8-Ball
Solids versus stripes, called-pocket decisions, break-and-run planning, BCA/CSI rules, and APA handicapped races.
Open 8-Ball guide →Pocket Billiards · Game Formats
Five games. Five different ways to control the table.
Each guide begins by separating open/non-handicap play from handicap play, then moves through the rack, objective, rules, match flow, fouls, strategy, practice, and events.
Current as of July 26, 2026Schedules and tour details can change. Confirm entries, rules, and dates with the official organizer before traveling.
Game formats
Choose the game you want to understand.
9-Ball
Lowest ball first, legal combinations, push-out and safety choices, open races, and APA points races.
Open 9-Ball guide →10-Ball
Tighter break and call-shot rules, professional 10-Ball, and local Fargo/race handicap methods.
Open 10-Ball guide →One Pocket
One scoring pocket per player, eight balls to win, stack management, intentional fouls, and score spots.
Open One Pocket guide →Straight Pool (14.1)
Call ball and pocket, build patterns, preserve a break ball, re-rack fourteen, and manage innings.
Open Straight Pool guide →How to read the guides
Two competition models appear on every page.
Same target for both players
The reference lane uses WPA rules and CSI/BCA-style tournament procedure. The race, score, or inning target is the same for both players unless the event guide states otherwise.
Different target, same table
APA is the primary national handicap reference for 8-Ball and 9-Ball. Other games commonly use Fargo-adjusted races, games on the wire, points, or ball-count spots rather than a standard APA national format.
Before the first break
Rules hierarchy.
1
Event regulations
The tournament director’s published guide controls equipment, break procedure, shot clock, dress code, and penalties.
2
Sanctioning rules
Use WPA, CSI/BCA, APA, or OnePocket.org based on the event.
3
Local bylaws
League bylaws can change schedules, timeouts, scorekeeping, and roster limits.
4
Pre-match agreement
Clarify rack, break order, called shots, jump cues, handicap, and foul procedure before play.