Spots in Pool Money Games: The Breaks, the 8, Games on the Wire
When two players of different skill play for money, the stronger player usually gives a spot, a handicap that makes the game closer to even. Knowing the common spots helps you agree to a fair game, and keeps you from accepting a bad one.
Common spots
- The breaks: the weaker player breaks every rack instead of alternating or winner breaking. In 9-Ball and 10-Ball, that is a big spot.
- The 8-ball (in 9-Ball): the weaker player also wins the game by legally making the 8. "The 7 and 8" or "the 7-8-9" give even more ways to win.
- Games on the wire: the weaker player starts with games already counted. "Race to 7, two on the wire" means they only need 5 more.
- A shorter race: "7 to 5" means the stronger player needs 7 games and the weaker player needs 5.
- In One Pocket: a ball count spot, such as 8 to 6, where the weaker player needs fewer balls to win.
- In 8-Ball: sometimes the weaker player gets ball in hand after the break, or the "last two" (the stronger player must run the last two balls and the 8 in one turn).
Races and sets
Money games are usually played as a race (first to a number of games) or by sets, such as "race to 5 for $50, best of three sets." Agree on the format, the spot, who breaks the first rack and the rules before anyone puts money up. Short races favor the underdog; long races favor the stronger player.
Finding a fair spot
Ratings make it easier. With two FargoRate ratings you can work out a fair race in seconds with our Fargo race calculator, or see the whole Fargo rating chart. Without ratings, ask around: in most rooms, everyone knows everyone's "speed."
Etiquette for money games
- Agree on everything before the first break, and say it out loud.
- Many players put the money up with a trusted third person, or on the light over the table, so there's no question after the match.
- Pay right away when you lose. Your reputation is worth more than any one game.
- Play within your budget. A game you can't afford to lose is a game you'll play badly.
Looking for a game? See the money matches board and the match finder, and learn the lingo in the pool glossary.