has a joint of 5/16 x 14, but I want to change the joint to match ... A: Not sure about this one. I know that Joss now offers the uni-loc joint but I don't know if they ...
legal shot	7/19/2007
Q: My name is Hans, I am 52 and just 2 years ago got a table and I am trying to seriously learn how to ... A: Glad to hear you're playing regularly - it's a great game. Of course "local rules" often exist and ...
8 ball last pockect	7/17/2007
Q: We play this game called 8 ball last pocket. Now if i am stripes and have one ball left on the table ... A: Good qustion. It's been a long time since the Billiard Congress of America stopped printing rules ...
breaking	7/16/2007
Q: what is the correct spot on the cue ball to strike when u r breaking them up for best results? A: The question of how to hit a great break is one of considerable controversy. One key thing to ...
pool cue selection	7/15/2007
Q: I already have purchased a predator and a viking and I use the Predator 314 2nd generation shaft. I ... A: My experience is that the Predator shaft is going to make almost anything you put it on play "about" ...
Rotation push out?	7/15/2007
Q: I have a question about rotation, as played by professional players for money. Can a push out be ... A: Some of the most common "general rules of play" don't apply to the game of rotation. Here are some ...
Billiards (Table Size)	7/9/2007
Q: What would be the general dimensions of the space needed around a 9 foot pool table in order to make ... A: To have enough room to use a standard 58 inch cue all the way around the table you'll need (at ...
Disassembly instructions 9' Gold Medal	7/8/2007
Q: my son wants to move our table to his new home in SC. Is there anywhere I can find instructions on ... A: But then what are you going to do without a table? ;-) I'm not familiar with a "Gold Medal" table ...
pool	7/6/2007
Q: but the problem is 1 day its amazing and the other day just normal i want to play with the lose grip ... A: No question about it, a light grip with the back hand is best. Your back hand should be soft and ...
Re-Cloth	7/5/2007
Q: Bill, I have an old Brunswick table that my dad gave me( probably from the late 70's-early 80's) ... A: Well Simonis 860 is great cloth and a popular choice - you can hardly go wrong there. The subrails ...
For an 8 foot table	7/1/2007
Q: I want to put an 8 foot table in a room in my house, and wanted to know if the room was big enough. ... A: If you want to have enough room to use a standard 58 inch cue all the way around the table you'll ...
question	6/30/2007
Q: my bro thinks in pool if u dont hit any other ball with the que ball its a scratch? A: Well, yes and no. It is a foul not to make a legal hit on an object ball and the penalty is same; ...
shooting on the 8 ball	6/28/2007
Q: i was shooting on the 8 ball, and i made the shot clean, into the pocket i called. however, AFTER it ... A: You win. As long as you made a good hit on the eight and sunk it in your called pocket and the cue ...
9 ball, ball in hand	6/26/2007
Q: We are playing 9 ball in apa. I have ball in hand. I pick up the cue ball and drop it on the floor ... A: Here's a quick follow up for you... The APA uses a shortened and somewhat modified version of the ...
Frozen Rail Shots	6/26/2007
Q: I'm having trouble with my rail shots end to end(que ball frozen or really close). Obviously these ... A: Sounds like these are two separate questions so I'll try and answer them that way. I'll take your ...
Avoiding the scratch	6/24/2007
Q: Newsted, I have a problem on rail shots scratching in the opposite side pocket sometimes. Most the ... A: Well, you're in good company. A lot of players have that problem and from time to time even the best ...
8 ball (UK)	6/19/2007
Q: What happens when both players are on the black ball and: A)The player taking their shots hits the ... A: A)The player taking their shots hits the cue ball however fails to hit the 8-ball. There was ...
Break	6/18/2007
Q: Alright if i shoot the ball on the break and a stripe and solid goes in is it still my turn or the ... A: Sure, unless you scratch it's still your turn and the table is open. If you fail to make a ball on ...
pool	6/14/2007
Q: i want 2 know if once i have lined my shot up and i start 2 pull my cue back do i still keep looking ... A: Players hold the butt of the cue in various places depending on their height, length of arms, height ...
pool	6/13/2007
Q: i want 2 know if once i have lined my shot up and i start 2 pull my cue back do i still keep looking ... A: Good question. I have known some pretty fair players that look at the cue ball on their final ...
