Pool Lesson: Breaking An 8-Ball Rack Two Ways

[@jollysheldone425]

So let me get this straight! If I break this way, this ball might do something or it might not! and if I'm consistent, it might go here or it might not! "Did you see how it nearly happened" Nope! you have absolutely no clue. The odds on potting a ball on an American table are pretty high, because the pockets are like buckets and they have straight sides. After your first prediction went wrong entirely I zoned out, sorry.

[@LilChrisPoolPlayer]

Apologies that you zoned out of the point of the lesson, which is where 5 particular balls have a "tendency" to go. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tendency Tendency: a : a proneness to a particular kind of thought or action b : direction or approach toward a place, object, effect, or limit Because American tables have "bucket" pockets and straight sides, what does that have to do with how balls will react out of the rack of the break? If I had no clue, then I guess I'm just lucky that I can produce consistent results. I'm no professional, but they also produce consistent results on their breaks whether it's 8-Ball, 9-Ball, or 10-Ball. I'm guessing they have no clue either. Perhaps you can explain it better?

[@MrPauricg]

@@LilChrisPoolPlayer in your first break you say, "were going to aim for the middle of the 8 ball", then in the next style of break you say, "were no longer going to aim for the head ball, now were going to aim for the ball in the second row" , so in the first break what are you aiming for? the head ball or the 8?

[@adaption27]

@Lil'Chris , Please ignore this douche. Don't reply to them... It's what trolls eat. Some people in this world or so miserable. I learned a thing or 2 and if not I would just click on something else. Keep up the good work!! Make more vids!!

[@LilChrisPoolPlayer]

@@MrPauricg I think adaption27 was referring to the original poster of the comment.

[@MrPauricg]

@@LilChrisPoolPlayer ouch my bad, I went a bit OTT on his ass hah

[@wilsoncheng2517]

The easiest ball to drop for opening break is usually my cue ball

[@losoj30]

Lol

[@ELM777]

I see you are a man of amazing skill as well

[@RRJOfficial]

I think this doesn't happen to you so often, though, because otherwise you would be lying which is stupid.

[@Lookdownhereiam]

I believe you! lol 😂 I scratch constantly. And I’m a pretty ok player.

[@victorcoburn2791]

😂😂😂😂

[@mikeoreilly4020]

Thank you Chris. As soon as I finished watching the video, I went to our table and, using a classic break, made 2 balls on each of 3 breaks. Having watched many videos on breaking, you're the first one to actually give us an aim point in the rack.

[@richardhudak685]

I BEEN PLAYING POOL FOR 60 YEARS N YOU NEVER STOP LEARNING 👌👌

[@Twobarpsi]

With you on that!

[@veronicaphillips8310]

I've been playing for 61 years and I agree with you, Richard. I recommend Lil' Gary's lessons to all of my pool playing friends.

[@donlove3741]

Been playing since I was 14 and am 63 now. Started with snooker. Sir the first sensible comment so far! Rack , table cue... smokiness, jukebox noise, redhead in the spray painted dress all contribute to education! Keep on studying! Life's a lesson you learn it when your through!

[@ozziejim8472]

Oh come on mate.....you just need to try harder and pretty soon you won’t hear a single piece of advice, just like my teenage son.

[@dutchie1010]

very true......that being said, there is very few people who should instruct this game

[@TruongTai8]

Omg! It works, the one ball to side pocket! I have watched Shane and Jason Shaw making the one ball side pocket over and over but did bot know how they did it. Thanks, Chris.

[@HawkOnHOG]

I learned that 8-ball break 30 years ago when I read it in a Steve Mizerak book. I have always used that break ever since then. I have gotten several 8-ball breaks, most in the opposite side, with some kicked into the opposite side corner near me, and occasionally in the near side pocket. However, I have also several times gotten my spin wrong (usually because I was wearing beer goggles), and the cue ball ended up ricocheting off the table, or into the near side foot corner. It is a risky shot with disastrous consequences if done incorrectly, but man does it feel great when you do it right!!! And it gets a lot of looks from everyone at the bar...If you nail it early, you will be in your opponent's head for the rest of the night, and win the confidence game... :)

[@bradforddutton8839]

By

[@JohnSmith-fq7hj]

I pocket the 8 ball one time while at a bar playing for money I didn't know that was a win actually thought I lost glad the guy I was playing actually told me lol.

[@chase7767]

I watched this yesterday, then played pool last night and successfully pulled off both techniques on the first try. Literally did a victory lap around the place when I broke that 8-ball in. Thanks!!

