What are the rules of American Pool?

Fancy being the know-it-all and taking home the crown when it comes to your next game of American Pool? Let’s run through the rules but to make it fun… shot for everytime we say ball/s 😉

The Basics: American pool is a popular cue sport played on a rectangular table with six pockets.

Equipment: You need a pool table, duh! 15 balls (seven striped, seven solid, one black), and a white cue ball.

Rack Setup: The balls are set up in a triangle at the foot of the table, with the black ball in the centre. The front ball of the rack is placed on the foot spot, with a striped ball and a solid ball at the two rear corners.

Break Shot: One player breaks by hitting the white cue ball from behind the head string line, aiming to break the balls. Can’t decide who should break?  Last person who showered (yes, we are judging you). 

The Game: 

Objective: The main goal is to pocket all of your group of balls (either stripes or solids) and then pocket the black ball for the crown.

Deciding Groups: After the break, if a player pockets a ball, that group (stripes or solids) becomes theirs for the game. If no balls are pocketed on the break, the table is your oyster, and players can aim for either group.

Turns and Shots: Players take turns attempting to pocket their group of balls. A player’s turn continues until they fail to pocket a ball or commit a foul.

Fouls: Common fouls include failing to hit any balls, pocketing the white cue ball, hitting an opponent’s ball first, or knocking the white cue ball off the table. Fouls result in the opposite opponent having ball-in-hand, meaning they can place the cue ball anywhere on the table for their next shot.

Winning the Game: After pocketing all their group balls, a player must then pocket the black ball. The black ball must be pocketed in a designated pocket, which the player must call before the shot. Pocketing the black ball prematurely or committing a foul while pocketing the black ball results in an automatic loss.

Differences Between American Pool and English Pool (we know you’re wondering…)

Table Size: American pool tables are generally larger, typically 9 feet long, compared to the smaller 7-foot English pool tables.

Balls: American Pool uses larger balls, numbered and colour-coded for stripes and solids. English Pool uses smaller, uniformly-sized balls, usually red and yellow, without numbers.

Pockets: American Pool pockets are wider and more forgiving, while English Pool pockets are narrower and more challenging.

American pool is a game of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck (so don’t worry, you can come and play a bright eyed beginner) At BOOM BATTLE BAR, we offer you the chance to enjoy this classic game in an environment with unbeatable vibes. Whether you’re looking to master the rules or just have some fun, our doors are always open for a game of American Pool.

So grab your cue, line up your shot, and enjoy. We can’t wait to see you sink that winning ball!

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