Shooting Around Corners in Billiards: The Spin Technique Explained
1. What Does “Shooting Around Corners” Mean?
In billiards, the term “shooting around corners” often fascinates both beginners and advanced players. It describes shots where the cue ball bends, curves, or takes an unexpected path to reach the target.
Some players associate this ability with high-end cues like Meucci or Predator. The truth is: any well-made cue can achieve these results. The real difference comes from the player’s spin control and understanding of ball physics.
2. The Physics Behind the Shot
The cue ball is a sphere that reacts differently depending on where it is struck. By applying spin, players can change its behavior:
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Backspin (Draw shot): Hitting low on the cue ball makes it spin backward.
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Topspin (Follow shot): Hitting high makes it roll forward after contact.
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Side spin (English): Hitting left or right changes its sideways motion.
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Combined spin: Mixing vertical and horizontal spin creates advanced curves.
These principles allow the cue ball to curve, deflect, or rebound at unusual angles—key to “shooting around corners.”
3. Types of Spin in Billiards
3.1 Draw (Backspin – Low Hit)
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Striking below center makes the cue ball rotate backward.
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After hitting the object ball, the cue ball pulls back or slows sharply.
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Useful for positioning the cue ball behind the target (classic “draw shot”).
3.2 Center Ball Hit
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Striking the exact center produces little or no spin.
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The cue ball moves in a straight line and stops naturally after contact.
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Essential for beginners learning accuracy and stroke alignment.
3.3 Follow (Topspin – High Hit)
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Striking above center makes the cue ball roll forward after hitting the object ball.
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It continues traveling in the same direction as the object ball.
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When combined with side spin, this creates a smooth curving effect.
3.4 Side Spin (English – Left/Right)
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Striking left or right of center produces English.
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Left English: cue ball deflects to the right.
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Right English: cue ball deflects to the left.
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This is the core technique behind “shooting around corners.”
4. How Shooting Around Corners Works
4.1 Side Spin with Cushion Play
When the cue ball hits the rail with side spin, its rebound angle changes:
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With left English, it widens toward the right.
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With right English, it widens toward the left.
This effect lets players guide the cue ball to spots that would otherwise be unreachable.
4.2 Curve Shot
By striking the cue ball with side spin and moderate power, players can bend its path slightly on the cloth. This is ideal for avoiding blocking balls.
4.3 Massé Shot
The ultimate version of curve control. By striking downward at an angle with extreme spin, the cue ball makes a dramatic curve on the table. Massé is common in trick shots and exhibitions but requires advanced skill.
5. Advantages of Shooting Around Corners
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Tactical flexibility: Overcome blocked paths when other shots are impossible.
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Cue ball control: Curve or deflect the cue ball into favorable positions.
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Entertainment value: Curving shots impress audiences during exhibitions.
6. Practice Tips for Players
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Master basics first: Build a foundation with straight, draw, and follow shots.
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Control your power: Too much force reduces accuracy, too little prevents curves.
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Observe the cloth: Friction and table conditions affect how much the ball spins.
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Use repetition: Consistent practice improves muscle memory and cue control.
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Record your progress: Slow-motion video helps identify mistakes in spin execution.
7. The Truth About Meucci and Cue Technology
Meucci cues are famous for their accuracy, low-deflection shafts, and smooth feel. However, no cue alone can make the ball bend.
“Shooting around corners” depends on:
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Player’s stroke mechanics
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Spin placement on the cue ball
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Power and follow-through
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Angle of the cue at impact
In short, Meucci helps refine control, but the real magic comes from the player’s technique.
8. Conclusion
“Shooting around corners” in billiards is not a myth or a trick reserved for special cues. It is the result of applying physics—specifically draw, follow, and side spin—with precision and consistency.
While Meucci and other high-quality cues provide stability and comfort, the skill lies in the player’s ability to control spin. With enough practice, anyone can master shots that make the cue ball bend, curve, or rebound in spectacular ways.
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