[@vibegodcartel]

If they make a game where the purpose of the break is to launch the cue ball off the table, I win every time.

[@patronm9865]

Lmao for real

[@s.p.revhorner4703]

Straight, clear instructions. Easy, clear explanations. Good, useful video. Thanks!

[@connorrafferty6637]

I have been struggling with my breaks of late and this has really helped. Simple yet effective. Thanks champion!

[@robgarcia9678]

This is the best explanation of the break I have ever seen. Thanks

[@TheXxvampgoth91xx]

I started learning from you by practicing bank shots, then I looked into proper form, and now breaking. I've only been playing for a year now, but your channel is the one I always check out first when I need to learn something. Thank you for the detailed explanations, please keep it up!

[@Korninva]

One of the best presented and easy to follow pool video's I've seen. Great tips for any level pool player. Thank you, Chris!

[@davidcochran6974]

Thanks for the tips. A small recommendation for the future though; outcomes being the same, but opposite sides for lefties is apparent enough to not warrant additional repetition within the lessons. Great video Chris.

[@phycoman4561]

*Walks up to table for break* "8 ball in the corner pocket" "Wha..."

[@Cleverockz]

Have been subscribed to Lil' Chris's channel for only a few days now. My game has improved a lot so far and am looking forward in being the best I can be with the knowledge Lil' Chris is providing. Thank you so much!

[@jordanwhite9319]

I've been shooting pool and installing them for 15 years now, and I think I've lost knowledge watching just one of these videos 🤣🤣🤣

[@queenrules68]

Thank you Lil' Chris! I play pool every night and I'm really good a cut shots and bank shots (1 and 2 rail). But my breaking ability is average at best. I scratch way too often. This video will help me tremendously I really think. I'll be using the classic break and will track the trajectory of the 5 key balls you mentioned and demonstrated. I appreciate you!

[@dsauce223]

Great video. I'm a seasoned player but I still very much enjoyed the explanation of both breaks. Thanks Chris.

[@einfjordbreen2925]

Love the clear explanations Chris on what ball number your aiming for and what ball number will be going where.... Shame no one can see the ball numbers....

[@mikemcdonald4224]

Heading to the pool room after lunch. Going to give this a try. I am having a difficult time with my break. Let you know how it goes. Tks for the tips.

[@mikemcdonald4224]

Well just back from practice Chris and your advise made a difference. Still needs work but a lot better. Thanks and I will be using your site for help with my game.

[@battlefrontantics5248]

Thanks! 2 minutes of this video made my breaks 3 times as good!

[@onepunch9203]

Thank you for sharing your expertise! I began playing regularly about a year ago and am not a bad player, but haven't really improved much because I just keep repeating what I already know. Video lessons like this are an excellent way for me to learn. I can watch and rewatch these kinds of tips and then practice them later. No pressure. I'm going to concentrate on these two break techniques tonight when the gang gets together for our Tuesday night session. Thanks for sharing, Chris. I'm subscribed and look forward to more instructional vids. 🎱👍🏼

[@mr.scruffydog4961]

Excellent. I'm a decent amateur player looking to move up a notch and really appreciate your step-by-step instruction. Ignore the boneheaded trolls out there. You're good at what you do!

[@danslider4294]

Hey, Lil' Chris. This is fantastic. You actually showed me something I can practice and put to use instead of a seven rail jump shot that will never be used except for bar bets. Clearly explained and demonstrated. I subscribed and look forward to learning from your other videos.

[@maur16]

I know this was made a couple months ago but I just started playing pool and hit the 8 ball in trying to replicate the shot you were doing and it worked! Got a great reaction from everyone!

[@cgarcia4tt]

I have been using your videos as a guide. They are extremely helpful. Keep up the good work. No matter what crazy comments you receive know that there are many people who genuinely appreciate your help.

[@kevintodd2176]

Totally a big help.. Thank u. Did 10 breaks of each and while I found the "classic" was a safer, because the margin of error was higher on the "8 ball" break, I still favored the 8 ball style cuz it sunk the 8 2 times out of my 10 breaks and who doesn't enjoy that feeling? Rad vid. Short and sweet. Helped me understand breaks better. Following now, keep it up

[@eddied8851]

I've been breaking from the wrong side of the table, so that alone (right-handed, break from left side) helps a lot! Thanks, Chris! Will try the classic break & see if I keep control more often from breaks. Good stuff!!

[@my3dviews]

I honestly don't see how it matters which side that you break from. If you strike the ball the same, it doesn't matter whether you are right or left handed.

