An open bridge has certain advantages in terms of viewing the cue ball, as well as negating issues with large hands and long fingers. Very interesting video.
Amazing information. Thanks! Ha! I measured both my cues and they are about 5” shorter than my chin/lip guideline. Very interesting. My golf clubs were made 2 degrees upright. And it does make a world of difference
Playing at the bottom of the pendulum as well as many other things in this video are absolutely accurate. You got yourself a new subscriber sir. Continue making videos as informative as this one!!!
I am 6' 4", flexible, lanky and just getting started playing pool at 58 years old. Cues ALWAYS seemed short, been holding them at the VERY end of the cue....NOW I know I really do need a longer cue.
I had never heard of cue extensions, nor their benefits. I am 6' 1" tall. I bought a 4 inch extension for my break cue and another for my shooting cue. What a big improvement this has made! Your videos are so well done - very clear, focused comments, illustrations and demonstrations.
This is the first intelligent information I have ever seen published on this subject. I am 6'3, size 16-36 shirt. I play with a 71in cue, which weighs 20.5oz. To get the weight down, I used a maple butt section 4 sliced into a purple heart forearm, and a 31in Jacoby Ultra shaft. I had the cue made by Jeff Prather/Bill Dominiak, who made it 64in long with an aluminum radial pin. I then made a 7in radial laminated maple extension with a G10 pin. I just wish the major manufacturers would revise their machines so they can offer longer cues.
Sweet! My first nice cue was a Prather. Still have it. Another issue is cue cases. None made for long two-piece cues. So we're stuck with 2-piece+extension just for that reason. Maybe it will change someday.
I'm 6'3 with long arms. Just ordered a butt extension for my cue. Feel like I messed up by not getting an extension for the shaft instead. After watching this. Sir, great video for tall players. I don't think the guys I shoot with understand what it's like to have nothing fit you when playing pool. I'm willing to bet this contributes to my glaring issues on a table.
I'm 6ft5, Recently bought a Cuetec Synergy with an 6 inch extension, added some weight also. Cue is now almost 23,5oz and feels much better and improved my game very much.
Very interesting and useful information. I'm 5'10" and have been playing with a 59" cue for the past 4-5 years. After watching this , I bought a 2" midcue extension, and the new 61" length is perfect. Thanks for the great content!
Did it take you awhile to adjust because I'm 5'10" and when I tried my friends 60" it felt awkward. I had tendency to get too close to the cue ball and I had to consciously correct for it which was throwing me off. If you had to adjust how long did it take you I'm concerned about this I don't want to invest in a new Q if it's going to be a constant issue thank you
Congrats on the BCA team in 2006! That's tough to win! We took 13 thru 16 in 2003 or 2004.......I'm getting too old to remember anymore. However, I did take 3rd in the Ohio VNEA Masters Singles back in 2004. Then I quit due to a female.. DUMB!! I Just got back into the game 1 year ago when I became my Moms Caregiver. Ive been putting in 5 to 7 hours a day on 4 1/8" pockets to hone in my skills. It's unreal what great info is out there now compared to when I played before, Thanks to guys like yourself. I was self taught when I placed 3rd in 04'. I had mediocre mechanic's and very limited knowledge of the game. I Wanted to say THANKS and maybe I'll run into you here this year at an event. KUDOS 👏👏👏
Taller is advantage, as in tennis. I'm 5'10, played 57 yrs, now play w 31" carbon shaft on older muecci butt. Allows me to reach shots better on larger tables, and I think it shoots more accurately
I think this might help me bring closer to a better alignment on the table also with the longer stick for my next not hurting. Because I have arthritis in my neck and I think it will help
Great video! That triangle distance example you show is excellent! This takes into account other factors than your height like chin height, wingspan, hand width, etc. I'm 5' 9.5" but my wingspan is almost 6' 2". I'm hanging onto the back of a standard cue. Mark Wison is about your height and uses a 61" cue but his stance isn't super low and he seems to be comfortable holding the rear portion of the cue from what I saw.
Outstanding video Bob. I will be using this as a reference for my taller students. I am 6'1'' and I have shot with an extension (in the back) and shoot as well as I do without it, so it might be a good idea for me. ...with one problem. When I extend the length of my cue (especially with the shaft extension) I often have a ball foul, because suddenly my cue is 4'' - 8'' longer than it has been since I was 12 years old. It might take a lot of reps to get there. Once again, very good video and as a YT creator, I appreciate the amount of work you put into making this and other videos.
Thanks, and thank you for what you do. IMO, for 6'-1", a 4" joint extension would be perfect. No on/off for stretch shots. Would take time to make a new habit. But not as long as you think and well worth it. Thanks!
@@ShortstopOnPool Funny thing is I have that 4 inch extension in my bag and it’s been there for 15 years without me using it - so I will give it a shot.
Im 5'10" and and frequently at the butt end of the stick. I tried my friends 60-inch Q. I've been playing with a 58 inch for 25 years. I found myself doing the same thing getting too close to the cue ball or feeling awkward due to the extra length. How long did the adjustment take to not have those issues in queuing
Very informative, you cue length might just be the problem in your game. My personal cue doesn't even reach my chin and I always go low when playing. Guess I have to either buy a longer cue or learn to raise my head above my cue
Another great video. Thank you for this one. Another 6'5" player here, and I have had all of those issues you spoke about. I am in the process of having an extension made. Will let you know how it turns out.
Maybe Strickland was on to something way back when.?. I'm 6 '2, play with std length cue. 30 yrs now. Tried extension, the hit and feedback, to me were positive , even confidence inspiring on longer shots. More action on whitey as well, however, like yourself ,doesn't feel good on hand. Center extension could be the answer..Thank you for sharing, please keep the content coming, it's appreciated.
Very good video. I agree 100%. I am 6' tall and play with a 4" extension between the shaft and butt. It get's the cue right in that spot below the lower lip. Also quick note, for me this works much better than having an extension on the back of the butt which dramatically changes the balance point, is a lot more reasonable. When I play without the extension there's a clear and negative difference in my comfort level and I make fewer balls.
