Thanks for the excellent tips! You mentioned the great Willie Mosconias being the reason you play pool. When I was in college, Willie came and gave an exhibition in 14-1 pool. I was honored to be his opponent. We played one game to 50 points and I was allowed to break. I made what I thought was a decent break which did not leave much, but too much! Willie proceeded to run 50 balls and I got to say I played the great Willie Mosconi!
I'm jealous, but if it had been me it would have been more than laughable if it was to a number Willie didn't achieve in the first inning. Yeah, a GREAT pool story. He was truly one of the ultimate masters of pool. Efren is another. Many others, SVB, Pagulayan, etc. Those guys are pool gods. Justin Hall came to my hall several times and was playing our best amateurs, some of whom are very good A level players. The difference in skill level was MASSIVE, seemingly an untraversable ocean.
I use my shooting stick to break, have never had a break cue. My shooting stick is 17oz, I grew up playing snooker with 12 to 14oz cues. But now I only get to play at my local bar a couple times a month. I usually get a pretty good scatter on the balls on a bar box.
I just want to say as a new player youre videos like this truly do help. I love how you say it like it is and let the player determine what works for them. Thank you for the time and dedication you bring us! 🎱
One REALLY good point you made here, almost completely in passing, is if you want to see how your game is changing vs. equipment, new techniques, etc. keeping good performance and equipment, etc. notes is critical. I have found I often look back and perceive changes quite differently than I do when I go look up what was actually happening then, and now from notes I made the effort to get on paper over that time. As an example I have often perceived a slump as being much worse than it really is.
Brain I always broke with a 22 oz cue I am now using a 18.5 cue for breaking and 18.5 to shoot with I’m getting better breaks and more control thank you Bob Warfield TX
I came here to improve at pool while I’m at break at work. They gave us a pool table in the break room and I’m a beginner. I’m hoping your videos will make me better at not just breaking but also in general. I can’t wait to go to work tomorrow and try out all your tips!
Fantastic video Bryan. You are 100 percent correct about the magic rack. It has been tested and proven. A "lose rack" or slightly small gaps between balls decrease your chance of pocketing a ball.
I just found your channel. Played competitive pool 4 decades ago and am about to retire. A friend at Thanksgiving mentioned he could teach me how to play pool and my family all nearly choked to death laughing, since they can recall the wall of trophies we used to have around. That got me to looking into it and WOW, the sport has really changed. I think that magic rack thing would have saved a lot of BS (and teeth) back in the old days! Great video and I am subscribing.
I love when I have the option to use a magic rack, It feels like it eliminates a lot of the randomness of a loose rack. I believe the break is one of the most important shots on the game, and it really sucks when you see little action on the rack because it was loose. Another great video, thanks once again for sharing great knowledge with others.
Hi, my new best friend! I've played 8 ball for 20 years (yes, started early) with many breaks in between. I've joined another league after a long hiatus and got online for some tips. Back in the day, I had to rely on watching other players. After watching several videos, I finally thought, I can break but it's not my strength. After drudging through many tutorials, you are my favorite because you are easy to follow, you provide honest information of what to do and what NOT to do, you explain the physics of it, and I'm excited to head down to the pool hall in the next hour, and give your ideas a try. I will be revisiting your site for further info. I am have played in tournaments and won some of them but consider myself an amateur/ semi=pro in the making. Thank you! You inspired me with your demeanor and positivity. I'll update you with my improved break! May the force (gentle stick) be with me! Richelle
Thanks for another great video! Magic racks are AWESOME! I decided to try the cheap Amazon 6 pack for 10 bucks or whatever it was. Racks 8, 9, 10 ball. They are so much thinner than I expected!
Thanks for the comment that it’s all those losses which have made me an expert racker. 😁 I had ongoing debate with several guys when I bought my break cue. Their contention was I couldn’t get up enough speed to own a lighter cue. Anyway...the cue is 17 oz with a bolt in the back that brings it to a current 20 oz. As speed improves, I’ll lighten it. Had my first practice last Sunday. Felt good. I was terrible...but hold good memory of your tips. Will be back at the table tomorrow. Re-start APA play on 4/18. Thank you.
Great video and great advice. I plan on using some tips tonight to try out different breaks. I grew up in Haddon Heights NJ and Willie Mosconi lived not far from me. Pretty small town and I found out after the fact that he owned that particular house. I was too young at the time to know his prominence in the billiards world. Man I wish I could have met him and played in his house. I can only imagine the set up he must of had.
Great video! As a top player from 40 years ago there is a ton of truths in your video & I could relate to everything. I still break with my custom made break cue 18 oz from 1989 & have always used La Pro tip on it & yes Control is the top concern then is speed & mass. Kind of like getting fitted for a gold driver weight, flex, loft, lie, shaft flex & stiffness based on each persons individual body strength height weight etc. Interesting I found this video because I just started getting back into the game (check a few of my videos) & I recently saw several videos about tests of heavier break cues creating more speed on average but based on my years of experiance it’s really comes down to what your can generate the most speed & have the Most Control! And I received my Magic rack last month & love it! Cheers
No argument whatsoever on the break cue weight. I have stopped trying to convince people to put down the 25 oz. break cue. I let my break tell the story. Everything here is dead on, surprised I didn't find your channel earlier. Thanks!
One of best cues I ever had, was an 18 oz Wall Cue. It was just a Great Cue, but after 25 years it warped. I had it straightened, but it went back. I got me a BreakRAK, that's the way to Practice the Break Shot.