Use english to make a shot easier?	6/10/2007
Q: I have noticed that watching 9 ball events on TV that the players always use natural english on the ... A: Wow, you're really paying attention. I assume that by "natural english" you mean english going in ...
'diamond system'	6/9/2007
Q: What are the basic principles of the 'diamond system' for bank shots? I have an 'eight foot pro' ... A: The diamond system is primarily used to calculate aim points for three rail shots. It is primary ...
Banks and Combos Pool	6/7/2007
Q: I got tired of playing 9 ball on Comcast.net by the regular rules. In an effort to make the game ... A: Both shots you describe are legal carom shots. In your first example the two ball is the object ball ...
Value for Cue Rack	6/6/2007
Q: Friends wish to sell a 1908-1911 Brunswick Balke Collender Co. cue rack size: 37"width x ... A: If the gold lettering you mention is the "original" Brunswick Balke Collander logo decal that's ...
Stroke Improvement	6/5/2007
Q: I've been playing for a few sessions and have improved considerably, but still have a long way to ... A: Sounds like you "caught a stroke". Real fun, right? Sometimes when we're "strugglin" to find our ...
Old JossWest	6/4/2007
Q: I have an old Josswest..between 1972-80. It has a cork "wrap" and is unlike any I've seen. I am ... A: Some of Bill Stroud's (JossWest) earliest cues are less valuable than later ones so it's really hard ...
Stroke Improvement	6/4/2007
Q: I've been playing for a few sessions and have improved considerably, but still have a long way to ... A: I tell everyone there is no way you can shoot too many straight in stop shots. I say that for a ...
Cue sticks and Break sticks	6/2/2007
Q: I've been dieing to know what is the difference between the cue stick and the break stick. I watch ... A: An important reason break cues are popular among top players is simply to protect their shooting cue ...
Split hit	6/2/2007
Q: When you aim at object ball and get a "split hit" on the object ball and opponent's ball is this a ... A: Generally speaking, a split hit is considered a good hit unless otherwise stated at the outset of a ...
official rules for 8 ball	6/1/2007
Q: Me and my friend keep arguing about the official rules of 8 ball such as behind the line issues ... A: The Billiard Congress of America's World Standardized Rules for is the standard set of rules used in ...
Pool Shaft	6/1/2007
Q: I have what is probably a stupid question, but I'm curious about it non the less. I've heard that ... A: Not a stupid question at all. The tip of the cue is where the cue meets the ball - it's a critical ...
25 ounce pool cue...	5/31/2007
Q: Do you have any knowledge of any well known pool players that uses a 25 ounce cue to break or shoot ... A: Sorry, no, I don't have any knowledge of anyone using a 25 ounce cue. 25 ounces is the maximum ...
Rail Cushions	5/31/2007
Q: I know you prefer not recommend brands, however I am going to be putting new rubber on my Gold Crown ... A: I believe the Gold Crown 1 has rails cut for K55 profile cushions. I have heard that Artemis K55 ...
Table Sizes	5/30/2007
Q: Good evening, I was wondering about the lengths of a pool table. What can you tell me about an ... A: Good question. The size of a pool table is based on its actual playing area as measured between the ...
Room size	5/27/2007
Q: I saw where someone listed the size of the room needed for a 4 1/2'x9' pool table; but can you give ... A: If you want to have enough room to use a standard 58 inch cue all the way around the table you'll ...
Slate cutting	5/23/2007
Q: Me again. I sent you an email as requested for my previous question. I was wondering if slate can ... A: Hmmm, well, this is a question you don't hear very often. I've cut slate tile before with a ...
