Pool has been played since the early 15th century, with many different versions of the game showing up in pubs and bars. Besides the typical 8-ball game, two versions of table game have gained popularity over time; these are 9-ball and 10-ball pool. But what are the differences between the two?
The main difference between a 9-ball and a 10-ball pool is the number of balls used. In a 9-ball pool, the players don’t need to call out their shot, while in a 10-ball, the ball and intended pocket must be called. In a 9-ball pool, the balls are racked in a diamond, while a triangle is used in a 10-ball.
Read on to discover the differences between these two pool games, what they have in common and what the rules are for each pool game.
The Differences Between 9-Ball And 10-Ball Pool
There are very subtle differences between a 9-ball and a 10-ball pool. Still, there is enough of a difference that each game offers its unique challenge. Both games require a player to pocket the balls in numerical order to win, but let’s find out what other differences there are:
How Many Balls Are Used In 9-Ball And 10-Ball Pool
The amount of balls each game is played with is the main difference between 9-ball and 10-ball. In the 9-ball pool, there are 9 numbered balls and a white cue ball. The 10-ball pool is similar, but there are 10 numbered balls and a cue ball. The balls are numbered in numerical order. The color of the balls may differ from venue to venue, as many pubs will personalize their pool equipment.
How Are The Balls Racked In 9-ball And 10-ball?
Due to the extra ball in 10-ball, the balls are racked in a triangle rather than in a diamond used in 9-ball. When racking balls for the 9-ball, the number 1 ball is placed at the top corner of the diamond, and the remaining balls can go into the diamond in any order, with the 9-ball in the center.
A 10-ball rack is in the shape of a triangle to accommodate the extra ball. The number 1 ball is placed at the top corner, while the number 2 and 3 balls are placed in the right and left corners of the triangle. The remaining balls can go into the triangle in any order, with the 10-ball in the center.
Do Players Need To Call There Shot In 9-ball And 10-ball
When playing a 9-ball pool, you are not required to call your shot or pocket before playing a shot. This is often referred to as “slop.” This allows a poor or lucky shot to be rewarded if the correct ball is pocketed.
In a 10-ball pool, there is “no slop” allowed. This means that every shot must be called or annunciated to the opponent and the referee. A foul will be called if the shot is played and the ball is pocketed in the un-nominated pocket. The same rule applies if the incorrect ball is pocketed.
Is There A Push-Out Shot In 9-ball And 10-ball?
A push-out shot is when a player attempts to move the cue ball to a better position. A push-out may only be called on the first shot after the break. During a push-out shot, the cue ball does not need to touch a rail or a ball; it is only to reposition the cue ball.
After the shot is played, the other player will have the choice to play from the new position or give the turn back to the shooter. The shooter will then have to continue playing from the new position.
A push shot is allowed in both 9-ball and 10-ball. It is often used as a strategic play at the beginning of the game.
What Are The Rules For 9-ball And 10-ball Pool?
The rules for 9-ball and 10-ball are very similar, but they must be followed correctly not to commit a foul. Below are the rules for both pool games.
The Rules For 9-Ball Pool
These are the standard rules for a 9-ball pool, but each bar or pool hall may have its own set of additional rules. Always check the rules before playing to avoid any mix-ups.
- The ball must be pocketed in numerical order.
- The play will pass on to the next player in the event of a missed shot, foul, or if a ball is struck or pocketed out of numerical order.
- To win the game, the 9-ball does not need to be called by the player.
- A ball must remain in the pocket to be counted as sunk. Any ball that bounces back or hops out will not be considered pocketed.
- A player may not hit the 9-ball directly unless it is the last ball on the table.
- On the break shot, the number 1 ball must be struck first.
- If the next numerical ball is struck with the cue ball first, any other balls pocketed will count, and the player may continue their turn.
- At least one ball must contact the rail after the cue ball has struck the object ball. If no ball contacts the rail, a foul will be called.
- A 9-ball game can be won in two ways;
1) The 9-ball may be pocketed once all the balls have been sunk in numerical order.
2) A combination shot may be played, where the next numerical ball contacts the 9-ball and pockets it.
The Rules For 10-Ball Pool
These are the standard rules for a 10-ball pool. Additional rules may be added by the pool hall, club, or tournament. Always confirm the rules when playing at an establishment for the first time.
- If a player does not pocket the ball that was called, the shot will not count.
- On the break shot, the cue ball must be behind the head string or kitchen.
- If there is no ball pocketed on the break, then a minimum of four balls must contact the rail.
- A push-out shot may be called directly after the break shot. If a push shot is called, the player must make the intentions known to the referee.
- During the push-out shot, if the 10-ball is pocketed, it will be returned to the table without any penalty.
- 10-ball is a no-slop game. The player must call out the ball and intended pocket they are playing.
- A safety shot may be called at any time after the break. A safety shot will permit the player to make contact with the intended object ball without pocketing it, and the player’s turn is over. The next player has the option to play the cue ball as it lies or hand the turn back to the other player.
- The player’s turn is over if a ball is pocketed in the incorrect pocket or if the incorrect ball is pocketed. The next player may play it as it lies or let the other player play it as it lies.
- If the foul is committed, the next player may take the cue ball in hand and place it anywhere on the table.
- If a player commits three consecutive fouls, the player will forfeit the game.
- A 10-ball game can be won in two ways;
1) The 10-ball may be pocketed once all the balls have been sunk in numerical order.
2) A combination shot may be played, where the next numerical ball contacts the 10-ball and pockets it.
Conclusion
9-ball and 10-ball pool are very similar and share many of the same rules. In a 9-ball pool, the player is not required to call out the shot, while this is a rule in a 10-ball. Two methods can be used to win both pool games; the first is pocketing the 9/10 ball when it is the last on the table. The second method uses a combination shot where the next numerical ball contacts the 9/10 ball and sinks it.
