Having a good stun shot in pool is a skill you need to master. It can make all the difference in winning or losing. There are many ways to play the ball, each with its own rules and methods. You cannot simply hit the ball. You must hit the ball hard. The greater the chances that it will be able to pocket, the more you hit it.
A stun shot refers to a shot that requires a strong hit. In straight pool games, this means that the cueball must travel straight in and not divert from its intended course. This can often be accomplished by raising the butt of the cue, or putting it up.
A "break" is a shot that is made at the last OB of a straight pool game. There are several types of break shots. Some are used to get out of trouble, while others are designed to make it easier to score. One example is the golden breaking, or the gold pocket.
Another option is the break out shot or break-out. This type of shot is great for scoring a quick shot when the cluster of balls is out of place. Your shot might be lucky enough to cause an opponent to lose his composure and get thrown off the table. A good hit is often rewarded with an OB that is still on top of the table. This makes the task easier to get the ball off.
But a "break" does not guarantee a win. Other ways to do the same thing include the following:
Grade A shot: This is a shot with high success rates. An example: A hit that is good will first strike the OB, and then a second hit may be able to pocket the OB.
Fancy shot: This skill is rare and requires a lot practice. Typically, this involves a very short and punchy stroke, called a "J" stroke. A "J" stroke, unlike a jab stroke is curved like a pendulum. A "jelly roll", which is similar to a jab stroke, is a cue ball roll that is particularly beneficial for the shooter.
Fancy-looking - Another name for fancy-looking shots is a flight. Flight is a fancy looking shot that may not be as accurate but is nonetheless the most impressive. A flight is normally a low percentage shot like a top/bottom spin and a flyer.
Stun shot: While a stun shot may not be as glamorous as other types of shots, it's actually pretty important. It's always a good idea have it on hand. You could lose the match if you don't have it.
Another common name for stun shots is the jelly roll, grade "B", and the nip-draw. But which is the best?
A pool nip is a good idea. This keeps the CB's from jumping off the table. A nipstroke is slightly more difficult because there is very little follow through.