Great information sir. I've been playing since 2005 and never knew a cue ball weighed 6 oz. I also gravitated toward 18 oz cues pretty much the whole time. I tried everything from 15 oz to 22 oz and 18 seemed to be the "sweet spot" for me. My favorite number is 3. There are so many amazing things that are accomplished by the number three in mathematics and geometry. This also applies here to pool cues. An 18 oz cue is 3 times the weight of the cue ball and perhaps THAT is why I've always shot the best with an 18 oz cue. I found this video because my wife is Filipino and is 4'11". The standard 58" cues are just too long and heavy and keep making her top the cue ball. I used your measuring suggestions and it's 52" to the spot between her mouth and chin. So I just ordered her an 18 oz 52" cue online =] Now I need to look at getting a joint extension for MY cue. I'm 6'2" and noticed MANY of the difficulties you explained that come from being tall. I play with a Meucchi Pro Series cue, but it's 58" long. I measured and should be playing with a cue length of 65" (Which aligns correctly with your math. You're 6'5", 3 inches taller and you need a 68" cue. Me at 6'2", 3 inches shorter would be 3 inches off the cue making it 65"). Thanks again for the insightful information. Great great great video.
Great video! I'm not super tall (6 ft), but i have long arms. Mid-joint extensions are a revelation! I had a 2" one made for me years ago. A 60" cue fits me so well. I could probably go up an inch or two, but playing with a standard 58" would be so hard for me now.
Absolutely excellent info and well presented. I am 6' 2 and have been away from three cushion billiards, (which is my game), for some 20 years and it is like I have forgotten a lot about the essentials of the technic required. I will try an extension as I seem to have been creeping to near to the ball and with my hand to close. I make other errors like gripping with my right arm to much forward on the cue so compromising the Triangle you display. One thing that I have been thinking about and where I would like to here your thoughts is why Snooker Players almost always play with an open bridge whereas players in other disciplines most often use a closed bridge.
First, since making this video I now support butt end extensions, not joint extensions. Will soon make a video about why. Second, snooker balls are smaller, a closed bridge often blocks your view of the cue ball. Also, snooker instruction is sort of 'stuck-in-the-past'. Very reluctant to adapt to modern technology and understanding. IMO, snooker cues are too short, but they don't want to change to two-piece cues because of tradition maybe?
Excellent video as I’m 6’4” and couldn’t figure out why I keep dropping my elbow slightly. I took a video and noticed I’m going forward a couple inches when I follow through past my bottom pendulum location. I was trying to grip the wrap because being half on and half off of it was aggravating the piss out of me. A 4” extension seems to have helped and now I have to explore to find what works best. Thanks again for the very informative video!
Excellent demonstration. I am not very tall. But at 6 feet height, I am not able to play comfortable with 58" cue. And now I know why. Thanks for the brilliant explanation.
I'm 6'5" as well. Thank you for this video. Extremely well done and informative. Only bad thing is that a cue as long as I need is too big for the room with my pool table lol. Thanks again!
Bob, Howdy; Well, done. You're good with your research and sell it well. Being not as tall as yourself but an inch or so above 6 feet and have been at this game since the early 60's and all the time with a 58 or 59 inch cue. Since '69 I haven't been able to fully straighten my Left elbow (I'm a Righty), so I shoot close to my work so to speak. Being a bit older then yourself I stand a wee bit taller when shooting as well. But the shorter reach with the Left arm has kept me comfortable with the "Standard" length cues. All a 'Personal' kinda thing, eh?
Yes, a personal thing. If you were 25 years old I would push you to change. But you know from experience what you're doing and why. If it works, keep working it. Have fun!
5'11" with 6'3" wingspan. This answered so many questions I've been having! The bit about the physics of longer arms and playing at the bottom of the pendulum is an aha moment. I'm going to shorten my bridge and grip a little past 90°, it is going to help a lot I've been struggling with miscue or missing the intended part of the cue ball. I can fit my triangle on a 58" cue but my grip hand is near the end of cue.
That is fascinating. Actually, I started playing pool again after a 15-year break in 2019 and found sticking my extension on the end made my stroke smoother. However, I thought it was a crutch so shortened my bridge but made one concession and started playing with 30” shafts. The problem with an always short bridge is the stroke can get stabby. Recently, to smoothen out my stroke, I started lengthening my bridge again (still only around 8 inches) but on power shots I have the undulating stroke you refer to and my precision goes off. Also, I have a large bend in my left arm which does annoy my shoulder. I have been experimenting with my power draw. I draw well if using a short bridge but on long shots I have to hit with too much force. I am 190 cm tall so maybe I need to reconsider lengthening my cue again. Based on what you have shown, it is the lack of space to complete my stroke which is impacting my bigger shots. In terms of sourcing a forward extension, for a Mezz wavy user, do you have any suggestions? I did find a 5" X5 one but that does not seem to come in Wavy joint. An alternative is to do what my tall friend in Singapore did and stick a 4" extender on the back of his Mezz. As I took all the weights out the back of my Mezz when I bought it, the extra 58 grams would basically take it back to its original weight. Any help appreciated, Bob.
Good content bro, well drawn out and straightforward. You definitely gave me a few ideas I hadn’t considered. I’m a short player, but mechanics require constant maintenance. Keep it up!
Great info! I'm 76" tall and have always played with a standard length cue. I find that my hands are all over that distance and until now, never carefully considered the effects it may have on stroke/contact accuracy. Time to take out some measuring devices for myself! Thanks.
Great video, love your content. ❤ so if I unterstand you correctly, I wouldn’t need an extension if I am willing to grip my cue more at the end of the butt, if it fits my triangle (with a 7-10 inch bringe?) I am asking because I always use cues with not wrap and I am 6foot 3 with rather long legs and this shorter arms and upper body.
Technically, yes. Look at snooker players. They all use the same "short" cue and grip it right at the back. But you see a lot of bridge arms that are bent. Anything works with enough practice. But I think a nearly straight bridge arm for your shot triangle get the grip hand where it should be. If thats at the back end, then you have no room for adjustment.
