How to Play One Pocket - with the “Official Rules”

Dr. Dave uses excerpts from the Video Encyclopedia of One-Pocket (VEOP) to discuss and demonstrate the generally-accepted rules and strategy of the wonderful game of one-pocket.
Contents:
0:00 - Intro
0:25 - Game Basics
2:30 - Rules
3:58 - Fouls
6:58 - Ball Spotting
8:58 - 3-Foul Rule
9:45 - End-Game Strategy
14:11 - Wrap Up
Supporting Resources:
- Video Encyclopedia of One Pocket (VEOP): drdavebilliards.com/videos/veop/
- one-pocket resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/g...
- recommended WPA-style one-pocket rules: billiards.colostate.edu/resou...
- pool rules resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/resou...
- pool fouls resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/f...
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Good Luck With Your Game!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

*Contents:* 0:00 - Intro 0:25 - Game Basics 2:30 - Rules 3:58 - Fouls 6:58 - Ball Spotting 8:58 - 3-Foul Rule 9:45 - End-Game Strategy 14:11 - Wrap Up *Supporting Resources:* - Video Encyclopedia of One Pocket (VEOP): drdavebilliards.com/videos/veop/ - one-pocket resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/game/one-pocket/ - recommended WPA-style one-pocket rules: billiards.colostate.edu/resource_files/WPA-style_1P_rules.pdf - pool rules resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/resources/rules/ - pool fouls resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/foul/ *Subscribe to Dr. Dave's KZbin Channel:* kzbin.info

[@naonao76]

Hi @DrDaveBilliards. Can you make a "One Ball One Pocket How To Play" video to go over those rules and strategies, as well! It would also allow that game to gain more exposure.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@naonao76 I already have lots of one-pocket strategy and shot example videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/game/one-pocket/ Check them out.

[@naonao76]

@@DrDaveBilliards Those are "One pocket" resources. I said "One Ball One Pocket" :).

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@naonao76 Sorry for not reading your message carefully. Honestly, I don't think "one ball one pocket" would be of any interest to most of my viewers.

[@Brian-nu8ss]

Perfect timing with the US Open One Pocket ongoing!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I honestly didn't plan it that way ... or did I? :)

[@kalindatchev994]

Two things I learned from this video: 1. Dr. Dave knows his stuff 2. Whenever I attempt a game of one-pocket I need this video on speed dial in order to recall all the rules

[@DrDaveBilliards]

1. Thanks. 2. You can also print or refer to this concise summary: billiards.colostate.edu/resource_files/WPA-style_1P_rules.pdf

[@MSPcraps]

Thanks Dave. I love the strategic aspect of one pocket. I might have to give it a try.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. 1P is an awesome game!

[@CocoboloCowboy]

One of your BEST U-Tubes Dave, because One Pocket is my Favorite Game!🥳

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you got what you wanted. Thanks.

[@ilikanikmusterman9036]

I really got into 1P recently, but was too lazy to read about all the rules.... this video was just what I needed! Greentings from Germany!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you got what you wanted.

[@DashingRave]

Yay! I know how to play 8, 9 and 10 ball already. But never had a chance to learn one-pocket. A lot of the old-timers at my local pool hall play one-pocket, so now I can play with them without looking like a dummy. Thanks Dr. Dave! 🙏

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad my video will help you not look like a dummy. :)

[@crysylis5093]

Thanks a ton! I’m glad you posted this!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. Me too!

[@BMack37]

I've played pool since I was a child, have played one pocket numerous times; I still learned rules I never knew, great video with examples of unique situations with spotting and the kitchen rules.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked the video.

[@jamesdavis8731]

Challenging and fun game to play - brutal for most to watch and therefore one of the reasons most do not know much about it. More should play though because it can really help you in other games. You just learn to see the table in a much different way and see shots you would not have otherwise thought about.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@Jedcoe]

I've tried to convince my pool hall owners that I should get a discount when playing one-pocket, since we're only using 1/3rd of the pockets, but they've been less than receptive. They didn't find that argument very compelling for 9-ball, either. This is a great video, but I'm still waiting for that laundry folding tutorial.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I like the way you think. That laundry folding video is proving a bit too difficult. :)

[@2colossery]

God I love 1P! Thanks for giving this discipline some extra attention!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. It is such an awesome game for those with the skill or appreciation.

[@creedolala6918]

This is great. The only things I might add to it, is the basic concept of 'the safest place on the table is usually near the opponent's pocket'. And maybe a word on how and why 1p players hit the break safely with inside. Even though the focus is on rules, I think it would get beginners started on the right foot, if they know those 2 things right away.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good points. We cover these and many more useful elements of strategy in detail in VEOP.

[@The100KServer]

There are a few rules in this video that I have never used. Been playing one hole for a long time. Good video!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it.