[@elbypass1901]

I’ve only been playing pool for two months and needless to say this video has helped me a lot with understanding how to break. Greatly appreciate your video brotha!

[@bobbycuesroadhouse2204]

I learned so much from this video and the eight ball run out! I had my first ACS ERO last night!!! it was awesome all thanks to you and my love of the game!!

[@veronicahawthorne3452]

Great video! Thanks so much! I’ll be applying these techniques to my break.

[@ProductDesignOnline]

Great video! Keep making them, please! :)

[@peterday1834]

These small details are what separates the professional to the average pool player and understanding these principles separates the potential pros from the forever amateurs

[@joanstorer6370]

Thank you for your video. These help us to improve our game. It's great when someone takes the time to help others how to play better. Hope every day is good for you.

[@niceguy6152]

Weekly pool player here, I have used the second break style he demonstrates for some time now and have potted the black a few times. At the very least it gets the black moving.

[@coydross8816]

This is the best explanation of the ball break I have ever seen. I am anxious to try out your ideas. Thanks.

[@gman5051]

Great stuff Lil Chris ! I hardly ever break on my home table... so this video is huge for my game , I think the classic break is for me . Thanks for the instruction !

[@joestrauss8977]

Ty for taking the time to look and evaluate this particular part of my game. I value appreciate your opinion. Ty very much.

[@timmcmullen6811]

Very helpful, have been looking at various break videos and your's is by far the most instructive!!! Thanks!!!

[@billiardmylifetop9701]

Great Lesson... I found this video helpful. Plz make video on 9 ball too...

[@briankt69]

Been learning pool the past 8 months, watching tons of KZbin vids and practicing as much as can as places open back up sense the pandemic. Come across this vid and have started practicing the break to make the 8-ball in. Joined my 1st ever league, APA, with my GF (she’s been playing 10 years). Just had our 1st match last night. Im a 3 and I got put against a 5. I won the coin flip, and on my 1st break in my 1st ever pool league game. I smoked the balls on the break and pocketed the 8-ball without scratching for the win. Lol. Game 2 I broke pocketed several balls but the cue ball jumped off the table. But I was still able to win the racket and win the match 2-0. Ty for the vids and helping this noobs game. You got a subscriber and a fan here... just wish someone would have been videoing it. Lol

[@katarainatekowhai5813]

I’m a beginner, thank you for the easy to follow instructions, I hope I get it😂

[@davidmorrow5058]

Chris, one of my big problems is reading the table, to know what my flow should be from my beginning shot to the next two shots(and so on), if you could address this in one of your future videos I would sure appreciate it!!! Your method of teaching is finally something I can understand, so thank you for that!!!

[@LilChrisPoolPlayer]

It sounds like you're talking about how to build a run out route, which deals more along the lines of strategy play. I'll eventually get to that topic when I finish with covering the basics.

[@davidmorrow5058]

@@LilChrisPoolPlayer Yes, ok, thank you!

[@MelindaGreen]

I learned to put a lot of topspin on the cue ball so that after it bounces back, it reverses and runs back into the pack, increasing the odds of moving the 8 ball.

[@user-ce2br4wn7f]

However, you generally want the cue ball to be in the center of the table after a break. The closer you are to a rail, the more difficult your run out will be.

[@MikeyD22]

Thanks for sharing this video, much appreciated! I own a 9' Diamond but tried the cut break on a 7 footer at league and it worked as exactly as you described.

[@LilChrisPoolPlayer]

My table is an 8ft which I’m able to get the consistent results. On a 9ft, I’ve gotten it to work too, I just had to cut the head ball slightly more and obviously use more power to account for the distance.

[@MikeyD22]

@@LilChrisPoolPlayer Good advice. I'll give it a try!

[@MrSegopa]

My break has improve a lot & managed to play break and finishes that I have been struggling to do...

[@jameswalton4259]

Well done. I like that eight on the break break! Win in one shot, and if not, still run out, or defense...I like that eight ball break. Perfect video break down. I don't understand why some people complain here, other than the fact that they have no clue about the game, hate, are haters that drink "hater-aide," and just keep doing your thang Lil' Chris...

[@johnlarue4922]

Great video bro ...I'm gonna practice these I'm a tap league 6 and was in need of working on my break ....I'll def try these ...thank you very much 😃

[@LilChrisPoolPlayer]

John Larue Thank you! Very much appreciated!

