DRAW SHOT CONTROL … How to Be Accurate and Consistent Using Backspin

[@DrDaveBilliards]

*Contents:* 0:00 - Intro 0:16 - Technique 2:10 - Low and Slow is the Way to Go 4:32 - Draw Distance Control with Low Tip 7:07 - Draw Distance Control with Tip Height 7:59 - Stun-Back Control 9:12 - Draw Distance Visualization 11:00 - Long Power Draw 12:16 - Wrap Up *Supporting Resources:* - draw resource pages: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/ - draw technique advice: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/advice-and-drills/ - “Top 10 SECRETS of a Good DRAW/Backspin/Screw-Back SHOT” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4izgJlpeqh4m5Y - speed control advice resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/speed/advice/ - “Top 10 Speed Control Tips and Drills” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6q1Y4KmeKiWnsU - power draw technique advice: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/power/ - Video Encyclopedia of Pool Shots (VEPS): drdavebilliards.com/veps/ - “How to Master STUN BACK and STUN RUN THROUGH” video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqHSdJ-fgdRoisk *Subscribe to Dr. Dave's KZbin Channel:* kzbin.info

[@mitchfishes]

Hey dave, what cue are you using 🤔

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@mitchfishes All the equipment I use is listed here: billiards.colostate.edu/dr-dave/interview/#Case

[@jamesdavis8731]

They say envy is not good, but what the hell - I am envious of players with really good draw power and accuracy. Having a good draw shot that can be controlled just opens so many more position and pattern play opportunities. I do not have a good draw shot that I can depend on, but the other day, in a pool hall playing a good player I decided to not let the draw shot intimidate me. My opponent scratched, but from where my last ball was I could really only hit a draw shot over half the table to get on the eight. I ended up hitting the shot absolutely perfect and won the game and match. Any other shot to get on the eight would have been extremely difficult because of the traffic - but this draw shot was the obvious choice and something I probably could not have hit properly just a few months ago. The ability to draw consistently and accurately is super important to being a good player. Excellent video here and I will continue to work on the drills shown here. Winning is a lot of fun.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Stun and follow control is more important, but when you are forced to draw, you obviously need to do it well. Check out my CB Control Tutorial page if you want to get better at everything: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/cue-ball-control/

[@BlackStarEOP]

Reminds me of a similar situation, I had a full straight shot on my last ball before the 8 and the only option was to draw back to get a proper shot on the 8. I think the distance was 5 diamonds orso, normally when I blast the cueball on a distance like that I miss the shot entirely, this time I didn't, I blast the cueball straight on, pocketed the object ball, drew back 1-2 diamond and had a nearly straight shot on the 8. The only thing my opponent said was "I'm getting completely owned here" 😂

[@BlackStarEOP]

Great tip for low aim / slow speed for stop shots, I've been doing it like this for as long as I can remember but I never had a good reason to do it this way. The long distance power draw shots are still on my bucket list though, the best I can manage is a stop shot and the best draw so far is 3 - 4 diamonds and have the cue ball draw back 2-3 diamonds. I'll keep practicing! I'll just go by the mantra "draw for show, follow for dough" ;)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Low and Slow is the Way to Go. Draw for Show, Follow for the Dough. Good words to live by.

[@SpaceboyBilliards]

I always did that for stop shots as well but I love to play a lot of draw, drag draw, even bottom inside. Just natural to some players. That's a sign you're not just a person that plays pool

[@zanethind]

Yeah I still can't do that long power draw like De Luna, Deuel, and Shane

[@zanethind]

The draw power from Shane, De Luna, and Corey Deuel are just unbelievable and looks too cool. Can't wait to get that one day

[@DrDaveBilliards]

They do have amazing skill, but it also helps that the cloth used in these tournaments is usually new, slick, and fast. That makes draw much easier.

[@parashararamesh4252]

A mental trick for me is to actually visualise and feel the rotations on the ball as I am hitting it. As a cricket player , I usually bowl with spin so I have pretty decent gut feel of the rotations on the ball as and when I grip and leave it from my hand. Similarly, when I try to play the draw shot I genuinely try to "be the ball" and visualise how many rotations I should impart and feel through the shot to see if it happens the same way.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Visualization is an important and powerful thing in all sports.

