Masse Shot - Rule of the Week

February 23, 2026 3:42 PM

by San Diego APA

Masse Shot - Rule of the Week

February 23, 2026 3:42 PM

by San Diego APA

Situation: My opponent is attempting a masse shot, they are raising the butt of their cue above their shoulder. My understanding is this is not allowed that they have to keep the butt of their cue at or below shoulder height.

There is no APA rule that limits how much you may raise or lower the butt of your cue when executing a shot. In most situations, shots are judged solely on the outcome of the shot.

Aside from standard requirements, discussion of cue elevation typically arises when a player is attempting to avoid a double hit on a close shot. In those situations, it is commonly recommended that the cue be elevated approximately 30 degrees to help reduce the risk of a double hit. However, this technique does not guarantee that a double hit will be avoided.

There is no APA requirement specifying a minimum or maximum cue elevation for any shot.

Rule: Official Team Manual (OTM) page 82 “Glossary” regarding Double-Hit: https://media.poolplayers.com/TMRB/Team-Manual-English.pdf

You can submit a "Rule of the Week" to the league office:

  • Email to sandiego@apaleagues.com.
  • Email Subject Line must read “SDAPA Rule of the Week”
  • Clearly state the rule/situation and if you know where the answer is found please provide those details.

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