[@singlethreat496]

Great explanation on the tendencies of ball trajectory. The odds of making the 8- ball on the second break are about 1 in 1000. But, if you are playing these rules, it is SO worth the... shot.

[@LILP12345]

Just the introduction video got me like WOW! Good job on those bank shots.

[@MrWestsiderider]

I am going to use the 8 ball break in league play tomorrow night ! Thanks for the lesson Chris !

[@kennedydewitt3219]

one of the best videos I have seen thanks for the tip

[@Martin-Young]

This is exactly what I have been looking for! Very informative, short and sweet to the point! You break down what are the (5) possible balls will drop. Other videos does not explain that. Looking forward for a 9 ball break if possible. I will be working on this during these drills. Great video Chris! Keep up the great work!!! 😃

[@tableroll1]

Good job Chris. Your command of clearly explaining key concepts is exceptional.

[@jekpapa]

Thank you so much. Clear and concise. Subscribed.

[@BladeRunner-td8be]

Hi Chris, I've been playing that second ball 8 ball break for eons. I've always hit the second ball just like you do but with a lot more spin. My cue ball deflects pretty much as far as the power of my stroke and cue will allow As a result I get a much fuller hit on that second ball and the extreme spin I put on the cue ball essentially stops the cue ball from moving very much after contact. I do not get near as much cue ball movement as you do so my scratches are minimized but I'm sure I don't make as many 8 balls as you do either. Watching both of your break shots the cue ball heads up table on the first break shot and it heads down table on the second break shot. For me turning that cue ball loose on the break shot is a huge no no because the farther it travels after contact the more likely that if finds a pocket. I don't need to tell you what that usually means as far as my chances of winning that game if I'm playing anyone that can shoot. Side note: I am flabbergasted at how often professional players scratch on their break shot. The percentage has to be at least 15 percent or higher on average. Love your videos. Even though I know almost everything you cover in them, sometimes I forget stuff and this watching your videos is sort of very beneficial refresher pool playing course for me.

[@hdtripper1]

What English do you use for your increased spin?

[@melrio9785]

Great video Chris! I'm going to keep practicing both of these breaks. See ya tonight, Capitán! 🎱😁

[@MrShomari1]

Enjoyed watching this. The simple fact that you would allow shots to not be "perfect" shown says volumes, cuz we all out here in "tv land" watching your videos are far from perfect that's why we're watching... so to see a video where the instructor is not nailing every single shot 100% ads hope to us other players!!!

[@TammyCondren]

I’m scratching A LOT in my games & I can’t seem to lighten it up😂 I know (pretty much) what I need to change, it’s just easier said than done! Thanks Lil Chris-ur videos are very helpful👍🏼

[@ChickenBoo1989]

"did you know 8 ball breaks are predictable?" English 8 ball: Hold my beer!

[@bobsepik5139]

Great tips on 8 ball break! Bob Sepik

[@Twobarpsi]

I never knew there was a science to breaking.

[@johnholmstrom4212]

2 years later and I still come back to this video for refreshers lol maybe it's my bad memory...

[@sweetbuttergeminine4756]

I can play in real life but I play on the phone more. Never watched on YT so I don't understand the recommendation but 🤷🏽‍♀️ I love it though 🤭

[@AlsAllMetalDetecting]

8 ball for the win break has always been my favorite but today I'll work on the classic Chris. TY man. Be well, Al-Fu

[@a.k.4767]

in iraq the 15 and 1 balls should be in the center pockets thats our rules

[@66Rick66Rick]

I use your eight ball break position but try to sink the one of the two end balls in the end pockets. Half a tip toward rail (depending on what side you break from) and half to whole tip of bottom) Works well too! Never really thought about eight ball movement with this break but I am gonna start watching for it! Your regular break is exactly as I have been doing for years. Nice

[@Justin44777]

You just earned a new subscriber! thank you so much for these vids, keep them up :D

[@markwys]

Nice video. Explained the basics without getting all foggy on details that will be picked up later by a shooter who tries your methods.

[@mawage666]

I'm so going to dominate all my friends now!

[@axlemil]

Thanks for this video tutorial... no more lucky break for me.. 👍

[@4RGFootball]

Best vid so far ! Keep them coming! How about a trick shot?

[@chalieblairjr8452]

What are the best ways for people to learn is the way he just explained it awesome job👍

[@donsmith1781]

Very poised...great stuff...highly appreciated.....who needs critics..its free offered information with love...... this is for the idiots !!!

[@Lookdownhereiam]

Great video! My game already has improved from just two videos! This is crazy! Thank you so much. I can't wait to play against my dad tomorrow.