[@ethanletzer3507]

Hey Dr. Dave!! As always thank you for taking the time to put these vids together. You've done more for my game than Accu Stats ever did lol 😁

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. Thank you for the supportive comment.

[@klawiehr]

Wow, what a great game. Now I can appreciate the artists at work in all those Accu-stats one-pocket videos. I never learned one-pocket rules and strategy (beyond the basic premise) so this video was useful.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad the video will help you better appreciate this awesome game and the artists who play it.

[@ArkanoidZero]

Will you be covering the official rules of snooker, particularly the differences from pool rules?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I do not have access to snooker equipment, nor do I have much experience with the game; although, I love watching world-class snooker matches.

[@sahildhanju2814]

Snooker is vastly different. It's like comparing the rules of basketball and soccer.

[@zanethind]

Thanks for this Dave. I actually needed this because for a long time me and my friends have been playing one pocket but I was always wondering what the proper rules are

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You can print or pull up the proper rules here: billiards.colostate.edu/resource_files/WPA-style_1P_rules.pdf and much more info can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/game/one-pocket/

[@zanethind]

@@DrDaveBilliards 👍

[@trailerwookie]

Maybe you could show the various break shots for one pocket and how to execute them. Occasionally I like the kick break, freezing the cue ball into the rack.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

We cover everything, including breaking strategy and options, in detail on VEOP.

[@TheNSAisWatching]

Great video as always. Thanks Doc.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you’re welcome.

[@thegodofpez]

Such an intricate and deep game. Definitely not for beginners! As an intermediate at best, I still need to get my 8/9/10 ball games in check before trying this. Great tutorial, doc! 🤟

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Thanks.

[@boogiemanspud]

1P will likely help you a ton with your 8/9/10 ball games. If you find some old timers playing it, it wouldn't hurt to ask if you can watch or play with them a bit. Might even offer to pay some of their table time if it seems appropriate. It's an amazing game, it's never too early to start!

[@alyssavarner8474]

You should film a match of different styles of game. Do commentary on difficult situations during the match, and fast forward through the wait periods between shots. Or cutting them etc. I’d be very interested to watch difficult situations and see what to do after mistakes in a natural environment.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

We have a lot of this in VEOP: drdavebilliards.com/videos/veop/ There are also lots of great narrated pro matches here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/one-pocket/

[@paulajones4037]

Thanks😊

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@carlkinsmanchannel]

Would love to see a vid for straight pool 14.1 ... love all your vids.. thanks !!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

See: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJilmodqrruYgNk

[@mkoz1134]

Lol "oh you Damn right bob". Thank God for bob.

[@crondawg101]

Are straight pool & bank pool on the way?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I think I'm done with this series, but maybe I'll reconsider.

[@DangerousWillie]

Would like to see a vid on straight pool.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@DangerousWillie I did a basic one in the past. Check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJilmodqrruYgNk

[@lmfoarobot]

Hi Dave! Love your content and what you're doing for amateurs like me in pool. Do you plan on doing a similar video but for straight pool? Thanks 😄

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you like my stuff. I did a straight pool video in the past: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jn6ainSQYryaeMU

[@user-ou4ut3yy1j]

Gostei muito! Obrigado!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad. You’re welcome.

[@JuneJ7]

Can you please do some 3 cushion billiards videos? I really want to get into it but you don’t have any videos on it and I’ve literally learned everything I know about pool from you 😭

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I don't have access to a 3-cushion billiard table, nor do I have much experience with the game. Although, I do have a good collection of 3-cushion billiard videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/3-cushion/

[@boogiemanspud]

1P will improve ANY and ALL games you play on the pool table. It's great for opening you up to out of the box thinking on offense and defense and getting proficient at certain shots that are only normal to 1P. Your opponent's head may explode when you pull off a 1P specialty shot like it was simply a rote shot in another pool discipline.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

1P is definitely a teacher.

[@samhaigler1716]

Great video, Dr. Dave. What would you say is your favorite discipline of pool?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. My favorite game is bar-box 8-ball due to the strategy and CB-control finesse required, and since a smart player with good skills can run out often.

[@MikeyD22]

@@DrDaveBilliards Great choice, Dr. Dave. SVB feels the same way. My favorite also.

[@Krushard]

Hm, I remember comments during the recent DCC stream that jump cue is allowed in 1pkt, it's just rarely used because of the high risk of selling out. Maybe just a hearsay, didn't check the official rules tho.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

There really are not “official rules” of one-pocket; but under “generally accepted” one-pocket rules, jump shots are allowed, but not jump cues.

