How to Use a Mechanical Bridge in Pool: 6 Simple Steps

Quick answer: To use a mechanical bridge, lay the bridge head flat on the table about 6 to 12 inches behind the cue ball, rest your cue in one of the grooves, and hold the back of the cue with your fingertips at about shoulder height. Stand to the side, keep the bridge still with your other hand, and use a short, smooth stroke straight through the cue ball. It feels strange at first, but it is much better than stretching off balance.

A mechanical bridge, often called a rake or a crutch, is a stick with a notched head that holds your cue when you cannot reach the cue ball. Some players think it is only for beginners. That is not true. Good players use it when a shot calls for it, because a steady bridge beats a wobbly stretch.

When Should You Use a Mechanical Bridge?

When the cue ball is too far away to reach with a normal stance.
When you would have to lean so far that you lift a foot or lose balance.
When a house rule says you need a foot on the floor and you cannot reach.

If you have to choose between a shaky stretch and the bridge, the bridge is often the better choice.

How to Use a Mechanical Bridge in 6 Steps

Step 1: Set the Bridge Head Flat

Put the bridge head on the table about 6 to 12 inches behind the cue ball, on the line of the shot. Lay it flat so it does not tip. The handle should run along the table, off to one side so it stays out of your way.

Step 2: Pick a Groove

The bridge head has grooves at different heights. Use a lower groove for most shots. Use a higher groove if you need to hit higher on the cue ball or get over a ball that is in the way.

Step 3: Hold the Bridge Down

Put your front hand on the handle of the bridge and press down lightly so it stays still. Many players rest that hand on the table or hold the handle against the rail.

Step 4: Hold the Cue Differently

This is the big change. Instead of a normal grip with your arm hanging down, hold the butt of the cue with your thumb and first two or three fingers, like holding a dart or a pen. Raise your elbow out to the side so the cue is level and your forearm is behind it.

Step 5: Stand to the Side and Aim

You do not get down low over the cue like a normal shot. Stand up more, off to the side, so you can see down the line. Look from the cue tip to the cue ball to the object ball.

Step 6: Use a Short, Smooth Stroke

Keep the stroke short and push the cue straight through the ball. Do not jab, and do not swing your whole body. After the hit, hold still so the cue does not bump the bridge or the balls.

Tips for Better Bridge Shots

Keep the cue level. Lift the back of the cue only as much as you need.
Do not hit too hard. Control is easier with a medium or soft speed.
Watch the bridge head. After the shot, lift the bridge off carefully so it does not touch any balls.
Practice it. Set up a few long shots in practice and use the bridge on purpose.

Common Mistakes

Gripping the cue like a normal shot. Your arm cannot swing well from this angle.
Bridge head too far from the cue ball. The cue tip wanders.
Bridge not flat. It slides or tips when you stroke.
Dragging the bridge across balls. Moving a ball by accident can be a foul in many rule sets.

Is There a Better Option?

Some shots can be reached with a behind the back stroke or by switching to your other hand. Those take a lot of practice. For most players, the mechanical bridge is the safest choice on a long reach.

Next time you see a long shot, do not stretch and hope. Grab the bridge, set it up right, and make a calm, smooth stroke.

Keep Reading on This Site

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use a mechanical bridge in pool?

Yes. It is a normal piece of pool equipment, and good players use it when a shot is out of reach.

How do you hold the cue with a mechanical bridge?

Hold the butt of the cue with your thumb and a few fingers, with your elbow out to the side so the cue stays level.

How far should the bridge be from the cue ball?

About 6 to 12 inches behind the cue ball works for most shots.

Should I hit hard with a mechanical bridge?

Usually no. A short, smooth stroke at soft or medium speed gives you better control.