"Ball In Hand" and a scratch question.	5/21/2007
Q: Ok I have two quick questions, hope they aren't too much. I'm new to pool and I'm not guaranteeing ... A: By almost all standards of current amateur and professional competitions the answer to both your ...
scratch and jumping	5/21/2007
Q: Playing 8 ball, if a player knocks two (2) balls in but then the cue ball drops in.....do both balls ... A: Hmmm, well, neither one anymore. Back in the day we used to spot everything that wasn't made on a ...
Jump shot	5/20/2007
Q: My son insists that you can not put the cue stick between the slate and the cue ball when making a ... A: Your son is right on this one. The only legal way to jump a ball is to strike down on it with an ...
Slate surface	5/16/2007
Q: I just recently acquired an 8' snooker table which I am planning on rebuilding as a regulation ... A: I'm not sure about this one. I have seen markings on slates that are used to make sure the three ...
Help	5/14/2007
Q: The game of 8 ball is my only favourite sport, I am good at it but still need to practice more, as ... A: Fortunately there are many more good books and videos available now than ever before. Perhaps the ...
combo 8 ball	5/14/2007
Q: I shot a combo shot ,15 ball in the corner hitting my ball first with the white ball then hitting ... A: Hmmmm, still not sure exactly what you happened but I can describe 3 possibilities. 1) If you hit ...
Designating pocket for 8-ball	5/13/2007
Q: In 8 ball American pool, can you designate a different pocket before each time you play the 8-ball, ... A: Yes, you can designate a different pocket each time you shoot at the 8 ball. Sounds like your friend ...
combo 8 ball	5/13/2007
Q: I shot a combo shot ,15 ball in the corner hitting my ball first with the white ball then hitting ... A: Hard for me to tell from your question exactly what happened here - I can read it different ways. ...
room	5/7/2007
Q: my wife and i building a house. I want to have a pool table in the house. What in your opinion are ... A: Smallest possible dimensions of a room? I guess it depends on two things; 1) the smallest table ...
jump shot	5/6/2007
Q: i was reading on your jump shot method, where you que the white ball into the table to make it jump. ... A: I can't imagine the slate could be damaged and I've never heard of it happening. The cue stick and ...
after the eight ball drops	5/4/2007
Q: my question is after my opponent sinks the eight ball and the cue ball hits a addditional ball in ... A: A good rule of thumb is "a shot is not over until all balls stop moving". If you're playing 8-ball ...
tv pro cup cue ball	5/2/2007
Q: I recently discovered that the tv pro cup cue ball is bigger and heaver then Aramith belgiam balls ... A: Where did you get that information? Just to check, I weighed and measured five Aramith cue balls. ...
break and new cue shaft	4/19/2007
Q: I want to buy another shaft for my Predator cue (I already have a Z 2 generation shaft), but I am ... A: I usually try resist recommending specific brands. Individual tastes are so important in the ...
7 ball racking	4/18/2007
Q: What is the correct way to rack the balls for 7 ball? ANSWER: Seven ball is racked in a circle with ... A: Yes, well I've seen some of the pros play nine ball on television recently racking nine-ball with ...
pool table	4/18/2007
Q: I recently purchased an Olhausen home table, and I am satisfied. The table plays well, however, ... A: I agree with them. If the chipped edge was large enough to interfere with the way the rail bolts ...
7 ball racking	4/17/2007
Q: What is the correct way to rack the balls for 7 ball? A: Seven ball is racked in a circle with the 7 in the center. You can use a nine-ball rack sideways if ...
Pool Table Markings	4/16/2007
Q: Can anyone help me with the correct markings for the 'D spot' etc. on a 7 x 4 pool table A: The D is half of a circle. It's flat edge is centered on the Baulk-line. On a 12 foot table (6 x ...
Cue stick tips	4/14/2007
Q: I just received my first pool table and with it the cue sticks. I received them without a tip I'm ... A: Replacing tips is not too hard. There are a few places online that offer free step-by-step ...
re: height of cushion	4/10/2007
Q: Is the height of the cushion measured to the center of the nose to the bed? Or, the top/ bottom of ... A: Very close. The standard calls for 63.5 percent ( plus or minus 1 percent) of the diameter of the ...
pool	4/10/2007
Q: If the white ball sinks in the hole. when you shoot at the d can you shoot behind the d Ie if the ... A: Sounds like you're playing Snooker. By the rules of the International Billiards and Snooker ...
