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Pool glossary · Cue Ball & Spin

Pocket speed

What is pocket speed in pool?

Pocket speed is the gentle pace at which the object ball just reaches the pocket and drops. Tight pockets accept more of their width at pocket speed, so a soft pot is more forgiving than a firm one.

In more detail

At high speed a ball that clips the jaw rattles out; at pocket speed it often drops off the point. Use the softest speed that still gives the position you need.

People also ask

Why do balls fall in at slow speed but not fast?

A slow ball can roll in off a point or the facing; a fast ball bounces off it. The effective pocket is larger at low speed.

Train it at the table

More guides on pocket speed