Quick answer: To do a stop shot in pool, shoot a straight in shot and hit the cue ball a little below center with a smooth, firm stroke. The goal is for the cue ball to be sliding with no spin when it hits the object ball. Then it stops dead. The farther away the object ball is, the lower or firmer you need to hit.
The stop shot is one of the first position shots every player should learn. It is simple, and it gives you control on straight shots. Here is how to do it.
What Is a Stop Shot?
A stop shot is a straight in shot where the cue ball stops right where it hits the object ball. It does not roll forward, and it does not come back. It just stops.
Why Does the Cue Ball Stop?
When the cue ball hits an object ball straight on, it passes its forward speed to the object ball. If the cue ball has no spin at that moment, it has nothing left to move it, so it stops. If it is rolling forward, it follows. If it has back spin, it draws back. A stop shot is all about getting zero spin at contact.
How to Do a Stop Shot in 5 Steps
- Set up a straight shot. Put an object ball one foot from a corner pocket and the cue ball two feet behind it, in a straight line.
- Aim a little below center. Hit the cue ball about half a tip below center.
- Keep your cue level. Keep the back of the cue as low as you can.
- Use a firm, smooth stroke. Not a slam, just a confident stroke that goes through the ball.
- Stay down and watch. Did the cue ball stop, roll forward, or come back? Adjust next time.
How to Fix It
- Cue ball rolls forward: Hit a little lower, or a little firmer.
- Cue ball draws back: Hit a little higher, or a little softer.
- Cue ball goes off to the side: Your shot was not quite straight, or you hit with some side spin.
Stop Shots at Longer Distances
As the cue ball travels, the table friction turns its back spin into forward roll. On a long shot, you need to hit lower or harder so the cue ball is still sliding when it gets to the object ball. Practice at one foot, then two, then three.
The Stun Shot
When the shot is not straight, the same hit is called a stun shot. The cue ball goes off at about a right angle from the object ball path. This is a great shot to know for position.
A Quick Drill
Shoot ten stop shots at each distance: one foot, two feet, and three feet between the balls. Count how many stop within a few inches. Write your scores down and try to beat them next time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you hit the cue ball for a stop shot?
Hit a little below center, about half a tip, with a level cue and a firm, smooth stroke.
Why does the cue ball stop on a stop shot?
If the cue ball has no spin when it hits the object ball straight on, it gives up its speed and stops.
Why does my cue ball keep rolling forward?
It is rolling at contact. Hit a little lower or a little firmer.
What is the difference between a stop shot and a stun shot?
A stop shot is on a straight in shot. The same no spin hit on an angle is called a stun shot.