I especially enjoyed this video, and your comments about Willie! I too, was strongly influenced by him! I played him in an exhibition match at the grand opening of Rudy’s Rack and Cue in Dublin Georgia in 1971! An honor and memory I’ll never forget.
Wow this is true I purchased a 25 oz break cue and I was barely dropping balls probably a ball every 3 or 4 breaks, but I noticed when I used a 19 oz bar cue my break was awesome ,two or 3 balls every break!!
Bryan, great advice for breaking. Just on a personal note, I purchased the BK Rush the 1st day that seyberts sold them. My back has spiraled downward over the years. So as my back worsens, my break speed has deminished. The energy transfer that the rush & CF provides makes my breaks better than ever. Probably the best break cue I've ever bought due to my issues, couldn't imagine switching to anything else.
I have found that using a magic rack shiny side up (so you can read the words) will leave black residue on the table over time. Easily seen by examining a well used magic rack. I always place the rack with the shiny side down. There is no paint on that side. This will keep your table cleaner. Wish they tinted the plastic instead of painting it. Great videos Brian. Thanks.
This is great! Thanks a million.. and 18:30 is comedy Gold. "I'm usually the guy that won the match so I'm not good at racking. ".. it ain't bragging if it's true. Lol!
I'm impressed, how much do they cost? Endorsement question. 😆 very impressed im pretty sure I way behind watching these but they are things I know just gotta perfect to get to the next level. Thanks for the help.
Good info, and as for the magic rack, I have seen a few times a ball slow roll into it and change course, never so bad that it changes the game. However, I have seen more than a few times a rolling ball hit a dimple in the slate or spot in the felt and roll off enough to hook someone who wasn't going to be hooked, so if someone complains about the magic rack they need to fix bad tables first, that's far more common than the rack causing a problem.
Great video Bryan. I recently purchased a magic rack and love it. The community room at my residence has a table and I'm surprised at how many guys didn't like it at first. But in time they have come to appreciate it like I do. Thanks for the stop shot tip. Haven't tried it but will definitely work it into my game. Stay well. QA.
I agree, everyone, beginner to pro can learn a consistent break with the magic rack more quickly than with a regular rack. Having said that... That may be the reason the great Willie Mosconi would NOT like it. It takes some of the professional ability out of the equation. Just a thought, not trying to argue your point.
I agree with you on the weight of a cue. Lighter is better. I break with a 20.5 oz. Which is heavier than you mentioned but it seems to be in my zone. My sweet spot so to speak.
Have you tried the samsara break tip? Still very hard but is leather so still provided enough control to decrease miscues. Also doesn't damage cue balls like phenolic .
I used those tips 15 years ago before I had pro break cues. I like them. I bet I have some still in a box somewhere. I used to buy tips three and four at a time. It’s a bad idea by the way. They dry out before you use them or you change brands and waisted your money.
I really enjoy the new racks that they have. The consistency is awesome. . I remember you making a comment many months ago .? On one of your other videos. You were talking about the test and the studies on a lighter break stick. it was just a comment you slid in there. but it stuck with me... on another note about the new racks. Me having new cloth on my table. I'm enjoying the fact. that I'm not going to burn up the racking area ..that normally wears thin from repetitive wooden racks sliding over the cloth. I appreciate you and all your efforts. Bryan@ FX Billiards
I bought an 18 ounce Mace break jump cue in 1992! After reading about a break cue weight test in a pool magazine. It said they got better breaks with 18 to 19 oz cues. The light break cue info was discovered 30 years ago but seems to have been forgotten by many.
Very good video and verbal delivery. Clean and concise. I'm not a player but I'm at a Resort that has a table and I was playing by myself last night. I actually taught myself something/figured it out as it relates to the grip. I found that when I lightened it up, I was making more shots. Thanks for your time and tips.
Lighter weight cues give you more speed on the swing and more control. Another thing that helps me break better is to move my grip a couple inches forward. By doing so, it gives me a longer back swing, hence a bigger distance to build up speed on the final swing forward. I believe most pro players do it too.
Hey Bryan, on a different topic, your videos are awesome, especially for intermediate and advanced players. Did you take it back to the basics and do a video on the best products for polishing sets of pool balls. Getting those balls to get back to a decent shine and what works / helps! Thanks!
I will get something out on that. I don't do the best job of keeping my stuff clean, but I do know how to do it LOL. I will be better going forward so I will show you what I do.
@@craigkendall1754 thanks man I just like to keep it real. Because some people around here don't believe that you should have ball in hand in 8 Ball. But I don't mind putting it behind the line and playing old school. Got to be able to play by any rules as long as you know what they are is what I tell people
This was a great video, I personally love the magic/accurack. I recently changed up to a break stick that's as light as my normal shooter. My favorite pool company just released their carbon fiber break shaft but I really dig their shaft I have now, weight forward for less power needed. Great video Bryan
Heard Earl say he preferred that legal breaks be determined by a speed gun, cause they were requiring 3 balls to pass into the kitchen and breaks can be random. I also seen some tourneys where they would not use the magic rack cause run-outs were too easy. I guess there's still a lot of evolution happening with the sport
I really like the magic rack - like really really only when it’s an alternate break format. In a winner break format, a template rack is a disadvantage for both players.
Hey Bryan... love your vids! Your opinions coincide with mine (mostly ;)). I am breaking with a custom reverse taper break cue and carbon fiber break shaft with a clear acrylic break tip (kamikaze). I have found that you can hold the cue lightly better because of the reverse taper, your hand will actually stop at the point where the cue tapers up and any unwanted slippage during the stroke. ALL of he forward produced energy will maintained without any loss. This means that you will be able to achieve more with less. I heard you say that you have tried every type of break cue.... if you haven't tried this you should check it out... it has made a huge difference in my breaking consistency and control.
