Bar Games 101 is an online resource where you can learn how to play and get better at pool, including games like 8-ball, 9-ball, straight pool, cutthroat, and other types of billiards games, along with technique and practice advice and the best equipment to use.
For a complete overview of how to play pool, check out this guide.
Don’t disregard the importance of pool chalk. Applying it correctly is crucial to making good contact with the cue ball. If you do it wrong, you will shoot poorly and probably miss the cue ball a few times. This post provides an overview of billiards chalk, including why you need it and how to use … Read more
Before you rack the balls and break, you’re going to want to arm yourself with a great cue. If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to find a cue that’s easy to handle, durable, sized correctly and straight. This post includes information that will help you understand what factors to look for in a new cue, … Read more
If you’re looking for a new way to play pool with your friends, there are plenty of other billiards games to try out. We’re all familiar with the standard games of pool such as 8-ball and 9-ball. These are the go-to games for most pool players. While we love these traditional American billiards games, eventually … Read more
If you’re reading this, you may be on the fence about whether you need a breaking cue to improve your pool game. While these specialty pool cues can have a big impact on the quality of your breaks, they’re not necessary for everyone. In this post, I’ll try to break down why you may or … Read more
It’s time to learn the Rules for 8-Ball Pool. If you walk into a bar or a pool hall and you see people playing pool, there’s a good chance they’re in the middle of a game of 8-ball. It’s so common for pool players, both novices and experts, that we don’t even give it much … Read more
Want to know how to hold a pool stick? Let’s clear that up for you with some basic tips on hand placement, grip and your bridge. Beginner pool players usually don’t want to waste precious time worrying about how to hold a pool stick. It’s much more fun to grab the pool cue, take aim, … Read more
If you want to get better at pool, you need to practice . . . the right way It takes a lot of practice to get better at pool. Just like any of the other best bar games. But most beginner pool players practice pool the wrong way. Beginner pool players often skip right past … Read more
An overview of how to play the game of 9-ball pool, including racking, game rules, strategy and penalties.
Have you heard of Cutthroat pool, but you’re not really sure what it’s all about? It may sound a little intimidating if you’re new to pool. Yet the game of Cutthroat is actually perfect for all levels of pool players. Cutthroat is a popular, fun and social billiards game that’s perfect when you have an … Read more
So you want to know more about pool table slate? You came to the right place. It’s actually a really interesting topic that goes back to the 1820s. Sure, learning about slate won’t make you play better pool – but it might give you better respect for the sport! What is a Slate Pool Table? The … Read more
If you enjoy playing the game of 9 ball, it’s probably worth taking a few minutes to learn how to play 10 Ball Pool. The two games are very similar. Both are rotation style pool games where you must aim for the lowest number on the table in working your way up to the highest … Read more
The learning curve is huge for anyone who is just beginning the journey to learn how to play pool or billiards. There are so many pool and billiard terms, it can be hard to learn it all. Mastering the correct stance, cue techniques, angles, and strategies all are quite overwhelming at first. Luckily, the internet has … Read more
Playing billiards or pool is a great way to enjoy time with friends and family, and is a game with a satisfying level of challenge and skill for players of all abilities. A seven foot pool table can be a fantastic compromise between the amount of playing surface you need to play a real, satisfying … Read more
Pool tables are not cheap. The best way to protect your investment and get the best possible playing experience is by maintaining your pool table correctly. That includes wiping down the rails, cleaning out the pockets, and of course, taking care of the playing surface. From daily care after playing a few games to deeper … Read more