Funny 8 Ball Tricks

Jumping

• Try jumping the 8 ball over another ball, or during gameplay, the cue ball over the 8 ball. You can perform a jump shot by applying downward pressure with the cue to make the ball "jump" off the felt. Give the trick some flourish by jumping the 8 ball over multiple balls or at different angles. Jumping can also be a strategic move during games, but some games prohibit jumping as part of the rules.

Rapid Fire

• Line up five balls in a row, midway between one corner pocket and the other at the same side of the table. Position the 8 ball to the side of the rail. Strike the 8 ball with the cue lightly so that it slowly rolls toward the pocket. Then, in rapid succession, use the cue to quickly knock in the adjacent line of balls before the 8 ball reaches the pocket. All six balls must be sunk (with the 8 ball last) for the trick to be successful.

The Double Shot

• Position the 8 ball near the bottom rail and the cue ball on the middle diamond. Aiming between the two diamonds, propel the cue ball to the right side of the 8 ball. Hit the cue ball along the right side, giving it enough English to knock the 8 ball into the corner pocket. Immediately pull the 8 ball out and place it next to the same pocket. If you do the trick correctly, the cue ball will ricochet off the rail, down the felt and back with enough force to pocket the 8 ball again, all in a single shot. Practice with the right angle, force and English until you get it right.

Coin-in-Cup

• Place a short, wide-mouthed glass cup on the perimeter of the table but off the felt. Place a quarter on the edge of the felt in front of the glass. The goal of this trick is to strike the edge of the table with the 8 ball in such a way as to propel the quarter up and into the cup. Practice your technique until you master this difficult-but-doable trick.