Love the Magic Rack! Also love the TURTLE RACK ULTIMATE - 8, 9 & 10 BALL I have a table in my airplane hanger and temperatures can fluctuate. Interestingly, I get just a little slop in the rack when it is cold. Either way, it is a consistent rack no matter who racks.
THAT is what I want for Fathers Day. An Airplane hanger!!! Thanks for watching Daniel and thanks for the comments. What kind of plane do you have. I used to skydive out of the Lancaster PA area. Sounds like you might be in the northeast.
Also losers would hate magic racks in winners break losers rack situations, because it takes slightly more efforts racking with magic racks. 🤣 99.99% of the pro tournaments are using magic racks, that tells it all.
@@FXBilliards North Eastern Wisconsin. I own a Cessna 150 and fly a Cessna 172 frequently. I enjoy your content. Have to get good fast, playing league in the fall. Your videos help. Thank You!
great videos man! I've been playing pool since I was 8 years old, thought I was pretty decent but you've shown me some great techniques that I've been practicing and my games definitely improving! SUBBED!
Not just the size of the table, but the speed and quality of the table seems to be the biggest factor for me. Same idea that a magic rack is going to be Very different from an opponent hand racked. Thats where my consistency issues seem the worst (combined with me not knowing which works because I play on a variety of tables so often, and havent committed to enough breaking practice)
As far as the break cue goes. I break with a 21 ounce but I also do not slam it real hard but it just feels the best to me so my advice is do whatever works for you no you don't need a heavy cue do what works for you.
Great video Bryan and much to think about. I’m on the fence with my 25 oz Rage break cue and will probably return it for something else. Spent $400 for my Viking cue and having a hard time justifying $800 for my break cue 🤔
About the heavy break cue thing. If you want to generate the most force (momentum), we know it is mass * velocity you can generate. Greater the mass, the lower the velocity you can generate. But because momentum depends on both mass and velocity generated, momentum increases with the mass of the cue up to a certain point where the mass is too heavy for you to generate enough velocity. In other words, there is some optimum weight unique to each person where they can generate the most amount of momentum. Probably stronger players may prefer a 20-ounce cue whereas weaker players like me could generate the most momentum with a 19 ounce. It would be interesting to run a series of experiments showing what the momentum generated is with certain weights of cues. 25-ounce cues, I guess unless you are The Mountain from the game of thrones, would be disadvantageous to most players, I would think because they simply could not generate enough velocity, and hence the momentum would be less (in spite of the advantage of the mass).
The only extra thing that I make sure that I do when breaking is to make sure my foot that is furthest to the front(my left foot) is completely straight with the shot line. This ensures that if my knees break down that my body moves forward and not off to the right. This helps me to get a nice square hit on my target. Other than that... You nailed down exactly how I break. And my break cue is 17.4 oz. It kills the rack.
good breaks help me at time get at least a run out or 2 at times on Pool league night , and if i change my league to Tap i need work on my break been slacking
When I got my BK Rush I wanted to see how it stacked against my old breaker (no comparison by the way the old one is collecting dust). I used the magic rack while I was comparing to keep the results as consistent as possible. The magic rack is great I love it and I use it when I'm just practicing my breaks in general. But when I play my normal games I don't. Bad racks can lead to more issues (clusters, frozen, etc) but since I can't always control the rack or who is doing it I like the experience that comes from solving the problems tbat arise. But that's just me. I love the magic rack but I learn to break with and without them. Especially in a bar if people rack and there are gaps leanring to break a bad rack can be a different ball game.
I'm usually the one breaking the balls, but when I rack the balls using a wood or plastic rack, I roll the balls up to the spot fast and stop and remove the rack and never touch the balls and the balls are tight ,that's the way I was told to rack when I first learned how to play, I was also told to never let anybody touch the balls when they take the rack off the balls . I'M old school when I see all the stuff these guys do while racking I'd put a stop to it no matter who they are. The template rack gives a tight rack every time, but I see people reracking the balls several times ,inspecting the rack for several minutes and then asking for a rerack. I was told if the head ball or middle ball is on the spot ,depending on who you play , if the rack is tight, and if the rack is straight that is a good rack.
I only get to play in a bar, so the racks are not always that good. So I always look for the gaps to decide where I'm going to shoot from when I break.
Where do you live? May want to take a few lessons from you! I like your explanations and demeanor when explaining them. You have got a new subscriber here! Cheers and thanks! David Ridgeway
I'm in the Philadelphia tri state area. PA,NJ, DE You can visit FXBilliards.com for info on lessons or to contact me about lessons. Thanks for watching.
Hi Bryan. Thanks for the great tips! I know (at least in BCA 9-ball) that aside from the 9-ball, the others balls "will be placed in the diamond without purposeful or intentional pattern". Can you comment on this? In your experience have you seen players disregard this and issues do pattern racking? Do you think it's okay? Just curious if people try to adhere to the rules or if they place balls in certain positions to their favor. Thank you.
you just make me Lough when you said you are bad racker it makes sense I'm one too, and until you mention it. I am not used to rack so often due to the other guy loosing
When i break i don't break with a level because if i break i strike down slightly into the table and i am able to jump the ball into the rack i put a bit of topspin on the cue ball to help stop it near the middle and i don't slam the break because of that so i am able to pocket some balls on the break consistently
Hi Bryan, I personally love the Magic Rack as you do. I play APA and have found only one other person who has ever seen it. It does me no good to use it if my opponent won't. In fact, it only helps him. How should I approach them and get them to use it? I have tried telling them that there is no tighter rack possible and how easy it is to use but they are simply afraid of it because they have never seen it. I HATE using the traditional racks because I can never keep the balls from rolling much less make a tight rack. Suggestions?