Bob, great content!. So I've been playing for 30+ years and at a very high level for over a decade. I've tried both mid-cue and butt end extensions. Did not like the feel as it threw off the balance from what "I'm" used to. Not saying the new balance was bad/wrong but felt awkward to me. Also felt awkwardness with gauging my distance to the cue ball. Sometimes felt too close to the que ball. It was definitely throwing me off. Therefore i decided to have a 60" cue built @ 19 oz. (30"/30" split). I used the formula on your video.👍. Im 5'10". My long winded question to you Bob is will the awkwardness of the longer stick go away in time? Hope to hear your opinion on this.
10:00 Back hand a bit past 90 degrees. Good point. This should help with miscues scooping up the cue ball. Also, having my back hand a couple of inches too far forward robbed me of a lot of power on draw shots.
I am 6'2'' but I have long arms. I rarely need to use a rest on a 6 foot table. But I play with a standard length cue. I do not like longer cues as they are unwieldy. But I do bend my left arm to compensate.
I understand. Bending your left arm works as long as you are sure your stroking arm is at 90 degrees. But it puts your face too close to the cue ball. Though I am not sure of the negative/positive aspects of that. Its something I want to research at some point. Too busy now.
Greetings; Great video Bob. I am 6'6"...used to be 6'7". At near 70, my back disks are compressing. This video talks about several things I have been thinking about. And when I discuss these issues with short players, they are NO help. I have been kicking around buying your book. Well, this video has sold it. I hope you make the next video you spoke of. Now, if you would be so kind, where can I get a custom mid cue extension??? I have a predator cue. Thanks again for the great video. Dr. Tim.
Awesome video for us tall pool players! Every question of mine that popped up during the video you answered in the next minute or so :) I was just wondering, how much of an effect does your extention between the shaft and butt of the cue have on deflection? Thank you
I'm 6'3"/300, and my go -to cue weight is 17 to 18 oz, with an 11.75 tip. I'm lucky to find anything decent under 19 oz. Adding length adds more weight than I am willing to work with. This is good information, but not for everyone (me).
Fantastic video. Really great stuff (also the aiming video; wow). This one has the potential to 1) really ruffle some feathers for instructors & shooters set in their ways and 2) to launch a gold rush in the custom joint extension market. ;) Any idea where I could get a 3.7 inch joint extension for a Mezz Wavy joint? lol
Thank you for this video, you could make a great playlist for tall players, I haven't seen many videos on this topic. Do you know if the pros also use long cues on bar tables?
I'm the same height as you. I almost always use an open bridge - I've just never been able to adjust to a closed bridge. Now it makes perfect sense why. I use a 62" cue, and have been wanting to move up to something in the 68-70" range, but I've been lazy about it. This video should get me to make that happen. My cue is a standard 58" cue with a 4" extension. I intend to switch that out to a 10 or 12" extension - at the butt end. I know - what about the wrap? Well I don't have a wrap. I prefer a plain wood cue, so that's not an issue for me. BTW: the music is totally unnecessary. I just want to hear your voice.
hey bob, thanks for the vid- this is a fine resource. one question: in your conclusion, you say "mass behind grip hand benefits smoothness and control"- I must've missed where you covered that elsewhere in the vid, why tho? earlier in the vid, you mention that how much length is behind the grip hand is a matter of personal preference. thanks again.
More time to accelerate the cue wouldn't depend on the length of the cue... that would depend on the length of the bridge, which is totally separate to the size of the overall cue of course.
I would love to but then I wouldn't know how to stand at any other pool table. So like all things, I am a tall person stuck in a normal height world. Don't get me started on public restroom toilets! LOL
IMO, a one inch difference is in your head. You easily can adjust your grip one inch. My advice is to think about it and make that decision while sitting comfortably in a chair. Really own it. Then next time you are at a pool table remember you own it.
@17:39 I have 5/16” x 18” threaded joint (Valhalla cue stick - Valhalla VA120 (100 Series)) and I want an 8 inch extension. Where would I get one? or Where did you get yours?
Cue height should be 1cm or 2cm lower than the nose when cue is on standing position or at rest. Longer than this you will not improve your game to a PRO level or if at all will take you so much time, like months or years. On the contrary you will improve your game in just a matter of weeks with the right length of cue. There is a very lengthy explanation as to why that should be your cue length. But let not talk about that anymore. You can reduce your cue length either at the BUTT or on the SHAFT, Im talking about cheap cues like $50 or less, dont do this to expensive cues.
Hi Bob. Thanks for sharing this info. I am also 6'5" tall. I play with a standard 58" cue and have a 6" extension. What brand is the extension piece that you use?
I used to use a 6" extension by Apex. Then I used TWO 4" extensions by McDermott. Then I had a cue maker construct an 8" extension that matches my cue. Loving this one.
Hi Bob, thanks so much for the video! I’m primarily a 3 cushion carom player and am 6’2”. I find the 55” I play with to be exceptionally short for most shots. I’m curious about what factors you think might not make this advice applicable to carom players. Is it primarily that the commonly applied bridge lengths may differ between carom and pool? Thanks again!
Its not. Stability and mechanics suffer. Those are more important than reaching over the table once in a while. Look at Jose Parica - one of the best to ever play and very short.
I am 6'2" and play with a regular sized OB cue. I grip the butt at the very end, and do have to elbow my bridge arm on some shots...I notice it the most when breaking. (I also play the game left handed even though I am right handed, but that's a different story.) It has taken many years but my game has improved naturally somewhat, but I wonder if an extension is in order.
also how do you feel about the 50/50 rule where shaft and butt should be exact same length? personally I think a happy medium for me would be 31" shaft with my existing 29" butt.
I suggest, if you are video maker, please add another world wide measurements so all of us can understand and follow the video that we like. Or at least put both of them. Thanks
There are no cues made for very tall players. Some custom makers will go up to 61 or 62". So buy the cue you like most and then a quality joint extension is my advice. Besides, cases are made for standard length cues.
