The "Ladies' Aid." The "crutch." The mechanical bridge. The object of score and ridicule. When, in truth, the mechanical bridge is a very useful instrument. Using it is not a sign of "effeminate" weakness, but intelligence, self-assuredness and playing to win.


If a shot is beyond reach with any of the aforementioned bridges, the mechanical bridge should be used. Its simple purpose is to provide cue support and guidance, on shots too far to reach with your arms. Using it prevents you from committing a foul (at least one foot must be in contact with the floor when the cue tip contacts the cue ball). It also prevents you from overextending your body and arms, and shooting from an awkward, unbalanced stance.


Whenever possible, the handle of the mechanical bridge should be held against the table. This provides a far more stable base of support than holding it upright in the hand. When forced to hold the bridge upright because of intervening object balls, be sure your grip is steady, your stance is balanced, and your stroke is fluid and smooth.
The bridge should be placed approximately 8-10 inches from the cue ball. (As you become more accomplished, you can adjust this. For shots that require minimal action on the cue ball, a short bridge is best. A longer bridge allows for a longer stroke and more action). Stand more erect then you normally would. Keep the butt of your cue about chest high. Bridge your cue in the appropriate slot. (Most mechanical bridges have five slots-three on the top, and one on each side. A higher slot should be used to produce "follow;" a lower slot to produce "draw."


Grip your cue at the end with your thumb and first two fingers. A nice, easy stroke should be all you need. Use a short backswing, and follow through on the shot as you normally would. For shots requiring you to shoot over a ball, turn the bridge on its side. This will nearly double the height of the bridge, allowing you to shoot over the obstructing ball by using a slot on the side.