CANT GET IT RIGHT	4/5/2007
Q: I BOUGHT A POOL TABLE IT WAS ONLY 250.00 AND I KNOW YOU GET WANT YOU PAY FOR BUT WHAT ARE SOME ... A: Hard to say for sure. My first guess, based on the price of the table, would be that the surface ...
pool	4/3/2007
Q: how many shots do you get on the black ball in a game of pool A: As many as it takes to get the little bugger in the hole I think. Honestly I've never heard of a ...
pool tables	4/2/2007
Q: i sent a question yesterday, about albert pick and co pool tables, and i incorrectly wrote 3 inch ... A: Oh, well, that's different. I'm not familiar with the name but back in the day company's that sold ...
Pool Cues	4/1/2007
Q: I am an intermediate player looking for a good cue. I'd like a cue that has a soft hit, will last a ... A: Yes, there are so many to choose from it's hard to make sense out of it all. I prefer to recommend ...
aiming with spliced shafts, e.g. predator 314	4/1/2007
Q: i rate myself as a c or c+ player, if the balls are spread well i might run a rack of 8 or 9 ball ... A: Sorry if my response seemed slow. I just received 3 copies of your question; the original and two ...
how to best remove loose tip and ferrule?	3/30/2007
Q: Bill. I have been playing billiards and fixing tips for about 16 years. One problem that seems to ... A: I've been scratching my head trying to answer this question simply. There are several types of ...
Clean shot on 8 ball ?	3/29/2007
Q: Eight ball is kissing opponents ball. I call 8 ball and hit it first, is that a legal shoot or ... A: Well, both actually. If the 8 ball caroms off your opponents ball it's perfectly legal as long as ...
How to correctly (legally) jump a ball	3/29/2007
Q: I would like to know if there are more ways to jump a ball than what you see the pro's do when ... A: The only legal way to jump a ball is to strike down on it with an elevated cue as if trying to force ...
Brunswick Gold Crown 2, 3-cushion billiard table	3/27/2007
Q: Bill, I have to move my table and need a little information. My table is 5 x 10 ft. The slate is 1 ... A: Slate varies in weight depending on its exact composition but you can count on each piece weighing ...
filler for slate	3/26/2007
Q: I am redoing a brunswick table with 1" slate, date of table 1951. replacing with championship ... A: I love those old Brunswicks and wish you well with this project. First, let me say that you should ...
Illegal combo shot?	3/25/2007
Q: Solid and stripe (plus 8 ball) are left. Opponents ball is pocketed after the object ball is called ... A: As I understand this, the shooter hit his ball first and it fell in the designated pocket and one of ...
cue repair	3/24/2007
Q: I recently purchased a home with a pool table. One of the cues has a ferrule that is broken. I ... A: Hard to be sure how to answer this without knowing what kind and/or quality of shaft we're talking ...
illegal shot	3/23/2007
Q: If your opponent in an 8 ball game, clearly is shooting the stripe balls, cannot hit the object ... A: Only if the table is still "open" is it permissible to hit a stripe to make a solid or vice versa. ...
8 ball slop/calling shots	3/21/2007
Q: All questions assume I hit the object ball first. 1.) Is it a foul or loss of turn if I end up ... A: It is only necessary to indicate the specific ball and its designated pocket. You could actually ...
9 ball win	3/20/2007
Q: If I pocket the 9 ball and the cue ball then follows it in, do I still win? If not what is the ... A: A shot is not complete until all balls have stopped moving. Any time the cue ball goes in a pocket ...
8 ball slop/calling shots	3/19/2007
Q: All questions assume I hit the object ball first. 1.) Is it a foul or loss of turn if I end up ... A: There are a lot variations in the way people play eight ball. Answers to your questions depend on ...
