How to Hold a Pool Stick ( Cue) - Tips and Technique

Pool billiards or snooker - no matter which version of billiards one plays, an important role is played by... holding the pool cue. The way one positions it to deliver a strike affects the traction of the cue ball and, as a result, the success of the game. So how do you hold a billiard cue? Here is the most important information.

How to hold a cue stick - let's start with the basics!

Do you want to start playing billiards? "How to hold a cue stick" is a question you can ask yourself only after learning the basics, that is... the design of this accessory.

What is worth knowing about pool cues? First of all, they are made of wood, usually maple, which is lathed to the optimal shape. It is very distinctive, as the accessory has a slightly thicker diameter at the base and thinner at the top - so that it can be used to accurately hit the ball.

However, contrary to appearances, the nuances of the whole structure do not end there! It is much more elaborate. A standard pool cue consists of a lower part (handle) and an upper part - the tip. And it can be one or more parts.

The bottom part/ butt of the cue consists of:

• bumper - this is the part that rests on the floor; it is usually made of rubber or plastic; there may be a thread for mounting "extensions";
• handle - it is the handle that is the thickest part and the place you need to pay attention to when learning how to hold a billiard stick;
• wrap - it is applied where the cue is held; it is made of thread, sponge or nylon; it is an important element that helps improve grip;
• collar - it can be made of wood or steel, and its task is to connect the handle and the tip; it is worth knowing that each manufacturer of these accessories uses details of its own design, so most often it is impossible to connect, for example, the handle from a stick of one brand with the "tip" of another;

It is worth knowing that billiard cues are different from snooker cues. The latter are usually a single piece (that is, they have no collar between the handle and the tip). Also, they have a narrower tip and the ferrule is always made of metal.

In addition, for advanced players there are other models of cues - for example, for smashing or making jumps. However, before you reach for them, learn how to hold a pool cue.

How to properly hold a pool stick so you can hit the ball well? Here are the basic instructions to get you started.

How to properly hold a pool stick? Posture matters

Start with correct body alignment. 

• Stand at the pool table. 
• Extend one leg slightly forward and gently bend it. The other - straighten it.
• Position the front foot parallel to the stick, and the back foot perpendicular to it. 
• Now grab the handle of the stick with your right hand and lean forward.
• Position the hand you are holding the stick at the back, approximately at the "height" of the foot extended backwards - so that its arm is parallel to the accessory.
• Bend your head - so that your head is just above your chin.
• Place your other hand on the billiard table to make it a support for the cue tip.
• Straighten your thumb and point it toward you. Rest it against the table on your fingertips.
• Place the tip of the stick between the arch between the index finger and the stick - so that a "sight" is formed.
• Now you can make the hit.

Sound complicated? Just read the instructions describing how to hold a pool cue once or twice and follow the steps. After that, adopting the right posture will come naturally to you.

How to hold a pool cue - the angle of impact

When holding the cue with your hand on the handle, make sure that the angle is approximately 90 degrees. However, when it comes to the angle between the cue and the table, the tip should be almost perpendicular to the playing surface. It is important to note that the execution of the shot is more important than the angle itself. A smooth, straight shot with no lateral deviation is crucial for accurate gameplay.

Holding a pool cue - where do you hold the handles?

Finding the right balance point while holding a pool cue is crucial to delivering a confident and precise strike. A helpful indicator is the casing on the handle mentioned earlier, which can guide you to the optimal grip position. However, finding the perfect grip is also a matter of personal skill and preference, so don't hesitate to experiment until you find the most comfortable and effective way to hold the cue.

How to hold billiard stick - for advanced players

Have you mastered the basic rules of holding a pool cue and refined your stroke motion? If so, it's time to experiment with different hand positions. You can try adjusting the position of the hand holding the cue as well as the auxiliary hand.

One way to experiment with your pool cue technique is to try hitting balls at different angles relative to the table. Additionally, you can also experiment with the position of your supporting hand. For instance, try supporting the cue tip with your thumb raised or position your fingers on the edge of the table instead of on the felt.

There are many possibilities to explore, and with more practice and experience, you will discover what works best for you. Best of luck!