People ask me how I break so hard to barely going anything ....really loose hand grip like this guy said...I do that with my whole are ....I use zero muscle power it's the speed of the cue and I let the weight of the cue do the rest ... I don't have a huge back wing either ..but I do have a huge follow through with the cue. Its all Technique.
I think the best break is just off center a little closer than first diamond for control. I cue about a quarter to half tip high hit about 80 % strength and I'm almost always in the middle of table with cue. Just remember no break is the perfect break. I would suggest mastering two different angle breaks because every table is different.
Brian, are you still planning on making a road trip this year? If so please come to Columbia SC. I still have not found any professional billiard instructors here.
I do hope to make a road trip starting with the Northeast. No way I can go to every state but there is a patron of the channel who has invited me to stay at their place in South Carolina, so I might just make it there.
Bryan you had me thinking about 9 ball breaks in this video. Question for you. What do you think of Corey Deuel's "soft break" for 9 and 10 ball? Would you recommend that strategy?
I watch all your videos, this one leaves me with a question (for my situation). For the last 2 months, I have either scratched (via pocketing) or scratched (via q ball jumping off the table) on roughly 50% of my breaks. How can this be avoided, or why is it happening? I thought to much power, didn’t fix the problem. To much follow, didn’t fix the problem. I have tried moving my break point to multiple spots, didn’t fix the problem. I’m stumped on why I keep scratching on the break.
If the cue ball is coming off the table, you may be hitting down on the ball when you break- make sure your cue is level because if it comes off the table means it was airborne when it hit the rack. Other reasons for scratching will depend on where you are actually scratching.
@@FXBilliards I was always scratching in the right corner down table by the rack. Last night I plays in Tuesday tournament (3 matches race to 2, and 4 games at single elimination)… 10 total games I broke 7 times with no scratches and only 2 dry breaks. If I include 6 “warm up” games I broke 13 times with no scratches and 2 dry. Leveling out my cue as much as possible, and hitting the head ball full worked. Thanks for the reply and information. I look forward to seeing more videos.
Willie Mosconi was not concerned with the break. He stated that nine ball ball was a plunk plunk game. He was not concerned with the break because he won the lag.and he gave the break to his opponent.
There was no bigger fan of willy than myself, but you can’t win at nine ball these days, without a world class break. And he could not make a living today without playing nine ball. He was Giving up the break because he was playing 14.1 most of the time and the break wasn’t necessarily an advantage. A tremendous amount has changed in the last 50 years and he might not be a top 10 player today believe it or not. Many of the players in the top 10 today would not even have been allowed to play during his time because of their nationality. I’m from Philly. I know a lot about Mosconi. He’s the reason I play pool, but the truth is the truth.
@@FXBilliards Depression era Pocket Billiards when families were given ration stamps. and today is two different worlds. either you win or you dont eat. some people say thats why the filipino players play so good. When are you going to do a video on (Spot )Filipino rotation. Its Eferens practice game ?
Visit our new channel: www.youtube.com/@FXPOKERPRO
Thanks for the excellent tips! You mentioned the great Willie Mosconias being the reason you play pool. When I was in college, Willie came and gave an exhibition in 14-1 pool. I was honored to be his opponent. We played one game to 50 points and I was allowed to break. I made what I thought was a decent break which did not leave much, but too much! Willie proceeded to run 50 balls and I got to say I played the great Willie Mosconi!
Saw Willie in college also. learned about arm swing. I Played Efrem Reyes in bkk. got 5 in and he tookover from there.
I'm jealous, but if it had been me it would have been more than laughable if it was to a number Willie didn't achieve in the first inning. Yeah, a GREAT pool story. He was truly one of the ultimate masters of pool. Efren is another. Many others, SVB, Pagulayan, etc. Those guys are pool gods. Justin Hall came to my hall several times and was playing our best amateurs, some of whom are very good A level players. The difference in skill level was MASSIVE, seemingly an untraversable ocean.
I use my shooting stick to break, have never had a break cue. My shooting stick is 17oz, I grew up playing snooker with 12 to 14oz cues. But now I only get to play at my local bar a couple times a month. I usually get a pretty good scatter on the balls on a bar box.
Binge-watching while working in Africa. Thank you for these videos and appreciate your calm demeanor.
I just want to say as a new player youre videos like this truly do help. I love how you say it like it is and let the player determine what works for them. Thank you for the time and dedication you bring us! 🎱
Agree. And his 80% power is true for me.
One REALLY good point you made here, almost completely in passing, is if you want to see how your game is changing vs. equipment, new techniques, etc. keeping good performance and equipment, etc. notes is critical. I have found I often look back and perceive changes quite differently than I do when I go look up what was actually happening then, and now from notes I made the effort to get on paper over that time. As an example I have often perceived a slump as being much worse than it really is.
Brain I always broke with a 22 oz cue I am now using a 18.5 cue for breaking and 18.5 to shoot with I’m getting better breaks and more control thank you Bob Warfield TX
I came here to improve at pool while I’m at break at work. They gave us a pool table in the break room and I’m a beginner. I’m hoping your videos will make me better at not just breaking but also in general. I can’t wait to go to work tomorrow and try out all your tips!
Another thing you can do is join an APA team. Team mates will work with you to help make you a better player
I totally agree! Breaks are a lot overlooked and under estimated! A good breakout = A good run out! 👍👍👍
Fantastic video Bryan. You are 100 percent correct about the magic rack. It has been tested and proven. A "lose rack" or slightly small gaps between balls decrease your chance of pocketing a ball.
