Quick answer: An open bridge rests the cue in a V made by your thumb and the side of your hand, with your fingers flat on the table. A closed bridge loops your index finger over the cue to hold it in place. The open bridge is easier to learn and gives a clear view of the cue ball. The closed bridge holds the cue tighter, which many players like for power shots and draw. Both are fine. The best bridge is the one that stays steady and lets the cue slide straight.
Your bridge hand is the front end of your stroke. If it moves or wobbles, the cue tip will not hit where you aim. That is why learning a good bridge matters so much. Here is a simple look at the two main bridge types.
What Is an Open Bridge?
To make an open bridge:
- Put your hand flat on the table.
- Spread your fingers a little for balance.
- Raise your knuckles slightly so your hand forms a small hump.
- Press your thumb against the side of your index finger to make a V.
- Rest the cue in the V.
You can raise or lower the cue by raising or lowering your hand.
Pros:
- Easy for beginners to learn
- Clear view of the cue and cue ball
- Easy to change height for follow or draw
Cons:
- The cue can slip out of the V on hard shots
- Some players feel less control on power shots
What Is a Closed Bridge?
To make a closed bridge:
- Put your hand on the table with your fingers spread.
- Curl your index finger up and over the cue, making a loop.
- Touch the tip of your index finger to your thumb.
- Rest the cue on your middle finger, inside the loop.
- Keep the loop snug, but loose enough for the cue to slide.
Pros:
- Holds the cue in place on hard shots
- Many players like it for breaks and power draw
- The cue is less likely to slide sideways
Cons:
- Harder to learn at first
- Your finger can block your view a bit
- If the loop is too tight, the cue will not slide smoothly
Open Bridge vs Closed Bridge at a Glance
| Open Bridge | Closed Bridge | |
|---|---|---|
| How it holds the cue | Cue rests in a V | Finger loops over the cue |
| Easy to learn? | Yes | Takes practice |
| View of the shot | Very clear | A little blocked |
| Good for power? | OK | Very good |
| Good for soft shots? | Very good | Good |
When to Use Each One
Many players use both:
- Open bridge for soft shots, finesse shots, and shots where you want to see the cue ball clearly.
- Closed bridge for breaks, hard shots, and big draw shots.
Some great players use only an open bridge. Others use a closed bridge on almost every shot. There is no single right answer. What matters is that your hand stays still and the cue travels straight.
Tips for a Steady Bridge
- Keep your hand flat and firm. Press down a little so your hand does not move.
- Find the right distance. Many players put their bridge hand about six to ten inches from the cue ball. Closer gives control. Farther gives more stroke.
- Keep it still after the shot. Leave your bridge on the table until the cue ball hits the object ball.
- Check your height. For draw, lower the bridge. For follow, raise it a little.
Other Bridges to Know
- Rail bridge: for when the cue ball is near a rail. Your fingers rest on the rail.
- Elevated bridge: for shooting over another ball.
- Mechanical bridge: a tool for shots you can not reach. See our page on how to use a mechanical bridge.
Watch the Lesson
The video below shows how to stand and how to make a bridge hand, so you can copy the hand position.
Practice both bridges on easy straight shots. After a while, you will know which one feels best for each kind of shot. For stance help, see our page on pool stance for beginners.
Watch: How to Stand and Make a Bridge Hand (Pool Skool with Ted)
Keep Reading on This Site
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- Pool Stance for Beginners: 6 Steps to a Solid, Balanced Stance
- How to Chalk a Pool Cue: 6 Simple Steps and Common Mistakes
- Billiard Lessons for Beginners: 7 Steps to Start Right
- How to Find the Balance Point of a Pool Cue in 3 Easy Steps
- How to Practice Pool by Yourself: 7 Simple Drills for Solo Practice
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an open or closed bridge better in pool?
Neither is always better. The open bridge is easier to learn, and the closed bridge holds the cue tighter on power shots.
Do pros use an open bridge?
Some do and some use a closed bridge. Many players use both depending on the shot.
How far should my bridge be from the cue ball?
Many players use about six to ten inches, but it depends on the shot and what feels steady.
Why does my cue slip out of my open bridge?
Your V may be too loose or the shot may be very hard. Press your thumb in tighter or try a closed bridge.