[@AndrewT]

@6:32 are those balls all in the racking area near your pockets? If so, shouldn't ball in hand be from the 'kitchen' be at the head of the table where you break from? Or are the ball in hand rules different for one pocket? Do you get ball in hand at the 'bottom' of the table and have to shoot upwards towards the breaking area?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

How fouls and ball-in-hand are handled in one-pocket are very different from other games, as summarized in the video.

[@IUseYouTube2]

@@DrDaveBilliards I had the same question as above. I'm still confused about the answer. If I understand correctly, in the scenario @6:32, all the balls are behind the head string (in the breaking area). Correct? And if so, is it fair to say that would be a very unusual situation in One Pocket, at least for high-skill players, to have that many balls in the kitchen.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

​@@IUseKZbin2 When a player has a big game score advantage, a good tactic is to put unfavorable balls out of play by sending them up table. This is called an "up-table game." It is more common than you might think.

[@puboh]

Is there reason why Bob and you used the white CB instead of the measle ball?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... only because it was part of a new set we used for the first time for the video (so everything would be shiny and pretty).

[@AffectionateChess-yj6ws]

Could you please make a video for pyramid pool or Russian bilyard showing the rules

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I don’t have access to a Russian billiard table, nor do I have personal experience with the game.

[@VetteWay2Fast]

I may have missed when this was mentioned, but just to clarify, it does not matter if it is a strip or solid that is pocketed in your corner. Just 8 total balls correct?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Correct.

[@billwrinkle9662]

I'm confused about one simple part: If you purposefully and directly hit a ball into one of the four non-player pockets for strategic reasons, or fluke it in accidentally and it is the only ball pocketed on that shot, then the ball is spotted. But is it also a foul? Or is it just loss of shot? Also, on the break, is it required to hit the head ball on the rack? Or can you play off anywhere on the rack like in snooker?

[@G35Jeff]

Other 4 pockets not a foul. You may hit any ball on the break.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@G35Jeff Good reply. Thanks.

[@zanethind]

So you cab choose what pocket you want before the break? Because my friend told me whatever side you break from is your designated pocket

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yes. The standard break is from the opponent’s side (to send balls toward your chosen pocket).

[@zanethind]

@@DrDaveBilliards ok thanks Dr Dave

[@philipallenson8771]

The scratch example shows the one ball behind the head string? Can you explain?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Please post a MM:SS timestamp so I will know which scratch you are talking about (and find it quicker).

[@philipallenson8771]

@@DrDaveBilliards 6:46 Thanks!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@philipallenson8771 There are rule variations in one-pocket, but official rules in all pool games treat balls as inside or outside the “kitchen” based on where the center of the ball is.

[@brytheheretic]

having an example of someone owing three balls in the beginning of the foul section and then later explaining that three fouls is a loss can be quite confusing or at the worst misleading, it made me question how someone owed three balls if three fouls end the game

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. I can see how that might be confusing. However, loss of game occurs only with 3 “consecutive” fouls.

[@marcmalmberg7029]

At 10:30, why not intentionally double hit the cue ball? Would have the same effect, but less haphazard and probably more acceptable for tournament directors

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't see how that could apply to the shot at 10:30, unless you follow through a ridiculous amount (or even move your bridge forward) to help create a very late second hit in a way that would be considered "unsportsmanlike conduct" in any other pool game (which potentially comes with a stiffer penalty).

[@marcmalmberg7029]

I was picturing an exaggerated follow through where the 2x hit was obvious, but you're right I didn't consider that it's considered unsportsmanlike conduct rather than a routine foul

[@3941602]

Dr. Dave you used a Efrain Reyes clip. How is his 1 pocket pool game?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He is considered one of the best ever at the game.

[@3941602]

@@DrDaveBilliardsThanks for the reply. I know he is a legend at 8ball & 9ball. Was not sure bout One pocket. Also whats your thoughts on Ronnie Sulluvian the snooker player

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@3941602 I love watching the GOAT of snooker play. His longevity at the world class level has been staggering!

[@audrichvuneo181]

Will you be doing straight pool?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I already have: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJilmodqrruYgNk

[@whitigir]

So any other pockets than your own = a spot = losing a turn but not a foul ? Unless you also pocket your ball in the pocket on the same shot then you continue ?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Correct.

[@arc-sd8sk]

The Lord's Game imo, and I'm not even religious!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Amen to that! You don’t need to be religious to honor the Pool Gods. :)

[@mosesng6050]

I never played One Pocket before but it’s worth trying, is it?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Definitely, especially when you get older since strategy, experience, and smarts can conquer shot making.

[@G35Jeff]

I thought the entire object ball had to be past the headstring in order to be eligible to hit after a scratch with ball in hand from the kitchen.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

There are rules variations out there, but the way we presented it is the most consistent with official rules in all pool games.