Wait.. Question. If Force=Mass x Acceleration, how is more acceleration with less mass more effective than more mass with less acceleration? For example 20oz cue stroking 10mph vs 10oz cue stroking 20mph. 10x20=200 and 20x10=200 / MxA Is the same as AxM. They both equal the same amount of F. Please explain this
Your math is correct. Whats missing is its easier to accelerate the cue more, and with more accuracy, with a lighter cue. All within reason, of course. You couldn't get a 2 ounce cue going fast enough - LOL. And the strength and lever (arm) length of the player factors in also.
@@ShortstopOnPool Ohhh I see. So it’s easier to accelerate the cue more and with more accuracy with a lighter cue than it is to accelerate a heavier cue with the same amount of action, accuracy, and speed control
Good info. BUT, my arms, according to the tailor does a suit, my arms are 1" longer than normal. At 6'4", would i be 6'6", 2x1", OR just 6'5". The inch just may not matter so I'll just see what I can find at 68 or 69 in.?
Put a tape measure along a table. Now make a pool stance over the tape measure. Place your bridge hand such that the opening where the cue stick first touches your fingers is at zero. Make sure your grip arm is at 90 degrees to the cuestick. You can have a friend help or record video on your phone to check. Measure to the knuckle of your longest finger on your grip hand. Now the math gets fuzzy. You should add 8 or 9 inches of bridge length, plus 5-6 inches of cue stick extending behind your grip hand. Those three numbers should give you a good idea of your optimal cue length. It won't be a specific number but a range of 2-3 inches from longest to shortest optimal.
Sir If i buy a production shaft extension like from the brand Balance Rite. they say that their extension not being custom made for one specific cue may cause your cue to not roll straight when using their shaft extension. Is it correct that such ( not rolling straight ) WILL NOT affect aiming and stroke accuracy since such is not due to a warped shaft or butt but rather the shaft extension though usable is not a perfect fit. Thank you
I'm 5'3 5foot3inshes tall I use a 57 length cue that is a 2 peace that weighs 19.5 what are better options for me if I wanna get better at my trick shots
A couple of good points, but also many inaccuracies. 1. There were no 2 piece cues in the 1800s, those came mich later 2. Total cue length was 57" until the 1960s at least, many cues made by Balabushka for example are 57. 3. There is no way the average player height was 6ft in the 1980s, it was less. And are you referring to ww? US? It varies a lot country to country. 4. F = ma does NOT mean a lighter cue produces more force. That's a gross misrepresentation. Energy transfer is also ignored, with a carbon cue transmitting more of the force to the cb.
1. Yes there were. This article claims 1829. quedos.com.au/history-of-the-pool-cue/#:~:text=A%20few%20more%20years%20later,the%20middle%20of%20the%20stick. 2. 57" is correct, but many were 58". 3. I didn't say that. Worldwide average (not just pool players) was a RANGE from 5'-9" to 6'-0". 4. Again, I didn't say that. The point was that a lighter cue is easier to accelerate and with more control, which negates the benefit of a heavy cue in producing force. Also, this video had nothing to do with wood versus carbon, just keeping it simple and focused only on length for now.
To clarify further for those interested: 1)1828-1833, Thurston’s sells jointed cues 1860, metal screw introduced 1880, German catalog with over 160 different 1 & 2 piece cues BCA article also states the 1829 date, bca-pool.com/page/39 2) 1960 birth year, height from 175cm (5’-9”) to 182cm (6’-0”) ourworldindata.org/human-height 3) Dr. Dave Alciatore, “increases in cue weight don’t have as large of a benefit as increases in cue speed”, billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/weight/
Every pool player should watch this.
An open bridge has certain advantages in terms of viewing the cue ball, as well as negating issues with large hands and long fingers. Very interesting video.
Amazing information. Thanks! Ha! I measured both my cues and they are about 5” shorter than my chin/lip guideline. Very interesting. My golf clubs were made 2 degrees upright. And it does make a world of difference
Playing at the bottom of the pendulum as well as many other things in this video are absolutely accurate. You got yourself a new subscriber sir. Continue making videos as informative as this one!!!
I am 6' 4", flexible, lanky and just getting started playing pool at 58 years old. Cues ALWAYS seemed short, been holding them at the VERY end of the cue....NOW I know I really do need a longer cue.
I had never heard of cue extensions, nor their benefits. I am 6' 1" tall. I bought a 4 inch extension for my break cue and another for my shooting cue. What a big improvement this has made! Your videos are so well done - very clear, focused comments, illustrations and demonstrations.
Great information, i find your videos always well made, clear, and obviously well researched.
This is the first intelligent information I have ever seen published on this subject. I am 6'3, size 16-36 shirt. I play with a 71in cue, which weighs 20.5oz. To get the weight down, I used a maple butt section 4 sliced into a purple heart forearm, and a 31in Jacoby Ultra shaft. I had the cue made by Jeff Prather/Bill Dominiak, who made it 64in long with an aluminum radial pin. I then made a 7in radial laminated maple extension with a G10 pin. I just wish the major manufacturers would revise their machines so they can offer longer cues.
Sweet! My first nice cue was a Prather. Still have it. Another issue is cue cases. None made for long two-piece cues. So we're stuck with 2-piece+extension just for that reason. Maybe it will change someday.
I'm 6'3 with long arms. Just ordered a butt extension for my cue. Feel like I messed up by not getting an extension for the shaft instead. After watching this. Sir, great video for tall players. I don't think the guys I shoot with understand what it's like to have nothing fit you when playing pool. I'm willing to bet this contributes to my glaring issues on a table.
Absolute top quality! You've given me some great ideas to play with. Extremely grateful for what you do.
This is by far the best video on equipment setup. Excellent!
Another professionally done video. Well done!
solid info sir. Thank you. Good luck with your channel.
I'm 6ft5, Recently bought a Cuetec Synergy with an 6 inch extension, added some weight also. Cue is now almost 23,5oz and feels much better and improved my game very much.
Very interesting and useful information. I'm 5'10" and have been playing with a 59" cue for the past 4-5 years. After watching this , I bought a 2" midcue extension, and the new 61" length is perfect. Thanks for the great content!