9-ball	3/10/2007
Q: I want to find out the rules for playing 9-ball. A: Sure. You can download a pdf file of the "World Standarized Rules" for 9-ball from the Billiard ...
Producing English	3/6/2007
Q: Pool is my everyday hobby i can't get enough of it I'm not a professional, but I'm no beginner ... A: Many players have trouble learning how low they can aim on the cue ball before they get a miscue. ...
Right handed/Left eye dominant	3/5/2007
Q: I am right handed with a dominant left eye. Who it be more beneficial for me to stand more erect or ... A: You don't say what problem you're trying to fix so its hard to offer advice with confidence. But I ...
8 ball on break	3/4/2007
Q: If a player breaks and hits a numbered ball and then the 8 ball in on the break is it a loss or a ... A: Good question, it depends on what rules you play by. In the APA any time you make the 8-ball on the ...
pool table set-up	3/1/2007
Q: I have a wood floor where my table is going to sit. Do I need to put a rug down first? Thanks. A: Rugs are often used under tables on wooden or other solid floors. The advantage is really more that ...
regulation size	2/27/2007
Q: what is the regulation size for a pool table? A: Good question. In spite of its common use, the term "regulation table" refers to more than just the ...
organizing a pool tournament	2/21/2007
Q: how do you begin to place players on the bracket sheet A: You'll want to have a numbered marker of some kind for each line of the bracket sheet. For a sixteen ...
refelting a pool table	2/18/2007
Q: I am attempting my first refelting and I need to know how to fold/cut the ends of the felt that rap ... A: Glad to hear you're taking on this project. I recommend it to everyone who owns a table. This is a ...
focus	2/16/2007
Q: i play pretty good pool , some days i,m a T.V star , next i,m a chump . my original thought about ... A: Yes, playing well and winning are not entirely the same thing. I've known some good players that ...
staying down on the tough shots	2/13/2007
Q: Im not joking,I had other advice befor but this is already working right now!Follow up question is ... A: Glad my comments are useful to you. I do believe they're valuable. It's hard to say about missing ...
break cue	2/12/2007
Q: have you every used the custome Steve Lomax Bunjee® X-Pro break cue? Is it good and worth the money ... A: Sorry to say I haven't tried the Bunjee® cue yet. I assume you refer to Predator's BK2 which is a ...
staying down on the tough shots	2/11/2007
Q: Now someone said I jump up while breaking hard I have many Accu stats tapes & alot of good players ... A: I don't thinking standing up causes you to miss the shot. I believe it's because you're in the ...
sinking an object ball off the 8 ball	2/6/2007
Q: is it legal to shoot your object ball kissing off the 8 ball? A: Yes, it is perfectly legal to play your ball off of the eight. As long as you hit one of your balls ...
custom cue	2/5/2007
Q: Who would you recommend as a custom cue maker that you can reach over the Internet. A: Tough question to answer. Choosing a custom made cue is such a personal issue it's hard to recommend ...
placement of stickers	2/4/2007
Q: we've recently refelted our pool table and were wondering the correct placement of the two marking ... A: Sure, you want the spots centered from side to side and then that same distance from the end as from ...
help identifyng a pool cue	2/3/2007
Q: I am writing to see if you can help me identify this model of pool cue: ... A: Sorry, I don't have information for you on this. Have you called Meucci and asked them? I've called ...
new cushions	1/30/2007
Q: I am planning to re-felt and put new cushions on my antique Brunswick-Balke table. How do I tell ... A: The K55 is slightly larger than the K66. (More rubber = more bounce) It's easy to see the difference ...
foul on 9_ball	1/28/2007
Q: what happens if you foul on the 9_ball A: The occurrence of any foul in 9-ball gives the opponent ball in hand anywhere on the table. If the ...
slate	1/23/2007
Q: Is one piece slate better then 3 piece diamond honed slate,I have concerns about the seems. A: Well, one piece slate won't have any seams that's for sure. Seams are usually more of a problem on ...
