Open Rail Bridge


This is the most effective bridge when the cue ball is frozen to, or less than three inches off the rail. In this bridge, the hand should be flattened, with the heel of the hand slightly raised. To ensure greater control, spread the thumb out, so the cue drops between the thumb and index finger. Many pros cock the knuckle of the index finger, to give the cue stick a more effective guide.


Because you are stroking the very top of the cue ball, the way you stroke the ball is as important as the position of your hands. To maximize control, take short, deliberate practice strokes. Your emphasis should be on the forward motion of the shot, so try to minimize backswing. Try to hit the ball dead center. Make sure your cue does not raise up off your bridge hand at any time. On shots slightly further from the rail (2-3 inches), it's sometimes helpful to use the edge of the cushion to further guide the shot.


V-Bridge


The V-Bridge should be used when the cue ball is slightly further (3-5 inches) from the rail. With this bridge, the rail is used extensively in the guidance of the cue, forming a channel with the index and middle fingers.


To form a V-Bridge, lay your cue stick on the rail of the table. Tuck your thumb beneath your palm and form the channel by looping your index finger over the cue. Your cue should be able to glide smoothly along the rail, through the channel formed on the left by the thumb and middle finger; on the right, by the index finger (for right-handed players). Keep your remaining fingers flat on the rail, and keep your backswing level.


Over-A-Ball Bridge


This is probably the most uncomfortable and difficult bridge to master. The over-a-ball bridge is basically an extension of the open bridge, with the base fingers standing on "tiptoes." It is used when the cue must be elevated; when you need to shoot over an object ball, in order to strike the cue ball.


To form an effective bridge (and maximize cue control), it is vital to form a steady and stable base of support. Don't attempt a shot until your finger base is solid and balanced. Forming an effective "V" with the thumb and top knuckle of the index finger, is also imperative for an accurate stroke.


To form the bridge, position your hand behind the obstructing object ball. Try to place it as close to the object ball as possible. The closer your hand is, the more height you'll have to clear the ball on your stroke. Arch your wrist by extending all four fingers to the table. Form a "V" by extending your thumb upward. To prevent tapping the object ball (a foul), don't bring the cue into the bridge until it is stable and fully formed. Elevate the butt to the necessary height and take several short practice strokes. The cue will slide along the "V" and over the obstructing ball, with your elevation of the butt end of the cue.