Did it take you awhile to adjust because I'm 5'10" and when I tried my friends 60" it felt awkward. I had tendency to get too close to the cue ball and I had to consciously correct for it which was throwing me off. If you had to adjust how long did it take you I'm concerned about this I don't want to invest in a new Q if it's going to be a constant issue thank you
Congrats on the BCA team in 2006! That's tough to win! We took 13 thru 16 in 2003 or 2004.......I'm getting too old to remember anymore. However, I did take 3rd in the Ohio VNEA Masters Singles back in 2004. Then I quit due to a female.. DUMB!! I Just got back into the game 1 year ago when I became my Moms Caregiver. Ive been putting in 5 to 7 hours a day on 4 1/8" pockets to hone in my skills. It's unreal what great info is out there now compared to when I played before, Thanks to guys like yourself. I was self taught when I placed 3rd in 04'. I had mediocre mechanic's and very limited knowledge of the game. I Wanted to say THANKS and maybe I'll run into you here this year at an event. KUDOS 👏👏👏
Taller is advantage, as in tennis. I'm 5'10, played 57 yrs, now play w 31" carbon shaft on older muecci butt. Allows me to reach shots better on larger tables, and I think it shoots more accurately
Great video. The cue market could do better fitting players by wingspan (like golf clubs).
I think this might help me bring closer to a better alignment on the table also with the longer stick for my next not hurting. Because I have arthritis in my neck and I think it will help
Great video! That triangle distance example you show is excellent! This takes into account other factors than your height like chin height, wingspan, hand width, etc. I'm 5' 9.5" but my wingspan is almost 6' 2". I'm hanging onto the back of a standard cue.
Mark Wison is about your height and uses a 61" cue but his stance isn't super low and he seems to be comfortable holding the rear portion of the cue from what I saw.
Outstanding video Bob. I will be using this as a reference for my taller students. I am 6'1'' and I have shot with an extension (in the back) and shoot as well as I do without it, so it might be a good idea for me. ...with one problem. When I extend the length of my cue (especially with the shaft extension) I often have a ball foul, because suddenly my cue is 4'' - 8'' longer than it has been since I was 12 years old. It might take a lot of reps to get there. Once again, very good video and as a YT creator, I appreciate the amount of work you put into making this and other videos.
Thanks, and thank you for what you do. IMO, for 6'-1", a 4" joint extension would be perfect. No on/off for stretch shots. Would take time to make a new habit. But not as long as you think and well worth it. Thanks!
@@ShortstopOnPool Funny thing is I have that 4 inch extension in my bag and it’s been there for 15 years without me using it - so I will give it a shot.
Im 5'10" and and frequently at the butt end of the stick. I tried my friends 60-inch Q. I've been playing with a 58 inch for 25 years. I found myself doing the same thing getting too close to the cue ball or feeling awkward due to the extra length. How long did the adjustment take to not have those issues in queuing
Very informative, you cue length might just be the problem in your game.
My personal cue doesn't even reach my chin and I always go low when playing. Guess I have to either buy a longer cue or learn to raise my head above my cue
Another great video. Thank you for this one. Another 6'5" player here, and I have had all of those issues you spoke about. I am in the process of having an extension made. Will let you know how it turns out.
well done video, it answered a lot of questions and all made sense Thank You!
Tall player here . Great stuff!
Maybe Strickland was on to something way back when.?. I'm 6 '2, play with std length cue. 30 yrs now. Tried extension, the hit and feedback, to me were positive , even confidence inspiring on longer shots. More action on whitey as well, however, like yourself ,doesn't feel good on hand. Center extension could be the answer..Thank you for sharing, please keep the content coming, it's appreciated.
Very good video. I agree 100%. I am 6' tall and play with a 4" extension between the shaft and butt. It get's the cue right in that spot below the lower lip. Also quick note, for me this works much better than having an extension on the back of the butt which dramatically changes the balance point, is a lot more reasonable. When I play without the extension there's a clear and negative difference in my comfort level and I make fewer balls.
Great information sir. I've been playing since 2005 and never knew a cue ball weighed 6 oz. I also gravitated toward 18 oz cues pretty much the whole time. I tried everything from 15 oz to 22 oz and 18 seemed to be the "sweet spot" for me. My favorite number is 3. There are so many amazing things that are accomplished by the number three in mathematics and geometry. This also applies here to pool cues. An 18 oz cue is 3 times the weight of the cue ball and perhaps THAT is why I've always shot the best with an 18 oz cue. I found this video because my wife is Filipino and is 4'11". The standard 58" cues are just too long and heavy and keep making her top the cue ball. I used your measuring suggestions and it's 52" to the spot between her mouth and chin. So I just ordered her an 18 oz 52" cue online =] Now I need to look at getting a joint extension for MY cue. I'm 6'2" and noticed MANY of the difficulties you explained that come from being tall. I play with a Meucchi Pro Series cue, but it's 58" long. I measured and should be playing with a cue length of 65" (Which aligns correctly with your math. You're 6'5", 3 inches taller and you need a 68" cue. Me at 6'2", 3 inches shorter would be 3 inches off the cue making it 65"). Thanks again for the insightful information. Great great great video.
Omfg this video helped out my timing so much
Great video! I'm not super tall (6 ft), but i have long arms. Mid-joint extensions are a revelation! I had a 2" one made for me years ago. A 60" cue fits me so well. I could probably go up an inch or two, but playing with a standard 58" would be so hard for me now.
Absolutely excellent info and well presented. I am 6' 2 and have been away from three cushion billiards, (which is my game), for some 20 years and it is like I have forgotten a lot about the essentials of the technic required. I will try an extension as I seem to have been creeping to near to the ball and with my hand to close. I make other errors like gripping with my right arm to much forward on the cue so compromising the Triangle you display.
One thing that I have been thinking about and where I would like to here your thoughts is why Snooker Players almost always play with an open bridge whereas players in other disciplines most often use a closed bridge.
First, since making this video I now support butt end extensions, not joint extensions. Will soon make a video about why.
