Quick answer: A jump cue is a special pool cue made for jump shots, where the cue ball hops over a blocking ball. Jump cues are usually shorter and lighter than playing cues and have a very hard tip. A “break jump” cue is a two piece cue that can be used full length for the break, then taken apart at a middle joint to become a short jump cue. Before you buy one, check whether your league or pool room allows jump shots and jump cues.
Sometimes a ball blocks your path to the ball you need to hit. You can kick off a rail, or, if the rules allow, you can jump over the blocker. A jump cue makes jumping much easier. Here is what you should know.
How Is a Jump Cue Different?
| Playing Cue | Jump Cue | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Full length, often around 58 inches | Shorter |
| Weight | Usually heavier | Lighter |
| Tip | Leather, soft to hard | Very hard, often phenolic |
| Main use | Every shot | Jump shots only |
A lighter, shorter cue with a hard tip is easier to swing at a steep angle and sends the cue ball up and off the cloth.
How Does a Jump Shot Work?
A legal jump shot is made by raising the back of the cue and hitting down on the cue ball. The cue ball pushes into the slate, bounces up off the table, and flies over the blocking ball. The hard tip helps the ball pop up quickly.
It is not legal under most rules to scoop under the cue ball. Scooping means hitting the bottom of the ball so the tip digs under it. This can also damage the cloth. A proper jump shot hits down through the ball.
What Is a Break Jump Cue?
A break jump cue does two jobs. It has a joint in the butt. Put together, it is a full length break cue. Take off the back section, and you have a short jump cue. Many players like it because they carry one cue instead of two.
Are Jump Cues Legal?
It depends on the rules you play.
- Many tournament rule sets allow jump shots and jump cues, with limits like a minimum cue length.
- Some leagues do not allow jump cues, or only allow jumping with your regular cue.
- Many pool rooms and bars do not allow jump shots at all, to protect their cloth.
Always ask before you jump.
Do You Need a Jump Cue?
Ask yourself:
- Do your rules allow it? If not, you do not need one.
- Do you often get stuck behind balls? If you play a lot of 9 ball, jump shots can help.
- Can you kick well? A good kick shot is often the safer choice. Learn kicks first.
- Will you practice? Jump shots take practice. A jump cue in a case that never comes out will not help.
Tips for Learning Jump Shots
- Start with an easy jump. Put a blocker a short distance from the cue ball.
- Use a steep angle. Raise the back of the cue, but stay comfortable.
- Grip lightly. Many players hold a jump cue loosely, like a dart.
- Hit down through the ball. Do not scoop.
- Practice on a table where it is allowed. Ask the pool room first, and be kind to the cloth.
What to Look For When Buying
- A comfortable weight and length for you
- A hard tip in good shape
- A solid joint, if it is a break jump cue
- A case that fits it, like a 2×4 case with room for a playing cue and the jump cue
A jump cue is a useful tool for some players and some games. Learn the rules, master kicks too, and if jumping fits your game, a good jump cue can open up new shots.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a jump cue used for?
It is used for jump shots, where the cue ball hops over a blocking ball.
What is a break jump cue?
It is a cue with an extra joint. Full length it is a break cue, and with the back section removed it is a jump cue.
Is it legal to jump in pool?
Many rule sets allow jump shots, but some leagues and pool rooms do not. Always check first.
How do you do a legal jump shot?
Raise the back of the cue and hit down on the cue ball. Do not scoop under it.