THIN CUT SHOTS - Viking Cues Tip of the Week with Mike Roque author of Build Your Game.

Thin Cut Shots

“When making thin cut shots, aim the edge of the cue ball at the edge of the object ball.”

-Harry Crabtree

The Thin Cut Shot into corner pocket is one of the most challenging shots in pool. It’s tricky to aim, especially in poor lighting, and even harder to execute. Despite all that, there are situations when it is the right shot to take and you have to dig down deep and make it.

Aiming is the first challenge. When cutting a ball to the left, sight the shot by lining up the outside left edge of the cue ball, with the outside right edge of the object ball.

Seeing a contact point on the object ball is a common method for aiming, but if the cut is extremely thin, it may be more effective to see a relationship between the balls.

Visualize the balls coming together before you get into your stance. Whenever possible, use a center ball hit. Long thin cut shots are already tough enough without complicating them with english!

Keep your stick as level as possible, as even a touch of accidental massé will throw the cue ball off line. Keep your eyes on the relationship between the balls and focus on making a slow smooth stroke. Be still and stay down until the ball drops into the pocket!