Why is a 1/2-ball hit (30° cut angle) so useful?

The “natural angle” effect associated with a half-ball hit is one of the most important principles in pool and billiards. It is the basis of the 30° rule, which states that for a rolling CB, the carom angle is very close to 30° for all cut angles between 1/4-ball and 3/4-ball hits (not just a 1/2-ball hit). This gem is the single most important and useful principle in pool, especially when used in conjunction with the peace-sign technique.

Many additional resources, with lots of illustrations, examples, and video links related to these principle, can be found here:

The 1/2-ball hit is a common shot, especially in the game of 9-ball, where you need to move the CB around the table a lot. With a 1/2-ball hit, the CB easily be given enough speed to travel significant distance. The CB’s motion can also be killed fairly easily with a 1/2-ball hit. Also, sidespin is very effective off the cushions with a 1/2-ball hit. For thinner hits, the faster ball speed reduces the effect of the sidespin; and for fuller hits and the resulting slower speed of the CB, the spin doesn’t grab as well, especially on new cloth.

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