I just found your channel. Played competitive pool 4 decades ago and am about to retire. A friend at Thanksgiving mentioned he could teach me how to play pool and my family all nearly choked to death laughing, since they can recall the wall of trophies we used to have around. That got me to looking into it and WOW, the sport has really changed. I think that magic rack thing would have saved a lot of BS (and teeth) back in the old days! Great video and I am subscribing.
I love when I have the option to use a magic rack, It feels like it eliminates a lot of the randomness of a loose rack. I believe the break is one of the most important shots on the game, and it really sucks when you see little action on the rack because it was loose. Another great video, thanks once again for sharing great knowledge with others.
I finally won my first 8-ball pool 🎱 tournament yesterday! Since we had lock down for over a yr
Congratulations
Hi, my new best friend! I've played 8 ball for 20 years (yes, started early) with many breaks in between. I've joined another league after a long hiatus and got online for some tips. Back in the day, I had to rely on watching other players. After watching several videos, I finally thought, I can break but it's not my strength. After drudging through many tutorials, you are my favorite because you are easy to follow, you provide honest information of what to do and what NOT to do, you explain the physics of it, and I'm excited to head down to the pool hall in the next hour, and give your ideas a try. I will be revisiting your site for further info.
I am have played in tournaments and won some of them but consider myself an amateur/ semi=pro in the making. Thank you! You inspired me with your demeanor and positivity. I'll update you with my improved break!
May the force (gentle stick) be with me! Richelle
Outstanding, - thank you very much for your comments
Good info. Thanks Brian. I’m just in the early stages of deciding on a break cue
Thanks for another great video!
Magic racks are AWESOME! I decided to try the cheap Amazon 6 pack for 10 bucks or whatever it was. Racks 8, 9, 10 ball. They are so much thinner than I expected!
Thanks for watching and thanks for your comments
Probably my 4th or 5th video I've watched from you. Finally subscribed. Thanks for the tips
Watched this yesterday when CSI States started. Only broke dry twice the whole time! Great tips and review of fundamentals!
Thanks for the comment that it’s all those losses which have made me an expert racker. 😁
I had ongoing debate with several guys when I bought my break cue. Their contention was I couldn’t get up enough speed to own a lighter cue. Anyway...the cue is 17 oz with a bolt in the back that brings it to a current 20 oz. As speed improves, I’ll lighten it.
Had my first practice last Sunday. Felt good. I was terrible...but hold good memory of your tips. Will be back at the table tomorrow. Re-start APA play on 4/18. Thank you.
Great video and great advice. I plan on using some tips tonight to try out different breaks.
I grew up in Haddon Heights NJ and Willie Mosconi lived not far from me. Pretty small town and I found out after the fact that he owned that particular house. I was too young at the time to know his prominence in the billiards world. Man I wish I could have met him and played in his house.
I can only imagine the set up he must of had.
Great video! As a top player from 40 years ago there is a ton of truths in your video & I could relate to everything. I still break with my custom made break cue 18 oz from 1989 & have always used La Pro tip on it & yes Control is the top concern then is speed & mass. Kind of like getting fitted for a gold driver weight, flex, loft, lie, shaft flex & stiffness based on each persons individual body strength height weight etc. Interesting I found this video because I just started getting back into the game (check a few of my videos) & I recently saw several videos about tests of heavier break cues creating more speed on average but based on my years of experiance it’s really comes down to what your can generate the most speed & have the Most Control! And I received my Magic rack last month & love it! Cheers
No argument whatsoever on the break cue weight. I have stopped trying to convince people to put down the 25 oz. break cue. I let my break tell the story. Everything here is dead on, surprised I didn't find your channel earlier. Thanks!
One of best cues I ever had, was an 18 oz Wall Cue. It was just a Great Cue, but after 25 years it warped. I had it straightened, but it went back. I got me a BreakRAK, that's the way to Practice the Break Shot.
My Break cue is a Mike Gullespie 16 oz. cue and I love it!
Love your humor. Excellent tips. Very helpful videos.
Thanks so much!
Very effective - great information communicated clearly.
I especially enjoyed this video, and your comments about Willie! I too, was strongly influenced by him! I played him in an exhibition match at the grand opening of Rudy’s Rack and Cue in Dublin Georgia in 1971! An honor and memory I’ll never forget.
Wow this is true I purchased a 25 oz break cue and I was barely dropping balls probably a ball every 3 or 4 breaks, but I noticed when I used a 19 oz bar cue my break was awesome ,two or 3 balls every break!!
Bryan, great advice for breaking. Just on a personal note, I purchased the BK Rush the 1st day that seyberts sold them. My back has spiraled downward over the years. So as my back worsens, my break speed has deminished. The energy transfer that the rush & CF provides makes my breaks better than ever. Probably the best break cue I've ever bought due to my issues, couldn't imagine switching to anything else.
thank you for the much needed information on breaking.....
Love the intro. Makes my day watching it.
I have found that using a magic rack shiny side up (so you can read the words) will leave black residue on the table over time. Easily seen by examining a well used magic rack. I always place the rack with the shiny side down. There is no paint on that side. This will keep your table cleaner. Wish they tinted the plastic instead of painting it. Great videos Brian. Thanks.
I always pick up something helpful from your videos. Thanks!
This is great! Thanks a million.. and 18:30 is comedy Gold. "I'm usually the guy that won the match so I'm not good at racking. ".. it ain't bragging if it's true. Lol!