Second, snooker balls are smaller, a closed bridge often blocks your view of the cue ball. Also, snooker instruction is sort of 'stuck-in-the-past'. Very reluctant to adapt to modern technology and understanding. IMO, snooker cues are too short, but they don't want to change to two-piece cues because of tradition maybe?
Bob thank you for this education on cue length for players
Such a well done video man, bravo
Excellent video as I’m 6’4” and couldn’t figure out why I keep dropping my elbow slightly. I took a video and noticed I’m going forward a couple inches when I follow through past my bottom pendulum location. I was trying to grip the wrap because being half on and half off of it was aggravating the piss out of me. A 4” extension seems to have helped and now I have to explore to find what works best. Thanks again for the very informative video!
Excellent demonstration. I am not very tall. But at 6 feet height, I am not able to play comfortable with 58" cue. And now I know why. Thanks for the brilliant explanation.
So glad that helped!
really.....another masterpiece ! another great video
I'm 6'5" as well. Thank you for this video. Extremely well done and informative. Only bad thing is that a cue as long as I need is too big for the room with my pool table lol. Thanks again!
That is a problem! Hard to find a room in a typical house unless you build it that way. Ha Ha
Bob, Howdy; Well, done. You're good with your research and sell it well. Being not as tall as yourself but an inch or so above 6 feet
and have been at this game since the early 60's and all the time with a 58 or 59 inch cue. Since '69 I haven't been able to fully straighten
my Left elbow (I'm a Righty), so I shoot close to my work so to speak. Being a bit older then yourself I stand a wee bit taller when shooting
as well. But the shorter reach with the Left arm has kept me comfortable with the "Standard" length cues. All a 'Personal' kinda thing, eh?
Yes, a personal thing. If you were 25 years old I would push you to change. But you know from experience what you're doing and why. If it works, keep working it. Have fun!
5'11" with 6'3" wingspan. This answered so many questions I've been having! The bit about the physics of longer arms and playing at the bottom of the pendulum is an aha moment. I'm going to shorten my bridge and grip a little past 90°, it is going to help a lot I've been struggling with miscue or missing the intended part of the cue ball. I can fit my triangle on a 58" cue but my grip hand is near the end of cue.
That is fascinating. Actually, I started playing pool again after a 15-year break in 2019 and found sticking my extension on the end made my stroke smoother.
However, I thought it was a crutch so shortened my bridge but made one concession and started playing with 30” shafts. The problem with an always short bridge is the stroke can get stabby. Recently, to smoothen out my stroke, I started lengthening my bridge again (still only around 8 inches) but on power shots I have the undulating stroke you refer to and my precision goes off. Also, I have a large bend in my left arm which does annoy my shoulder.
I have been experimenting with my power draw. I draw well if using a short bridge but on long shots I have to hit with too much force. I am 190 cm tall so maybe I need to reconsider lengthening my cue again. Based on what you have shown, it is the lack of space to complete my stroke which is impacting my bigger shots.
In terms of sourcing a forward extension, for a Mezz wavy user, do you have any suggestions? I did find a 5" X5 one but that does not seem to come in Wavy joint. An alternative is to do what my tall friend in Singapore did and stick a 4" extender on the back of his Mezz. As I took all the weights out the back of my Mezz when I bought it, the extra 58 grams would basically take it back to its original weight. Any help appreciated, Bob.
Great history lesson cousin!
Good content bro, well drawn out and straightforward. You definitely gave me a few ideas I hadn’t considered.
I’m a short player, but mechanics require constant maintenance.
Keep it up!
Thanks. Exactly the video I needed!
I assume playing without shoes at the end of the video was to help bring the table up to you.
Nah. Its just comfier when I play at home. Lol
Great video man, thanks.
Great info! I'm 76" tall and have always played with a standard length cue. I find that my hands are all over that distance and until now, never carefully considered the effects it may have on stroke/contact accuracy. Time to take out some measuring devices for myself! Thanks.
Great video. I almost always use a joint extension , unless it interferes with the wall.
Two tables at my pool hall with that issue. So I bring my 58" cue if I'm perpendicular and up against the wall! Lol
Very intresting video, thank you from Italy. 👍
Great video, love your content. ❤ so if I unterstand you correctly, I wouldn’t need an extension if I am willing to grip my cue more at the end of the butt, if it fits my triangle (with a 7-10 inch bringe?) I am asking because I always use cues with not wrap and I am 6foot 3 with rather long legs and this shorter arms and upper body.
Technically, yes. Look at snooker players. They all use the same "short" cue and grip it right at the back. But you see a lot of bridge arms that are bent. Anything works with enough practice. But I think a nearly straight bridge arm for your shot triangle get the grip hand where it should be. If thats at the back end, then you have no room for adjustment.
Very good stuff.
13:53 "Playing at the bottom of the pendulum" I like it!
Great video sir
Bob, great content!. So I've been playing for 30+ years and at a very high level for over a decade. I've tried both mid-cue and butt end extensions. Did not like the feel as it threw off the balance from what "I'm" used to. Not saying the new balance was bad/wrong but felt awkward to me. Also felt awkwardness with gauging my distance to the cue ball. Sometimes felt too close to the que ball. It was definitely throwing me off. Therefore i decided to have a 60" cue built @ 19 oz. (30"/30" split). I used the formula on your video.👍. Im 5'10". My long winded question to you Bob is will the awkwardness of the longer stick go away in time? Hope to hear your opinion on this.
It generally takes no longer than two weeks for something new to feel "normal".
10:00 Back hand a bit past 90 degrees. Good point. This should help with miscues scooping up the cue ball. Also, having my back hand a couple of inches too far forward robbed me of a lot of power on draw shots.
I am 6'2'' but I have long arms. I rarely need to use a rest on a 6 foot table. But I play with a standard length cue.
I do not like longer cues as they are unwieldy. But I do bend my left arm to compensate.
I understand. Bending your left arm works as long as you are sure your stroking arm is at 90 degrees. But it puts your face too close to the cue ball. Though I am not sure of the negative/positive aspects of that. Its something I want to research at some point. Too busy now.
@@ShortstopOnPool Thanks. I will look into that.
