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Pool glossary · Cue Ball & Spin

Stop shot

Also called: Stop

How do you do a stop shot in pool?

A stop shot makes the cue ball stop dead on contact with the object ball on a straight-in shot. It happens when the cue ball is sliding with no spin at the moment of contact, so all its forward energy transfers to the object ball.

Step by step

  1. 1Set a straight-in shot with the cue ball one diamond from the object ball.
  2. 2Aim slightly below center and use medium speed.
  3. 3If the cue ball rolls forward, hit lower or firmer; if it draws back, hit higher or softer.
  4. 4Move the cue ball back a diamond at a time and repeat.

In more detail

Close up, center ball or a touch below works. As distance grows, hit lower or firmer so the backspin wears off exactly as the cue ball reaches the object ball. A stop shot is the foundation for stun and draw.

People also ask

Why does my stop shot roll forward?

The backspin wore off before contact and the cue ball started rolling. Hit slightly lower or a little firmer.

Train it at the table

More guides on stop shot