Most important shot of the game!
So you better get it right!
I'm impressed, how much do they cost? Endorsement question. 😆 very impressed im pretty sure I way behind watching these but they are things I know just gotta perfect to get to the next level. Thanks for the help.
Good info, and as for the magic rack, I have seen a few times a ball slow roll into it and change course, never so bad that it changes the game. However, I have seen more than a few times a rolling ball hit a dimple in the slate or spot in the felt and roll off enough to hook someone who wasn't going to be hooked, so if someone complains about the magic rack they need to fix bad tables first, that's far more common than the rack causing a problem.
Great video Bryan. I recently purchased a magic rack and love it. The community room at my residence has a table and I'm surprised at how many guys didn't like it at first. But in time they have come to appreciate it like I do. Thanks for the stop shot tip. Haven't tried it but will definitely work it into my game. Stay well. QA.
I agree, everyone, beginner to pro can learn a consistent break with the magic rack more quickly than with a regular rack. Having said that... That may be the reason the great Willie Mosconi would NOT like it. It takes some of the professional ability out of the equation. Just a thought, not trying to argue your point.
I agree with you on the weight of a cue. Lighter is better. I break with a 20.5 oz. Which is heavier than you mentioned but it seems to be in my zone. My sweet spot so to speak.
Have you tried the samsara break tip? Still very hard but is leather so still provided enough control to decrease miscues. Also doesn't damage cue balls like phenolic .
I used those tips 15 years ago before I had pro break cues. I like them. I bet I have some still in a box somewhere. I used to buy tips three and four at a time. It’s a bad idea by the way. They dry out before you use them or you change brands and waisted your money.
I really enjoy the new racks that they have. The consistency is awesome. . I remember you making a comment many months ago .? On one of your other videos. You were talking about the test and the studies on a lighter break stick. it was just a comment you slid in there. but it stuck with me... on another note about the new racks. Me having new cloth on my table. I'm enjoying the fact. that I'm not going to burn up the racking area ..that normally wears thin from repetitive wooden racks sliding over the cloth. I appreciate you and all your efforts. Bryan@ FX Billiards
I agree 💯
Thanks for the advice I really need work on this thank ya sir
I bought an 18 ounce Mace break jump cue in 1992! After reading about a break cue weight test in a pool magazine. It said they got better breaks with 18 to 19 oz cues. The light break cue info was discovered 30 years ago but seems to have been forgotten by many.
Thanks for your comments. And yes, about the cue weight. We live in a time where it seems to be fashionable among some people to ignore facts.
Very good video and verbal delivery. Clean and concise. I'm not a player but I'm at a Resort that has a table and I was playing by myself last night. I actually taught myself something/figured it out as it relates to the grip. I found that when I lightened it up, I was making more shots. Thanks for your time and tips.
Thanks for the information about not standing up on the break!!!!
I never thought of the color of the balls lighter vs darker but it's easier to see the lighter ones.
Lighter weight cues give you more speed on the swing and more control. Another thing that helps me break better is to move my grip a couple inches forward. By doing so, it gives me a longer back swing, hence a bigger distance to build up speed on the final swing forward. I believe most pro players do it too.
I wondered about that. Thanks for mentioning it. It makes sense. My breaks need all the help they can get.
Hey Bryan, on a different topic, your videos are awesome, especially for intermediate and advanced players. Did you take it back to the basics and do a video on the best products for polishing sets of pool balls. Getting those balls to get back to a decent shine and what works / helps! Thanks!
I will get something out on that. I don't do the best job of keeping my stuff clean, but I do know how to do it LOL. I will be better going forward so I will show you what I do.
Awesome Video! Great Tips! Thank You
Thank you Bryan, appreciate you....
Thanks for the video.
What about tips on an 8-ball break?
I always tell people if you going to compete you need to learn how to use both racks. Freehand and magic rack
That is really good advice. I saw you do that on your channel and it really gave me something to think about.
@@craigkendall1754 thanks man I just like to keep it real. Because some people around here don't believe that you should have ball in hand in 8 Ball. But I don't mind putting it behind the line and playing old school. Got to be able to play by any rules as long as you know what they are is what I tell people
This was a great video, I personally love the magic/accurack. I recently changed up to a break stick that's as light as my normal shooter. My favorite pool company just released their carbon fiber break shaft but I really dig their shaft I have now, weight forward for less power needed. Great video Bryan
Great video! Thank you for the insight!! 🎱
My pleasure!
Great information and content as usual. Keep up the good work brother.
Many Thanks Brian from Florida
Thanks for watching!
Heard Earl say he preferred that legal breaks be determined by a speed gun, cause they were requiring 3 balls to pass into the kitchen and breaks can be random. I also seen some tourneys where they would not use the magic rack cause run-outs were too easy. I guess there's still a lot of evolution happening with the sport
Thanks boss! Lots to learn
I really like the magic rack - like really really only when it’s an alternate break format. In a winner break format, a template rack is a disadvantage for both players.
Hey Bryan... love your vids! Your opinions coincide with mine (mostly ;)). I am breaking with a custom reverse taper break cue and carbon fiber break shaft with a clear acrylic break tip (kamikaze). I have found that you can hold the cue lightly better because of the reverse taper, your hand will actually stop at the point where the cue tapers up and any unwanted slippage during the stroke. ALL of he forward produced energy will maintained without any loss. This means that you will be able to achieve more with less. I heard you say that you have tried every type of break cue.... if you haven't tried this you should check it out... it has made a huge difference in my breaking consistency and control.
Thanks again for the great info!