[@shanesoldner9117]

Great video Dave, It covers all of the technical aspects. At the end, you were talking about shooting to stun past the object ball in order to get draw. This is the way I shoot and I think it is the end goal for everybody for the following reasons. Using a combination of aiming past the object ball and varying how far down I hit the cue ball. I should be able to get a stun shot from any legitimate spot on the table. (I don't usually vary my bridge length because a lot of times it is bound by the shot I am shooting.) Once someone learns how those two things work together they can target any point with whatever speed is needed for your shot. I call that point the flip over point (fop). It is the point where cueball is sliding, so if the fop is at the object ball, it is a stun shot. Sometimes I want to stay very close to center ball and hit harder, even from across the table, because I get less deflection and speed kills action. Other times I want to hit really low and really slow and maybe even throw. I'm sure you already understand all of this but I have found a trap that is easy to fall into when shooting this way. So I wanted to mention it in case you have not thought of it. The FOP becomes the target in your head. If you are shooting a straight shot and are targeting 6in past the cue ball you should have no problems, but if you have an angled shot the FOP is not on the same line, it moves to the right as you cut to the left. And if the FOP is target in your head before you get down it's very likely that it's also the target for your transition. So if you don't very deliberately pick the right spot, you will set your body up on the wrong line. And if your body is on the wrong line, the entire shot becomes bad.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@brianlittle717]

This is the best pool video I’ve seen. I liked and subscribed and watched it twice! Now I’m gonna watch the full video!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to here it. I hope it helps!

[@Danumurti18]

Wooow, the one that actually works.. I always jump the ball after watching a bunch of another videos, because they say to aim very low

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad it helped. But it is better to aim low. If you are scooping, you are most likely tensing up during the stroke. For lots of good draw shot technique advice, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/advice-and-drills/

[@subieracer005]

That just blew my mind.. I can't wait to try this out... i have been shooting stop shots so wrong.....

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I hope it helps.

[@subieracer005]

@@DrDaveBilliards I never thought to shoot so low for stop shots.. One of the best things about your tips is the graphic in the corner showing where you hit the ball.. and using a striped ball to show the aim point.. so simple yet perfect.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it.

[@markyang1637]

Hey Dr. David, It's been a fantastic journey following your content for the past few years, and I've learned so much from your insightful teachings. I've got an exciting idea for a future video that I think would be a real hit with your audience. How about recording yourself in a real game situation, playing against either other instructors or skilled pool players? It would be incredible to see you in action and witness firsthand how you apply the strategies and techniques you've been teaching us. Imagine if you could comment on the recording, sharing your thoughts and strategies for every shot you make! That would be an absolute game-changer. I truly believe this kind of content would be beneficial for all of us aspiring pool players. It's one thing to learn the theory, but seeing it put into practice in a real game scenario would take our understanding to a whole new level. Thank you for taking the time to consider my suggestion. Your dedication to your viewers is what makes your channel stand out, and I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing more awesome content from you. Keep up the fantastic work!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good idea. FYI, I already have lots of videos providing commentary and analysis of my playing under "Example Videos of Dr. Dave Playing Pool" at the bottom of the page here: billiards.colostate.edu/dr-dave/ I also have many useful pattern run-out examples in the videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/drill/ppc/ I have also analyzed many pro runouts and shots here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/ billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ That should keep you busy for a while! Enjoy!

[@sawyerthompson6583]

I feel like it could be my cue but I tend to miscue a lot on draw shots or even jump them from time to time I’m also only 6 months into learning could definitely be a form or stroke issue thanks for all the great videos !

[@theawesomnes3848]

I used to have the same problem just make sure ur stroking through the ball and make sure u have a loose grip hand not bridge I mean grip that’s what mainly helped me it’s not ur cue it’s not the tip it’s the stroke u can draw the cue ball with a broom handle if the stroke is good it’s all in the stroke don’t poke the ball stroke it

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The most common cause for this is tensing up during the shot, causing the tip to drop. Be sure to stay relaxed as possible, especially the grip hand. The info and advice here might be useful also: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/advice-and-drills/

[@sawyerthompson6583]

@@DrDaveBilliards thanks again man I really do appreciate the tips 💪🏼

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@sawyerthompson6583 You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@brandonmontemayor8178]

I played my first tournament today. I placed. All the guys welcomed me right in, and were surprised when I told them I just got my cue last week. Haha I mean I’ve played in bars growing up sometimes. But I surprised myself by picking the sport up so well

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Nice job!

