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Cueing Academy

Pool glossary · Table & Equipment

Cue ball

Also called: White ball, Whitey, Rock

What is the cue ball in pool?

The cue ball is the plain white ball you strike with the cue. Regulation pool balls, cue ball included, measure 2¼ inches (57.15 mm) and weigh about 5.5–6 oz. Controlling where it stops after each shot is the core skill in pool.

In more detail

Every other shot depends on cue-ball position: potting is only half the shot. Some coin-operated tables use a slightly heavier or larger cue ball, which reacts differently to draw and follow — recalibrate when you switch.

People also ask

Why is the cue ball sometimes bigger on bar tables?

Some coin-op tables use an oversized or magnetic cue ball so the table can return it separately from object balls. It draws less and follows more.

Train it at the table

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