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. It's not enough to hit the ball. You'll need to hit the ball hard. The greater the chances that it will be able to pocket, the more you hit it.
A stunshot is a shot which requires a strong hit. In a straight pool game, this means the cue ball has to travel straight in, and not veer off course. This is often accomplished by lifting the butt end or putting an oblique jack.
A "break", or shot made at the final OB of a straight game of pool, is called a "break". There are several different types of break shots. Some are designed to help you escape trouble while others are to help make it easier for you to score. One example of this is the golden pocket, also known as the golden break.
Another option is to break-out or break-out. This type is a great way to score quick shots when the ball cluster moves out of position. If your shot is good, it may cause your opponent to be shaken up and put in a bad place. Often, a good hit will result in an OB that is still on the table, making it harder to knock the ball off.
The "break", however, is not the only way you can score a win. Other ways to do the same thing include the following:
Grade A shot: This shot has a high chance of success. One example is a hit that hits the OB first. Then, a second hit could win the OB.
Fancy shot: This is a rare skill that takes a lot of practice and a prop or two. A "J" stroke is a shorter, more punchy stroke. Unlike a jab stroke, a "J" stroke is curved, like a pendulum. A "jellyroll" is an additional benefit for the shooter.
Fancy-looking: A fancy-looking shot can also be called a "flight". Flight is a fancy shot that looks impressive but is not always the most accurate. 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 good to keep it close at hand. You could lose the match if you don't have it.
A stun shot can also be called the jelly roll or grade "B" shot. But which is the most important one?
In the pool world, a nip draw is a good idea because it keeps the CB from hopping off the table. A nip stroke is a little more complicated, as the follow through is minimal.