[@freddefelice1419]

Thanks Dave your videos have helped me a great deal

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad to hear it. You’re welcome.

[@CocoboloCowboy]

Per Dr. Dave a does of good medicine, any one can do what Dr. Dave dose. Only strung to doing like Dr. Dave is simple all you need fo is practice.😮

[@shannonbennett5692]

I accidentally drew the cue ball back into a pocket on a ball in hand during league last week.

[@seanstapelfeld6448]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That takes "talent." :)

[@OwOKrieger]

Beeeeen there

[@jijohoyérimaéric]

Hi Mr Dave. I leant and keep on learning a lot from you. I'm from Benin, from West africa. Tell me Where can I get second hand pool tables?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I don’t have any experience with buying used tables.

[@philipv.mcharris5010]

Such a helpful video!! Quick question, Dr. Dave: on the stun resource page, you say “ With a stun shot, the CB must be struck below center. The bottom spin will wear off (this is called drag) on the way to the OB.” But here you say, while not recommended for control, you say that you can use fast speed with a center ball hit at close distances - can you use strictly center ball for a stun or will it need even a fraction of back spin even at fast speeds and close distances? Thanks, Dr. Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Strictly speaking, a short, fast stop shot does require a minuscule amount of backspin; but practically speaking, the tip will be at “center ball.”

[@chamueladejo4697]

Salamat sa mga tips ❤❤

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I hope they help.

[@MikeyD8632]

I now have a mean draw shot thanks Dr Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it.

[@larrylozuk]

Nice video. Man, I want to draw it like an engineering professor . . .

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@Halfgig57]

As always, excellent!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you!

[@davepaul118]

Loose grip, loose grip, loose grip, loose grip

[@arijano82]

Yes but for long draw shots its hard to have a loose grip at the same time hit the ball at the right place. Ana solution?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

"Loose" is not the best word. "Relaxed" is better. The grip should not be loose and sloppy. It should be closed but with no tightness.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

For those who want grip advice, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/grip/technique/

[@jsweat717]

Thanks for your videos Dave. Love them all. Curious what your Fargo is? With your knowledge I would think you would be a pro 🤔

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I am a professional instructor, not a professional player. I don't have a FargoRate since I have played only in VNEA leagues and tournaments, but I've been told I would probably be in the 650 range.

[@jayluck8047]

6:20 - Now you’re just showing off. 😁

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I didn't like the miscue (which happened more than once during filming), but at least this one was "interesting."

[@joedon1706]

I would like some advice about how not to blink when I am trying to hit hard.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Maybe practice in front of a mirror, staring at your eyes in the mirror during fast-speed strokes. Also make sure you are using a recommended eye pattern: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/pattern/

[@joncue0304]

That stun run through and stun back might be the most powerful shots in the game (except the break).

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Key when you need them.

[@randallnorman1727]

Thanks Dr. Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I hope it helps.

[@dip-stopde532]

Thank you, really very understandable explained👋👋👋 Maybe you could add a german subtitle

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, on a computer, you can view subtitles in any language by clicking on the closed caption (CC) icon at the bottom of the video. Then click on the Settings (gear) icon and select the language you want under "Subtitles/CC." Unfortunately, this doesn't yet work on mobile devices.

[@jairambalkaran4964]

Excellent video thank you,

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it.

[@YPOC]

Hello Dr. Dave, I have a question: When playing a long roll shot without any side spin, where great accuracy is required and the long distance makes it that every slide is fully converted to a full forward roll, what would be the best spot to hit the cue ball? I usually play high, thinking I want the cue ball to roll anyway. On the other hand playing low could be better, since the higher speed while sliding will reduce the impact of cloth unevenness. But maybe playing a center ball is best, since I could imagine it's easier to play a straight shot with no spin there. What is correct?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you trust the table to roll true, it is better to use an above-center hit and roll the ball. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/follow/accuracy/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-tip/height/ If not, a drag shot is a better approach: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/drag/

[@waloood15]

Very nice video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I'm glad you liked it.