[@CrazyJoeClark429]

I will begin using this. Increasing control of table and when you break you can practice on a run out with consistency

[@kennethhowell5291]

Remind me not to play you for money!

[@ioriedwards7554]

thanks for the advise. WILL DEFINATELY HAVE TO TRY THIS. LET YOU KNOW HOW IT CAME OUT

[@BlackjackDSapolis]

Excellent video!

[@cra8zy894]

New to the channel and enjoying all the great tips and tricks 👍🏼

[@daveleininger4490]

Thanks Chris, I've tried both of these, but now see what I was doing wrong!

[@sallykasper61]

Great job, I am learning

[@SteveSchultz-t6o]

I am looking to play a more competetive game of pool instead of the old bar room game with a beer in hand,I came across your videos bye chance and have been watching the last few days. I purchased a good quality cue from Schmelke pool cues in Rice Lake Wi last weekend and I'm looking forward to practicing the shot methods you put on your videos. you explain things clearly and having the glasses showing your cue positioning on the cue ball and alignment on thetarget make a big difference for me. My favorite videos are the bank shots and 2 rail shots, those are what I struggle with the most. Hopefullly after a winter of practice I will feel confident enough to get into a pool league, stand my ground and enter more local tournaments and be successful, practice practice practice, thanks for the easily understood and practical videos.

[@fruchi90]

The sacret is constant practice

[@robohippy]

Hmm, I used to break from 1 diamond over and 2 diamonds down, and break across the lead ball. This would send the Q ball into the rail and back into the rack. Pretty much the same as you do by hitting the second ball down in the rack. Never thought about hitting the second ball with some back spin, but it does the same thing. Never got into electronic games because shooting pool was far more challenging....

[@taurus_1977]

I've used the first break method at my job on a table half the size of yours but I might have to adjust the ball position,, also it works. I want to try the second break now. Thank you

[@justinwang5744]

I'm a SL 6 in my local APA league. Playing another 6 this evening, made it 4-4 from 2-4. Then I remember Chris said doing 8 ball break when on hill. I did it and got my first APA 8 on break lol.

[@pinkdink1210]

Thanks for the video. Can’t wait to eventually win on an 8 ball break and whoever I’m playing against is going to tell me “it’s all luck.” 😂 I watched a video explaining how professionals sometimes pot the 9 on the break in 9-ball. I tried it while playing my best friend and I believe on the third break I got it. I told him, guess where I learned that from? KZbin. He’s like “it’s all luck, you just got lucky.” 😅

[@tammybadass4055]

I like the way you explain things-clear and to the point. Thank you so much! Subscribed!

[@wilsonl9397]

Thanks Chris, hope to use this knowledge against my friends now

[@federationjay]

Since I been watching your video's my game have improve a lot. Not tournament ready but I'm getting there.

[@a.afable7829]

pay no mind to the haters lil chris. just keep making your videos. I'm one of many who enjoys and picks up on your pointers. keep em coming, thanks...

[@prashantmishra5691]

You just love to hear the sound of that break. Great vid. Loved it. Subbed!

[@richardbarrett4104]

To be honest I thought it was all luck, chance. Brilliant explanation, great video, one I'll bookmark too.🤩

[@lilabell2482]

Chris I am a new player and really enjoy your channel. Honest straight forward.

[@ChrisWiley77]

My local pool league starts tonight, hopefully I'll be able to implement the information I have gotten from your channel and improve my game this season

[@davidbreakspear5915]

All pretty useful if you are playing on a decent competition table. Most times though you will end up dry because of dead rails and a slow nap. Another thing also helps is that the balls are regularly cleaned and checked for cracks and chips which affects the consistency of travel.

[@morganlove6300]

hey bro..... your videos are amazing ... i watched so many videos and nun is compare to what i jus saw ......the video u made with the bankshots an cutshots made everyone calling me a professional now ... i would recommend everyone to learn from u an only your videos can even make a beginner learn in seconds ... thank you so much for your hard work and effort u put into these videos ......

[@LilChrisPoolPlayer]

Thanks! I really appreciate that! 😊

[@morganlove6300]

@@LilChrisPoolPlayer welcome bro...

[@SonyYu]

Thank you. Great Video!

[@jackallenfort7499]

This Jollys person is a total maroon. Very nice video.

[@psairac]

I will be getting through all your pool videos today. Already saw 4. Yours are some of the best and most informative out. And you explain things really well. Thanks!