Pool glossary · Strategy & Safety
Dead ball
Also called: Dead combination, Dead shot
What is a dead ball in pool?
A dead ball (or dead combination) is a shot that will go in almost regardless of small aiming errors — usually two frozen balls lined up at a pocket. Recognising dead shots creates easy pots and safeties.
In more detail
Check whether a combination is truly dead by lining up both balls with the pocket from behind. If the line points off the pocket, throw may still help — test it in practice.
People also ask
Can a frozen combination miss?
Yes, if it is not lined up and you do not use the right throw. Only call it 'dead' when the line points into the pocket.
Train it at the table
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