What Is the Proper Way to Rack Pool Balls?

Pool is a precise game, where shots are made by millimeters. Some "precise" sticklers insist that when racking the balls to start the game--15 balls for 8-Ball, nine balls in 9-Ball--they must be in particular order.

  1. The Rack

    • 8-Ball uses a triangular rack. The rules of the World Pool-Billiard Association say that the ball at the top of the triangle must be on the "spot." Most pool tables have an actual spot on the felt to let you know where the ball goes.

    Eight Ball

    • For 8-Ball, the eight ball must be directly under the ball on the spot--the middle ball in the third row.

    Across the Bottom

    • One ball in the bottom point of the rack must be a solid, and the other must be a stripe. Beyond this, there is no required pattern in racking balls in 8-Ball.

    9-Ball Rack

    • 9-Ball uses a diamond-shaped rack and balls one through nine. The one ball goes in the top point of the diamond, on the spot. The nine ball must be directly below it, in the middle of the third row of balls. The rest of the balls can be placed anywhere.

    Warning

    • Be careful with the rack. A broken or bent triangle will not rack the balls tightly.