Learn the Masse Technique
Masse is used to make tight turns around another ball. It is a difficult technique to master yet can be quite useful when playing in a tournament.
The Masse is an extremely complicated combination of physics. It requires lots of concentration and lots of practice. This shot is not for the amateur Billiard Player. Severe damage can be caused to the surface of the Pool Table if the shot is not done correctly. Tears and rips can occur along with damage to the tip of your cue.
While the Masse is not a recommended shot, it can come in handy if you are able to master it. However, it is always a gamble when it comes to accuracy of the shot.
The angle of the Cue Ball path and your shot speed play a huge role in a successful Masse shot. If you do not have a good feel for the speed and effects of table conditions, you will not have much luck with Masse.
To perform the Masse shot, you will raise the bottom of your cue stick so that it is almost perpendicular with the Pool Table. Many players will sit on the rail while performing this type of shot since you aim by looking down the shaft to the tip.
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You will strike the Cue Ball on an outer surface which causes the spin needed to curve around the object ball. The only way to truly perfect this shot is by trying it over and over again. This can prove to be rather expensive if you miss the Cue Ball and rip the Pool Table cloth. It is critical for you to have a stable bridge, an accurate stroke and to be confident with the contact point on the Cue Ball.
The type of cloth on your Pool Table will have a big impact on the Masse action. A high-friction cloth can make it rather difficult to get a big curve. This is because the initial impact with the cloth by the Cue Ball can limit the action of your Cue Stick.
Masse shot practice can be quite brutal to your Pool Table cloth while you are developing your technique. If you care about the table you are practicing on, you may want to consider using a spare piece of cloth. This will limit the possible abuse and future repairs.
There are many different shots and techniques you can use to navigate around interfering object balls. Masse is one of the more common techniques. However, I recommend that casual players as well as beginners steer clear of it and focus on their regular game. The fancy shots can come later once the fundamentals of the game have been mastered.
Of course, it is every Pool Player's dream to become a well known trick shooter. Until you have a solid form and developed techniques, it is best to save the "pretty" shots for last.