[@brianlittle717]

What’s the noise called where it sounds like you hit the ball with a stick of wood? That’s what happens when I hit off center and try this. Maybe I’m not using enough chalk? I’ll try next time to chalk it like the video said!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Chalk is important, but proper technique is also extremely important. See the videos and info here for help: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/advice-and-drills/

[@1Andypro]

Thanks Dave! It also seems as if the miscue limit changes depending on cloth conditions. Is there any truth to that? I find that when I play on a local bar box, the cloth grabs a lot more than my table at home and I can miscue at what seem like very safe tip positions.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but the cloth has nothing to do with the miscue limit (except maybe psychologically).

[@NoLimitBamBam]

Miscueing has more to do with friction point between the cue tip and ball. Chalk every shot to increase the friction.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@NoLimitBamBam Chalking is important, but the lowness of the hit is also critical. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/sidespin/maximum/

[@new2POOL208]

Thought you meant "tip conditions." I read that as if you said tip not cloth. So I was like well yes

[@waelfdhila4606]

Hi Pat!

[@vincentbeaurivage]

From minute 10 to 11…. LISTEN CAREFULLY… THEN LISTEN AGAIN! THIS is the only thing you need to master backspin!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't use that ROT myself, but it can definitely help some people.

[@vincentbeaurivage]

@@DrDaveBilliards I USE IT and it’s been one the best improvement in my CB control once you recognize that every backspin in only a stop shot projected to an equal distance behind the ball!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@vincentbeaurivage Well stated.

[@edgat6]

Where can I buy the circular markings for the balls?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

See: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/training/teaching/

[@SpaceboyBilliards]

Staples, target, Walmart. Theyre binder reinforcement stickers

[@ThiccEagle]

Good tips. Through enough practice, you dont need to consciously think of tip position or speed of your forward swing

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. "Feel" built up from many hours of successful practice and experience is a valuable thing.

[@M.Mae.M]

Biggest struggle in my game at this point.

[@savingferris9998]

I second that haha

[@savingferris9998]

I keep stunning it and then having to make crazy pots

[@MikeyD8632]

I had a major breakthrough by letting my Pinky open up and stay loose on my power stroke. Keeping my thumb and index finger slightly loose but strong enough to hold the cue properly. Now I can draw the whole table and have much better speed control. Especially on draw shots. I went from inconsistent results to feeling like a pro in one day. It's all in your stroke and follow through. Be a Statue and pull back slow while locked on target. Good luck and thanks to Dr.Dave we can make fast progress

[@DrDaveBilliards]

For those who want to improve, the info and videos here might help: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/advice-and-drills/ Especially useful might by the "Top 10 SECRETS of a Good DRAW/Backspin/Screw-Back SHOT" video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4izgJlpeqh4m5Y

[@alucardx1234]

A common issue is dropping your elbow early resulting in your forward stroke hitting higher on the cue ball then expected. Use your phone and record movies of yourself trying to draw.

[@iknowallthesadsongs2115]

I've tried this like 200 times got it once idk what I'm doing wrong

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Some of the info and advice here might help (in addition to more practice): billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/advice-and-drills/

[@maryfithen5006]

How do y turn off

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I need a little more info.

[@រៀនរស់ជាមួយបញ្ហា]

ទាញបានល្អ

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you.

[@allgood6760]

Cool👍🇳🇿🎱

[@markinjhawkland724]

Are you no longer a professer at Colorado State University?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That is correct. I retired a couple of years ago after 30 years of teaching. Now I just do my billiards stuff.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Although, I am an "Professor Emeritus," so I still have some attachment to CSU.

[@robertnoonan2992]

It looks like a dime shaped tip or even smaller ?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It is about dime shape, but it doesn’t really matter much per the info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue-tip/size-and-shape/

[@cx123456]

1:00 i just realized how hairy her hands are! 🤣

[@gam3rman85]

are you referring to 1:04? those are definitely Dr. Daves

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yep. The hairy ones are mine. :)

[@shawjoe71]

@@gam3rman85 omg

[@Krushard]

You're all ruining his joke :)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@Krushard Good point. His joke was funny.

[@cosmicraysshotsintothelight]

I was unaware that the stripe on a ball had a width specification. But i feel ya, man. ;-)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The stripes on most ball brands and models are unfortunately a little wider than the "standard size."

[@cosmicraysshotsintothelight]

@@DrDaveBilliards Chalk is free... ;-)