What Is a Masse Shot in Pool? How the Cue Ball Curves and When to Use It

Quick answer: A masse shot in pool is a shot where you raise the back of your cue and hit down on the cue ball off center. The steep angle plus side spin makes the cue ball curve around a ball that is in the way. A small curve made with a slightly raised cue is often called a semi masse or swerve shot. A big curve made with a very steep cue is a full masse. Masse shots are hard, and a bad one can tear the cloth, so practice only where you have permission.

The word masse (said “mah SAY”) comes from the French word for a mace or hammer. Players use it when a normal straight shot or a kick shot will not work.

How a Masse Shot Works

When the cue is level, side spin only makes the cue ball turn a little. When you raise the cue and hit down and to one side, the ball spins sideways against the cloth. That spin pulls the ball into a curve.

Cue angle	Shot name	How much curve
A little raised	Swerve or semi masse	Small curve
Steeper	Masse	Bigger curve
Close to straight up	Full masse	Very big curve, even back toward you

When to Use a Masse Shot

A ball blocks the straight path to your object ball.
A kick shot off a rail is harder or riskier.
A jump shot is not allowed or the blocking ball is too close.

For most players, a kick shot is the safer choice. Read about the rails and diamonds in how to use the diamonds on a pool table.

How to Hit a Basic Swerve Shot

Start with small curves before you try a full masse.

Raise the back of your cue a little, maybe a few inches higher than normal.
Aim the cue a bit outside the blocking ball.
Hit the cue ball off center on the side you want it to curve toward.
Use a smooth, medium stroke. Do not jab.
Watch the curve and change your angle and spin on the next try.

For many players, the most common problem is a miscue. Chalk well and read why do i miscue in pool.

Masse Shot Safety and Table Care

Many pool halls do not allow masse shots because a miss can rip the cloth. Always ask first.
Never try a full masse on someone else’s home table without their okay.
Use a short, controlled stroke when you learn.
A firm bridge helps keep the tip from slipping.

Is a Masse Shot Legal?

Yes, a masse is a legal shot in standard pool rules as long as you hit the cue ball only once with the tip and do not push it. A double hit is a foul. See what is a double hit in pool and what is a push shot in pool.

Masse vs Other Escape Shots

Shot	How it gets past the blocker
Kick shot	Off one or more rails
Jump shot	Over the blocking ball
Masse or swerve	Curves around the blocking ball

Often the best choice is not to need an escape at all. Good position play and safety play keep you out of trouble. See what is a safety shot in pool and how to play position in pool.

The Bottom Line

A masse shot in pool makes the cue ball curve by hitting down on it with side spin and a raised cue. Start with small swerve shots, chalk well, and practice only where it is allowed. For most players, a kick or a safety is the smarter choice, but a little swerve can save a game.

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