[@crondawg101]

Is it worth mentioning what happens when there are no object balls left to shoot and neither player has reached 8?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Is that possible under standard rules?

[@crondawg101]

Imagine the following sequence of events in a one-pocket game. I foul. The score is now Dr. Dave 0 Stephen -1 You proceed to pot 7 balls in your pocket. Dr. Dave 7 Stephen -1 I then pot the remaining 8 object balls in my pocket Dr. Dave 7 Stephen 7 (-1 plus the 8 I potted) The score is 7-7 and there are no more object balls on the table. It happened here kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqapY3aLf9h2hZosi=uSOguAjhlxp5pcxv&t=2360s

[@omg4life234]

@@crondawg101At the end of your inning after you pot 8 balls, you spot the number of balls you owe (you fouled once so 1 ball gets spotted) and continue shooting.

[@crondawg101]

@@omg4life234 I know. I’m asking Dr. Dave if that rule is worth mentioning or if it so rarely relevant that it is worth omitting

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@crondawg101 We cover this situation at the 10:59 point in the video.

[@brandongrablachoff261]

Oh dang Bob I forgot to spot the ball says Mr Doctor Dave. 😂😅 🎱

[@DrDaveBilliards]

How was my acting? :)

[@brandongrablachoff261]

@@DrDaveBilliards Superb and spot on! 🎱

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@brandongrablachoff261 I know I don’t deserve an Oscar nomination, but thank you. :)

[@brandongrablachoff261]

@@DrDaveBilliards Haha 😄

[@chriswelch1246]

Official rules of three cushion? (Carom)

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I don't play, nor do I have access to 3-cushion equipment. But the rules are very simple: The CB must contact three rails before contacting the second OB. The first OB can be contacted by the CB at any time during the shot.

[@anarchyseeds4406]

damn right bob!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

DAM right! :)

[@cjr3559]

Quarters for ball marking?! High rollers! 😅

[@DrDaveBilliards]

$100 bills take up a little too much room on the rails. :)

[@fullonbatshit9428]

Perhaps how to play bank pool is coming soon...hint hint.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Probably not gonna happen, but I already have lots of videos dealing with banking systems and effects under the links and at the bottom of the page here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/bank-kick/

[@Kmuggle]

Are you going to do golf?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don’t plan to, but I have info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/game/golf/

[@perfectiom3718]

CONFUSING AF but seem so fun

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. For a player new to the game, the rules can seem a bit ridiculous, but that’s are what make the game so interesting and full of strategy.

[@jacobslemmer6168]

I heard @DrDaveBilliards uses quarters instead of pennies as foul markers because his videos are so money

[@DrDaveBilliards]

DAM right! Money, baby! :)

[@lights1611]

What's an inning?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

A "turn" at the table, which continues until you miss or foul.

[@lights1611]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks! I assume sinking a ball in a neutral pocket counts as a miss?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@lights1611 Yes.

[@Paul_Scharah_ChVP]

Dr. Dave, I just really wanted to draw your attention to something here - it's not about the Rules of One Pocket per se but it is about the Rules of Push-Shots and Double-Hits. There's this really bizarre KZbin channel by the name of "Patrick Ryan" and this guy's entire channel is just videos of alleged Push-Shots and/or Double-Hits, made in top-level Snooker matches. The Rules regarding these 2 types of fouls are exactly the same for Snooker, as they are for American Pool; That's why I wanted to share this with you - I think you might get a kick out of it, since this guy is a self-proclaimed expert in this specific area of the Rules and always somehow manages to describe the supposed offences in great detail, however it seems that literally nobody agrees with him and, in fact, a top Snooker referee actually commented on one of his videos, basically calling him delusional, yet he persists. I'd just love to hear your 2 cents on the matter, assuming you have the time & interest to watch a few of his videos and read some of his desciptions! Sorry if this was too off-topic; In any case, great video! Keep it up. Edit: Here is the link to his channel, if you have a hard time finding it: www.youtube.com/@PatrickRyan147/videos

[@DrDaveBilliards]

For those who want to see accurate videos on these topics, check out these resource pages: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/foul/double-hit/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/foul/push/

[@jacobjones5269]

1. I don’t play for free.. The rest you’ll learn as we go..

[@DrDaveBilliards]

VEOP isn’t free either: drdavebilliards.com/videos/veop/ But it might be cheaper in the long run. :)

[@donniearmstrong8390]

why would you have rerack if a ball is made on the break it doesn't make sense to me

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It provides too much advantage if you pocket a ball in your pocket on the break and get to shoot after the break, where you might be able to pocket several (or 8) balls for the win. Regardless, the rules are the rules.

[@KravenBilliards]

Hey Dave! You should make a video about the rules for the game 7 ball!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I don’t think it is popular or widespread enough, and I’ve never played it.