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Pool glossary · Aiming & Physics

Half-ball hit

What is a half-ball hit in pool?

A half-ball hit is when the center of the cue ball is aimed at the edge of the object ball, so half of each ball overlaps at contact. It produces a cut of about 30° and is one of the most useful reference shots in pool.

In more detail

Because the edge of the object ball is a visible target, the half-ball hit is easy to see and repeat. With natural roll the cue ball also leaves a half-ball hit at close to 30°, making it a cornerstone of position play.

People also ask

What is a quarter-ball hit?

One quarter of the balls overlap; it cuts the object ball about 49°. A three-quarter ball hit cuts about 14.5°.

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