Greetings; Great video Bob. I am 6'6"...used to be 6'7". At near 70, my back disks are compressing. This video talks about several things I have been thinking about. And when I discuss these issues with short players, they are NO help. I have been kicking around buying your book. Well, this video has sold it. I hope you make the next video you spoke of. Now, if you would be so kind, where can I get a custom mid cue extension??? I have a predator cue. Thanks again for the great video. Dr. Tim.
Just search out a local custom cue maker. Will be easy for them to match your cue and exact length you need.
Awesome video for us tall pool players! Every question of mine that popped up during the video you answered in the next minute or so :) I was just wondering, how much of an effect does your extention between the shaft and butt of the cue have on deflection? Thank you
I'm 6'3"/300, and my go -to cue weight is 17 to 18 oz, with an 11.75 tip. I'm lucky to find anything decent under 19 oz. Adding length adds more weight than I am willing to work with. This is good information, but not for everyone (me).
Fantastic video. Really great stuff (also the aiming video; wow). This one has the potential to 1) really ruffle some feathers for instructors & shooters set in their ways and 2) to launch a gold rush in the custom joint extension market. ;) Any idea where I could get a 3.7 inch joint extension for a Mezz Wavy joint? lol
Several companies make stock 4", not sure about the joint. Search Seyberts or PoolDawg. You may have to have a cue maker make a custom one.
Great video!
Very well done please keep it up 20:11
I play with Chisholm crazy seeing a UA-cam video with him in it lol
Thank you for this video, you could make a great playlist for tall players, I haven't seen many videos on this topic. Do you know if the pros also use long cues on bar tables?
Found a video of earl here with the long cue in a bar table ua-cam.com/video/IY5N2foxMtE/v-deo.html
Cue length is determined by height/arm length, not table size.
I'm the same height as you. I almost always use an open bridge - I've just never been able to adjust to a closed bridge. Now it makes perfect sense why. I use a 62" cue, and have been wanting to move up to something in the 68-70" range, but I've been lazy about it. This video should get me to make that happen.
My cue is a standard 58" cue with a 4" extension. I intend to switch that out to a 10 or 12" extension - at the butt end. I know - what about the wrap? Well I don't have a wrap. I prefer a plain wood cue, so that's not an issue for me.
BTW: the music is totally unnecessary. I just want to hear your voice.
Thanks for the feedback. Still learning to make videos better. Will look into music/no music. Good luck with the extension!
If you want to see an excellent example of the choking of a stroke by holding the que in the "old" position, watch Mike Sigel.
Excellent video.
hey bob, thanks for the vid- this is a fine resource. one question: in your conclusion, you say "mass behind grip hand benefits smoothness and control"- I must've missed where you covered that elsewhere in the vid, why tho? earlier in the vid, you mention that how much length is behind the grip hand is a matter of personal preference. thanks again.
Pool cue extensions toss off the balance of a cue. Need a longer cue? Have one custom-made for you and your game will benefit.
"Balance" is an antiquated concept, not critical. Even so, I explain in video how the balance of my cue is still OK.
More time to accelerate the cue wouldn't depend on the length of the cue... that would depend on the length of the bridge, which is totally separate to the size of the overall cue of course.
Any thoughts on adjusting the pool table height?
I would love to but then I wouldn't know how to stand at any other pool table. So like all things, I am a tall person stuck in a normal height world. Don't get me started on public restroom toilets! LOL
I have a 30” shaft and I think it’s throwing me off instead of a 29” shaft and I feel that’s crazy to say
IMO, a one inch difference is in your head. You easily can adjust your grip one inch. My advice is to think about it and make that decision while sitting comfortably in a chair. Really own it. Then next time you are at a pool table remember you own it.
I use a jump cue for playing
@17:39 I have 5/16” x 18” threaded joint (Valhalla cue stick - Valhalla VA120 (100 Series)) and I want an 8 inch extension. Where would I get one? or Where did you get yours?
Local cuemaker custom made it to match diameter of my butt and shaft.
I’m 6ft and shoot with a 60 inch with an even split. I feel if a shaft goes above that, it becomes to whippy.
Noone does. Thus - extensions.
Cue height should be 1cm or 2cm lower than the nose when cue is on standing position or at rest.
Longer than this you will not improve your game to a PRO level or if at all will take you so much time, like months or years. On the contrary you will improve your game in just a matter of weeks with the right length of cue.
There is a very lengthy explanation as to why that should be your cue length. But let not talk about that anymore.
You can reduce your cue length either at the BUTT or on the SHAFT, Im talking about cheap cues like $50 or less, dont do this to expensive cues.
Hi Bob. Thanks for sharing this info. I am also 6'5" tall. I play with a standard 58" cue and have a 6" extension. What brand is the extension piece that you use?
I used to use a 6" extension by Apex. Then I used TWO 4" extensions by McDermott. Then I had a cue maker construct an 8" extension that matches my cue. Loving this one.
Thanks Bob. I’ve begun checking around. I’d like to try a 68” cue and see how that works. Appreciate the quick reply.
Hi Bob, thanks so much for the video! I’m primarily a 3 cushion carom player and am 6’2”. I find the 55” I play with to be exceptionally short for most shots.
I’m curious about what factors you think might not make this advice applicable to carom players. Is it primarily that the commonly applied bridge lengths may differ between carom and pool?
Thanks again!
Being tall is undoubtedly an advantage overall... no question imo.
Its not. Stability and mechanics suffer. Those are more important than reaching over the table once in a while. Look at Jose Parica - one of the best to ever play and very short.
It is not exactly height it is reach, if your arms are short it doesn't matter how tall you are you will be better with a shorter cue.
So would a standard length be too short for a 5'10" player? If so, would you recommend getting a 31" shaft to make overall length like 60"?
IMO, yes. Longer butt/shaft are an option but sometimes won't fit in your case. 2" joint or butt extension is easiest.
Why not play with an open bridge hand, so you can see the ball. That will solve one main problem and keep your 7 to 8 inch bridge to ball?
Watch my video where I play Straight Pool. I use an open bridge more than any other.
My height is 5"5..so what is better cue stick for me sir.