I use a 17oz break cue. And my playing cue I went up to a 20oz. It just fits me better personally
Thanks for your content. It’s helped my game so much. Do you have a video on choosing a playing cue? Weight, tip, etc.?
Coming soon! And thanks for watching
Awesome tips! Thanks!
You bet!
Zero dry breaks......I did scratch 5 times tho..... love the honesty bro. Great video. Very very well schooled. Look forward to seeing more vids
Appreciate you watching Sir. Thanks for the comments. I hope you subscribe.
@@FXBilliards np.... just subscribed
I switched to my CF shaft with was a phenolic tip to white diamond tip. I break center table with medium speed.
Love the Magic Rack! Also love the TURTLE RACK ULTIMATE - 8, 9 & 10 BALL
I have a table in my airplane hanger and temperatures can fluctuate. Interestingly, I get just a little slop in the rack when it is cold. Either way, it is a consistent rack no matter who racks.
You know who hates magic racks people who can't break hate them 'cause Loose racks levels out the playin field
THAT is what I want for Fathers Day. An Airplane hanger!!! Thanks for watching Daniel and thanks for the comments. What kind of plane do you have. I used to skydive out of the Lancaster PA area. Sounds like you might be in the northeast.
Also losers would hate magic racks in winners break losers rack situations, because it takes slightly more efforts racking with magic racks. 🤣
99.99% of the pro tournaments are using magic racks, that tells it all.
@@FXBilliards North Eastern Wisconsin. I own a Cessna 150 and fly a Cessna 172 frequently. I enjoy your content. Have to get good fast, playing league in the fall. Your videos help. Thank You!
I love your statements about grip, the analogy about holding a bird in hand will allow me to beat you some day. lol.
It's a grate video..
Can you put a small spot on the exact spot off the cue ball and the other game ball...to be hit
great videos man! I've been playing pool since I was 8 years old, thought I was pretty decent but you've shown me some great techniques that I've been practicing and my games definitely improving! SUBBED!
Thanks for subbing and commenting. Have another on me.
I practice 9 ball with the 9 on the spot. For racking I have the Magic Rack and the Accu Rack. I like both of them. Always a tight rack.
Not just the size of the table, but the speed and quality of the table seems to be the biggest factor for me. Same idea that a magic rack is going to be Very different from an opponent hand racked. Thats where my consistency issues seem the worst (combined with me not knowing which works because I play on a variety of tables so often, and havent committed to enough breaking practice)
As far as the break cue goes. I break with a 21 ounce but I also do not slam it real hard but it just feels the best to me so my advice is do whatever works for you no you don't need a heavy cue do what works for you.
Thank u very much coach 🙏
Thanks Brian, good stuff!! Add the intro girl to the end of your videos, "Oh, are we done?"
You NEVER want a woman to ask you that.
Great video Bryan and much to think about. I’m on the fence with my 25 oz Rage break cue and will probably return it for something else. Spent $400 for my Viking cue and having a hard time justifying $800 for my break cue 🤔
Great video
About the heavy break cue thing. If you want to generate the most force (momentum), we know it is mass * velocity you can generate. Greater the mass, the lower the velocity you can generate. But because momentum depends on both mass and velocity generated, momentum increases with the mass of the cue up to a certain point where the mass is too heavy for you to generate enough velocity. In other words, there is some optimum weight unique to each person where they can generate the most amount of momentum. Probably stronger players may prefer a 20-ounce cue whereas weaker players like me could generate the most momentum with a 19 ounce. It would be interesting to run a series of experiments showing what the momentum generated is with certain weights of cues. 25-ounce cues, I guess unless you are The Mountain from the game of thrones, would be disadvantageous to most players, I would think because they simply could not generate enough velocity, and hence the momentum would be less (in spite of the advantage of the mass).
I think bigger stronger players have the advantage when breaking with very heavy cues.
Yes! This is exactly what I wanted to say. The stronger the player, the more weight they can bring to full momentum.
Mass times velocity SQUARED equals momentum. Lighter cues will always generate more momentum. Many experiments have been conducted on this
Thanks
The only extra thing that I make sure that I do when breaking is to make sure my foot that is furthest to the front(my left foot) is completely straight with the shot line. This ensures that if my knees break down that my body moves forward and not off to the right. This helps me to get a nice square hit on my target. Other than that... You nailed down exactly how I break. And my break cue is 17.4 oz. It kills the rack.
good breaks help me at time get at least a run out or 2 at times on Pool league night , and if i change my league to Tap i need work on my break been slacking
When I got my BK Rush I wanted to see how it stacked against my old breaker (no comparison by the way the old one is collecting dust). I used the magic rack while I was comparing to keep the results as consistent as possible. The magic rack is great I love it and I use it when I'm just practicing my breaks in general. But when I play my normal games I don't. Bad racks can lead to more issues (clusters, frozen, etc) but since I can't always control the rack or who is doing it I like the experience that comes from solving the problems tbat arise. But that's just me. I love the magic rack but I learn to break with and without them. Especially in a bar if people rack and there are gaps leanring to break a bad rack can be a different ball game.
Great content once again thx.
Glad you enjoyed it thanks for watching
I'm usually the one breaking the balls, but when I rack the balls using a wood or plastic rack, I roll the balls up to the spot fast and stop and remove the rack and never touch the balls and the balls are tight ,that's the way I was told to rack when I first learned how to play, I was also told to never let anybody touch the balls when they take the rack off the balls . I'M old school when I see all the stuff these guys do while racking I'd put a stop to it no matter who they are. The template rack gives a tight rack every time, but I see people reracking the balls several times ,inspecting the rack for several minutes and then asking for a rerack. I was told if the head ball or middle ball is on the spot ,depending on who you play , if the rack is tight, and if the rack is straight that is a good rack.
