What Is Cue Ball Deflection? A Simple Guide to Squirt in Pool
Quick answer: Cue ball deflection, also called squirt, is when the cue ball pushes off the aim line because you hit it left or right of center. If you hit the right side of the cue ball, it tends to push a little to the left. If you hit the left side, it tends to push a little to the right. The more side spin and the harder the shot, the more you may notice it. Players adjust for it by aiming a little to make up for the push, or by using less side spin.
Have you ever used english and missed a shot you were sure you aimed right? Cue ball deflection may be the reason. Here is what it is and how to deal with it.
What Is Deflection?
When your cue tip hits the cue ball off center, it does not just add spin. It also pushes the cue ball a little in the other direction. So the cue ball does not leave on the exact line you aimed. This push is called deflection or squirt.
Which Way Does the Cue Ball Go?
- Hit right of center: the cue ball pushes a little to the left.
- Hit left of center: the cue ball pushes a little to the right.
- Hit center: there is no side push.
Draw and follow, which are hits below or above center, do not cause this side push the same way, because they are not left or right of center.
What Is Swerve?
Swerve is a different thing that often happens at the same time. After the cue ball pushes off line, the side spin can make it curve back a little as it rolls on the cloth. Swerve is stronger when the back of your cue is raised and when the shot is slow over a long distance.
Deflection pushes the ball one way. Swerve can curve it back the other way. Together, they decide where the cue ball really hits the object ball.
What Makes Deflection Bigger?
- More side spin. The farther from center you hit, the more push.
- The cue shaft. Some shafts are made to reduce deflection. These are often called low deflection shafts. How much they help can differ from cue to cue.
- Speed. Deflection and swerve change with how hard you hit.
How Do You Adjust for It?
1. Use Less Side Spin
The simplest fix is to use only as much english as you need. Many shots can be played with a center hit.
2. Aim to Make Up for the Push
If you know your cue ball will push left, aim slightly to the right, and the other way around. How much depends on your cue, your speed, and the distance. You learn this through practice.
3. Back Hand English
Some players use a method called back hand english. They aim with a center hit first, then pivot the back of the cue to add side spin. This can help cancel some of the deflection. It works better with some cues than others.
4. Keep the Cue Level
A level cue cuts down on swerve. If your cue is tilted up, the ball can curve more.
Deflection at a Glance
| Term | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Deflection or squirt | Cue ball pushes off the aim line |
| Swerve | Cue ball curves as it rolls |
| Throw | Object ball goes off line because of friction at contact |
| Low deflection shaft | A shaft made to push the cue ball less |
A Simple Drill to See Deflection
- Place the cue ball on the head spot and aim straight at the center diamond on the far rail.
- Shoot with a center hit. Note where it hits the rail.
- Shoot again with right english, same aim, same speed. Note where it hits.
- Shoot with left english. Note where it hits.
You will see how far your cue ball pushes with your cue and your stroke. That is your own deflection.
Should Beginners Worry About Deflection?
Not too much. If you are new, use a center hit most of the time. Learn to aim and stroke straight first. Once that is steady, start learning how side spin moves the cue ball. For help with the basics, see our page on how to stop scratching in pool and our post on why do I miscue in pool.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is cue ball deflection in pool?
It is when the cue ball pushes off the aim line because you hit it left or right of center.
Is deflection the same as squirt?
Yes. Many players use deflection and squirt to mean the same thing.
Which way does the cue ball deflect?
The opposite way of the spin. Right english pushes it left, and left english pushes it right.
How do you reduce cue ball deflection?
Use less side spin, keep the cue level, and some players try a low deflection shaft.