Having a good stun shot in pool is a skill you need to master. It can be the difference between winning and losing. There are many kinds of shots. Each has its own rules. It's not enough to hit the ball. You must hit the ball hard. The greater the chances that it will be able to pocket, the more you hit it.
A stunshot is a shot which requires a strong hit. In a straight pool game this means the cue ball should travel straight in and not veer off-course. This is often accomplished by lifting the butt end or putting an oblique jack.
A "break", also known as a shot, is one made at the last OOB of a straight swimming pool game. There are a few different types of break shots. Some are intended to help you out of trouble, others are meant to make it more easy to score. One example is the golden break or the golden pocket.
Another option is the break out shot or break-out. This type of shot is great for scoring a quick shot when the cluster of balls is out of place. If you're lucky, your shot will jar up your opponent and put him in a bad spot. Often, a good hit will result in an OB that is still on the table, making it harder to knock the ball off.
A "break" isn't the only way to win. The following are other ways you can achieve the same result:
Grade "A" shot is one that is highly likely to succeed. For example, a good hit will strike an OB first, followed by a second hit that can pocket the OB.
Fancy shot: This is a rare skill that takes a lot of practice and a prop or two. Typically, this involves a very short and punchy stroke, called a "J" stroke. A "J" stroke, unlike a jab stroke is curved like a pendulum. A "jelly roll", which is similar to a jab stroke, is a cue ball roll that is particularly beneficial for the shooter.
Fancy-looking: Another name for a fancy-looking shot is a "flight." Flight is a fancy-looking shot. It is not necessarily the best, but it is certainly the most impressive. Normally, a flight is a low percentage shot, such as a top/bottom spin or a flyer.
Stun shot. Although not as glamorous as other types shot, a good stun shot is vital. It's good to keep it close at hand. If you don't, your opponent might easily win.
The jelly roll, the stun shot and the nip drawing are all other common names for stun shots. But which is the most important one?
A nip-draw is a good thing in pool because it keeps the CB on the table. The follow-through is minimal, so a nip stroke can be a bit more difficult.