I only get to play in a bar, so the racks are not always that good. So I always look for the gaps to decide where I'm going to shoot from when I break.
Where do you live? May want to take a few lessons from you! I like your explanations and demeanor when explaining them.
You have got a new subscriber here!
Cheers and thanks!
David Ridgeway
I'm in the Philadelphia tri state area. PA,NJ, DE You can visit FXBilliards.com for info on lessons or to contact me about lessons. Thanks for watching.
You sound like Denzel Washington teaching us pool after a day off shooting bad guys lol
Good stuff -thanks for watching
Could you please talk about old school racks? I can make balls with template struggling with barbox and table racks.
I personally asked The Black Widow the weight of her cue; she said "Know one uses anything above a 19" Great instruction!
Hey K. I think you meant NO One but I get your point. Thanks for watching.
Oops I got excited! Lol
That’s true, lighter cue breaks more better, my break cue has no weight bolt on them
Hi Bryan. Thanks for the great tips! I know (at least in BCA 9-ball) that aside from the 9-ball, the others balls "will be placed in the diamond without purposeful or intentional pattern". Can you comment on this? In your experience have you seen players disregard this and issues do pattern racking? Do you think it's okay? Just curious if people try to adhere to the rules or if they place balls in certain positions to their favor. Thank you.
you just make me Lough when you said you are bad racker it makes sense I'm one too, and until you mention it. I am not used to rack so often due to the other guy loosing
When i break i don't break with a level because if i break
i strike down slightly into the table and i am able to jump the ball into the rack
i put a bit of topspin on the cue ball to help stop it near the middle and i don't slam the break because of that so i am able to pocket some balls on the break consistently
Hi Bryan, I personally love the Magic Rack as you do. I play APA and have found only one other person who has ever seen it. It does me no good to use it if my opponent won't. In fact, it only helps him. How should I approach them and get them to use it? I have tried telling them that there is no tighter rack possible and how easy it is to use but they are simply afraid of it because they have never seen it. I HATE using the traditional racks because I can never keep the balls from rolling much less make a tight rack. Suggestions?
You might need to tap a ball down into the cloth to make it stay in place. Even though I hate to do that sometimes you’re only choice.
People ask me how I break so hard to barely going anything ....really loose hand grip like this guy said...I do that with my whole are ....I use zero muscle power it's the speed of the cue and I let the weight of the cue do the rest ... I don't have a huge back wing either ..but I do have a huge follow through with the cue. Its all Technique.
Don’t forget to subscribe
I think the best break is just off center a little closer than first diamond for control. I cue about a quarter to half tip high hit about 80 % strength and I'm almost always in the middle of table with cue. Just remember no break is the perfect break. I would suggest mastering two different angle breaks because every table is different.
Brian, are you still planning on making a road trip this year? If so please come to Columbia SC. I still have not found any professional billiard instructors here.
I do hope to make a road trip starting with the Northeast. No way I can go to every state but there is a patron of the channel who has invited me to stay at their place in South Carolina, so I might just make it there.
@@FXBilliards if you make it anywhere in the southeast I should be able to get there.
Bryan you had me thinking about 9 ball breaks in this video. Question for you. What do you think of Corey Deuel's "soft break" for 9 and 10 ball? Would you recommend that strategy?
Corey is the mad scientist of breaking. I think anything he does is worth considering. He has literally caused rule changes around the world.
I watch all your videos, this one leaves me with a question (for my situation). For the last 2 months, I have either scratched (via pocketing) or scratched (via q ball jumping off the table) on roughly 50% of my breaks.
How can this be avoided, or why is it happening?
I thought to much power, didn’t fix the problem. To much follow, didn’t fix the problem. I have tried moving my break point to multiple spots, didn’t fix the problem. I’m stumped on why I keep scratching on the break.
If the cue ball is coming off the table, you may be hitting down on the ball when you break- make sure your cue is level because if it comes off the table means it was airborne when it hit the rack. Other reasons for scratching will depend on where you are actually scratching.
@@FXBilliards I was always scratching in the right corner down table by the rack.
Last night I plays in Tuesday tournament (3 matches race to 2, and 4 games at single elimination)… 10 total games I broke 7 times with no scratches and only 2 dry breaks.
If I include 6 “warm up” games I broke 13 times with no scratches and 2 dry. Leveling out my cue as much as possible, and hitting the head ball full worked.
Thanks for the reply and information. I look forward to seeing more videos.
Hey Brian how you doing Alex from Denver Colorado. Do you prefer the BK rush you were showing there in your video well over a BK3.
Willie Mosconi was not concerned with the break. He stated that nine ball ball was a plunk plunk game. He was not concerned with the break because he won the lag.and he gave the break to his opponent.
There was no bigger fan of willy than myself, but you can’t win at nine ball these days, without a world class break. And he could not make a living today without playing nine ball. He was Giving up the break because he was playing 14.1 most of the time and the break wasn’t necessarily an advantage. A tremendous amount has changed in the last 50 years and he might not be a top 10 player today believe it or not. Many of the players in the top 10 today would not even have been allowed to play during his time because of their nationality. I’m from Philly. I know a lot about Mosconi. He’s the reason I play pool, but the truth is the truth.
@@FXBilliards Depression era Pocket Billiards when families were given ration stamps. and today is two different worlds. either you win or you dont eat. some people say thats why the filipino players play so good. When are you going to do a video on (Spot )Filipino rotation. Its Eferens practice game ?