Buying a cue	1/20/2007
Q: i am writing because i need some help about the best cue choice. I play pool 6 months ago and i am ... A: Sure, the Cuetec 264 is a fine choice. Cuetec shafts are maple coated with fiberglass or graphite. ...
Pool Cue Tips	1/19/2007
Q: I am searching for a replacement cue tip for my little brother. He says that 8mm cue tips can't ... A: Wow. 8mm. That's tiny. I'm in the U.S. and don't know of any sources here. I know there are some ...
Tip radius	1/18/2007
Q: What do you know about the difference in nickle/dime radius's. Is there anything to gain going from ... A: Well, the nickel/dime thing is a rule of thumb. There are devices that shape to one radius or the ...
eight ball pool tournaments	1/16/2007
Q: How do I run a professional eight ball tournament? A: Resending this... Your question is a little too broad for me to be specific with a reply. Please ...
setting up a pool table	1/15/2007
Q: Bill - you answered a number of questions for me a few weeks ago regarding an old Olhausen table I ... A: Sounds like you're going to have a beautiful table when your done. Good. Let me say that I don't do ...
Limb Saver	1/15/2007
Q: Does the product called the limb saver actually work. I don't doubt the fact it absorbs some ... A: Sorry to say that I have not tried this product. I'm always skeptical of gadgets that say they'll ...
Running the Table	1/12/2007
Q: Ive been playing pool for 10+ years. Every aspect of pool ive at least been introduced if not ... A: Tough question... Yes, I understand the problem very well. It's particularly troublesome on a ...
warranty	1/11/2007
Q: What should a warranty on a new table include and how much is it worth. A: I should say I don't make it my business to keep track of all manufacturers and their warranty ...
3 piece slate?	1/11/2007
Q: We were offerered a pool table. I am trying to figure out if it is 1 piece or 3 piece slate. How do ... A: Often you can get underneath the table and look at the underside of the slate and can tell - ...
Steering Stroke and Practice Drills	1/11/2007
Q: I have been playing pool for about 6 months now, i have read 1 book, and in the last month I have ... A: Hard to say for sure without watching you hit the ball but there are a couple of things I might ...
White spots/wear spots from breaking	1/11/2007
Q: I'm fairly new to pool. I use a spot on my new pool table frequently for breaking (about 1 and 3/4 ... A: Resending this... Hi Ed, Yes, it actually is a burn mark. There's a lot of heat caused by ...
What is english	1/10/2007
Q: We just got a pool table ! My question is WHAT is english !!!! I have heard it but really don't ... A: Resending this... Hello Rha, Hmmmm, well, a moving ball can be doing any combination of three ...
Simonis 760 vs 860	1/10/2007
Q: I would like to know your epinion on the difference between the 2. Is the 760 that faster than the ... A: I have not played on the two in side by side comparison so its little hard to say. I will say that I ...
railing	1/7/2007
Q: how do you remove the cushion from the rails? A: I assume you mean after you have already removed the cloth that covers the cushion rubber. Well, ...
cutting simonis 860	1/6/2007
Q: how do you cut the cloth for rails on simonis 860? i have 104" for an 8'oversize. A: I assume your Simonis is 78 inches wide. You'll want 60" by 104" for the bed of the table. That ...
My girlfriend thinks she knows it all.	1/5/2007
Q: My girl and I have a bet, she says that if you make an opponents ball after making your own on a ... A: Sounds like you're playing 8-ball. I hope you didn't bet more than you can afford to lose because it ...
Purchasing a cue	1/4/2007
Q: I'm anxious to know which brands have the best material(wood) for cues at a reasonable price. I'm ... A: There are many good cues on the market in your price range. Computer controlled milling and overseas ...
Old Billiard Table	1/4/2007
Q: From the 1920's. 3 piece slate,cherry wood. I have pictures if it will help you out. However ... A: I'm pretty familiar with table manufacturers but Frank Billiards is unknown to me. It could be a ...
Making The Table Faster	1/3/2007
Q: I recently bought a Riley Pool Table and it's very slow. What can I do to make it quicker. Someone ... A: Not sure ironing would have any effect unless you have unbacked wool and