How to Kick at a Ball in Pool: A Simple Guide to Kick Shots

Quick answer: A kick shot is when you hit the cue ball into a rail first so it bounces off and hits the ball you need. You use it when another ball blocks the straight path. For a simple one rail kick, picture the target ball’s mirror image on the other side of the rail, then aim the cue ball at that mirror spot. Use a medium speed with a center ball hit, and adjust after you see how your table plays.

Every player gets snookered sometimes, and in 9 ball it happens a lot because you must hit the lowest numbered ball first. That means a ball is in the way and you cannot hit your target ball directly. In many games, missing the target ball is a foul that can give your opponent ball in hand. A good kick shot gives you a chance to hit the ball, and sometimes even make it.

What Is a Kick Shot?

A kick shot sends the cue ball into one or more rails before it hits the object ball. A bank shot is different. In a bank shot, the object ball goes into the rail. In a kick shot, the cue ball does.

The Mirror Method for One Rail Kicks

This is the easiest way to start.

Find the rail you want the cue ball to bounce off.
Picture a mirror along that rail.
Imagine where the target ball would show up in the mirror. It is the same distance behind the rail as the real ball is in front of it.
Aim the cue ball straight at that mirror spot.
The cue ball should hit the rail and bounce toward the real ball.

It works because, in a simple model, a ball comes off the rail at about the same angle it went in. Real tables are not perfect. Speed, spin, and the cushions all change the path a little.

How to Aim Using the Diamonds

The diamonds on the rails help you see the mirror spot. Count diamonds from the corner to the target ball, then find the halfway point on the rail you are kicking off of. Many players learn diamond systems for two and three rail kicks too. Start with the one rail mirror method first.

Speed and Spin

Use medium speed. Very hard shots can make the cue ball bounce off the rail at a shorter angle. Very soft shots may not get there.
Hit the cue ball near center. Side spin changes the angle off the rail. Leave it out until you know how it works.
Think about where the cue ball goes after. If you only need to hit the ball, a softer kick can leave a safe position.

When to Kick and When to Jump

Some players jump over the blocking ball instead. Jump shots need a cue made for jumping and a lot of practice. For most players, a kick shot is the safer choice and works on almost any table.

How to Practice Kick Shots

Put an object ball near the middle of a short rail.
Put a blocker ball between it and the cue ball.
Use the mirror method to kick off a long rail.
Watch where the cue ball hits. Is it long or short?
Move the balls and try new angles.
Write down what you learn about your table.

Common Mistakes

Guessing the angle. Take time to find the mirror spot.
Hitting too hard. The angle shortens and control goes away.
Adding side spin by accident. Check that your tip hits the center of the cue ball.
Only thinking about the hit. Plan where the cue ball and object ball end up.

Kick shots look fancy, but the basic one rail kick is something any player can learn. A little practice turns a foul into a fair hit, and that can change a game.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a kick shot and a bank shot?

In a kick shot, the cue ball hits a rail before the object ball. In a bank shot, the object ball hits a rail on its way to the pocket.

How do you aim a kick shot?

For a one rail kick, picture the target ball's mirror image behind the rail and aim the cue ball at that mirror spot.

What speed should I use for a kick shot?

Medium speed is a good place to start. Very hard shots can change the angle off the rail.

Should I use spin on a kick shot?

Start with a center ball hit. Side spin changes the angle, so add it only after you learn how it works.