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Cueing Academy

Pool glossary · Shot Types

Carom

Also called: Carom shot, Cannon

What is a carom shot in pool?

A carom is a shot where one ball glances off another and continues on a new path — either the cue ball off a ball into the target, or an object ball off another into the pocket. The 30° rule helps predict the cue ball's carom path.

In more detail

Recognising caroms helps you avoid accidental kisses and scratches and find pots that are not obvious. In carom billiards (a different game), points come only from caroms.

People also ask

What is the difference between a carom and a kiss shot?

Pool players use the terms loosely; typically a carom deflects one ball off another, while a kiss refers to object balls touching on the way, often unintended.

Train it at the table

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