You must be able to hit a great stun shot in pool. It can mean the difference between winning and falling. There are a number of different types of shots, and each one has its own rules and techniques. You cannot simply hit the ball. You'll need to hit the ball hard. The more you hit it, the better the chance it will pocket.
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 can be achieved by raising the butt end of your cue or putting a jack on it.
A "break" is a shot that is made at the last OB of a straight pool game. There are several different types of break shots. Some are used to get out of trouble, while others are designed to make it easier to score. One such is the golden break, or the golden pocket.
Another option is the break out shot or break-out. This type is a great way to score quick shots when the ball cluster moves out of position. Your shot may be able to jar your opponent, putting him in a difficult spot. A good hit can often result in an OB that's still on the table. This makes it more difficult to knock the ball off.
The "break", however, is not the only way you can score a win. The following are other ways you can achieve the same result:
Grade "A" shot: This is a shot that has a high probability of success. One example is a hit that hits the OB first. Then, a second hit could win the OB.
Fancy shot: This is a rare skill that takes a lot of practice and a prop or two. This is a short, punchy stroke called a "J". Contrary to a jab stroke a "J” stroke is curved much like a pendulum. A "jellyroll" is an additional benefit 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. A flight is typically a low percentage shot such as a top/bottom spinning or a flyer.
Stun shot. Although not as glamorous as other types shot, a good stun shot is vital. It's a good idea if you have it. You could lose the match if you don't have it.
The jelly roll, the stun shot and the nip drawing are all other common names for stun shots. But which one is the most important?
A nip-draw is a good thing in pool because it keeps the CB on the table. A nipstroke is slightly more difficult because there is very little follow through.