Standard 57" or 58" cue will suit you just fine.
I am 6'2" and play with a regular sized OB cue. I grip the butt at the very end, and do have to elbow my bridge arm on some shots...I notice it the most when breaking. (I also play the game left handed even though I am right handed, but that's a different story.) It has taken many years but my game has improved naturally somewhat, but I wonder if an extension is in order.
IMO, at 6'-2" a standard length cue will definitely hold your game back. A 4" extension is the minimum and a 6" might be even better.
also how do you feel about the 50/50 rule where shaft and butt should be exact same length? personally I think a happy medium for me would be 31" shaft with my existing 29" butt.
I have never heard of that rule and it makes no sense to me at all.
@@ShortstopOnPool thanks I agree, it is treated as one piece in the end
I suggest, if you are video maker, please add another world wide measurements so all of us can understand and follow the video that we like.
Or at least put both of them. Thanks
Good idea. Wish I thought of it sooner. Will do.
Great video. I'm 6'4" and looking to buy a cue. Any suggestions?
There are no cues made for very tall players. Some custom makers will go up to 61 or 62". So buy the cue you like most and then a quality joint extension is my advice. Besides, cases are made for standard length cues.
@@ShortstopOnPool Ok thanks so much.
Wait.. Question. If Force=Mass x Acceleration, how is more acceleration with less mass more effective than more mass with less acceleration? For example 20oz cue stroking 10mph vs 10oz cue stroking 20mph. 10x20=200 and 20x10=200 / MxA Is the same as AxM. They both equal the same amount of F. Please explain this
Your math is correct. Whats missing is its easier to accelerate the cue more, and with more accuracy, with a lighter cue. All within reason, of course. You couldn't get a 2 ounce cue going fast enough - LOL. And the strength and lever (arm) length of the player factors in also.
@@ShortstopOnPool Ohhh I see. So it’s easier to accelerate the cue more and with more accuracy with a lighter cue than it is to accelerate a heavier cue with the same amount of action, accuracy, and speed control
those draw shots are a good measure of pool mechanics.
Good info. BUT, my arms, according to the tailor does a suit, my arms are 1" longer than normal. At 6'4", would i be 6'6", 2x1", OR just 6'5". The inch just may not matter so I'll just see what I can find at 68 or 69 in.?
Put a tape measure along a table. Now make a pool stance over the tape measure. Place your bridge hand such that the opening where the cue stick first touches your fingers is at zero. Make sure your grip arm is at 90 degrees to the cuestick. You can have a friend help or record video on your phone to check. Measure to the knuckle of your longest finger on your grip hand.
Now the math gets fuzzy. You should add 8 or 9 inches of bridge length, plus 5-6 inches of cue stick extending behind your grip hand. Those three numbers should give you a good idea of your optimal cue length. It won't be a specific number but a range of 2-3 inches from longest to shortest optimal.
Sir If i buy a production shaft extension like from the brand Balance Rite. they say that their extension not being custom made for one specific cue may cause your cue to not roll straight when using their shaft extension. Is it correct that such ( not rolling straight ) WILL NOT affect aiming and stroke accuracy since such is not due to a warped shaft or butt but rather the shaft extension though usable is not a perfect fit. Thank you
Great effort, but the music is very loud
I am 6 long with long arms
What do you suggest i need to go for?
Watch the video. It explains how to calculate.
Thx
Is the reverse true? Does a five foot nothin’ player need a slightly shorter stick?
Jose Parica is quite short, plays with a regular length cue.
I feel like arm length would be just as important as height
Arm length factors into the "shot triangle".
I'm 5'3 5foot3inshes tall I use a 57 length cue that is a 2 peace that weighs 19.5 what are better options for me if I wanna get better at my trick shots
I don't know anything about trick shots
I am unable to find any joint extensions that are more than 6 inches. Ideally I'm looing for a 10 inch extension if anyone knows of any.
You can buy a 6 and 4, but best bet will be have a cuemaker build one for you.
A couple of good points, but also many inaccuracies.
1. There were no 2 piece cues in the 1800s, those came mich later
2. Total cue length was 57" until the 1960s at least, many cues made by Balabushka for example are 57.
3. There is no way the average player height was 6ft in the 1980s, it was less. And are you referring to ww? US? It varies a lot country to country.
4. F = ma does NOT mean a lighter cue produces more force. That's a gross misrepresentation. Energy transfer is also ignored, with a carbon cue transmitting more of the force to the cb.
1. Yes there were. This article claims 1829. quedos.com.au/history-of-the-pool-cue/#:~:text=A%20few%20more%20years%20later,the%20middle%20of%20the%20stick.
2. 57" is correct, but many were 58".
3. I didn't say that. Worldwide average (not just pool players) was a RANGE from 5'-9" to 6'-0".
4. Again, I didn't say that. The point was that a lighter cue is easier to accelerate and with more control, which negates the benefit of a heavy cue in producing force. Also, this video had nothing to do with wood versus carbon, just keeping it simple and focused only on length for now.
To clarify further for those interested:
1)1828-1833, Thurston’s sells jointed cues
1860, metal screw introduced
1880, German catalog with over 160 different 1 & 2 piece cues
BCA article also states the 1829 date, bca-pool.com/page/39
2) 1960 birth year, height from 175cm (5’-9”) to 182cm (6’-0”) ourworldindata.org/human-height
3) Dr. Dave Alciatore, “increases in cue weight don’t have as large of a benefit as increases in cue speed”, billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/weight/
Where did you get the 8 inch extension ?
Built by local cuemaker
@@ShortstopOnPool Ahh, that explains it. How much does he charge for it?
@@HobbiesInterests Varies widely depending on materials and finish. Check with your local cue maker. But probably at least $100.
7" is a very short bridge... I like 9-10" on average...
But I get a better break with my 27oz break cue than a 20/21oz break cue 🤷♂️
Is there Anyway I could talk with you directly? I’d love to talk about some questions I have regarding pool.
Write me at bob@shortstoponpool.com
Please for the love of God. Can UA-camrs quit ruining a great instructional or informative video by playing music during the teaching.