Learn the essential snooker skill of Screw Back aka Back Spin, Bottom Spin, Deep Screw and Draw Shot with this comprehensive guide.
The Screw Back aka Back Spin/Bottom Spin/Deep Screw/Draw Shot refers to the technique of making the cue ball spin backward after it strikes an object ball.
Being able to screw the cue ball back is crucial in controlling the position of the cue ball and setting up for the next shot. Also, it's one of the most coolest looking shots in snooker.
💡 The screw back shot can also be used to avoid potting the object ball.
How to Screw Back in Snooker?
To successfully execute a screw back shot, you need to consider the following:
Common Mistakes:
A Screw Back is achieved by striking the cueball below center, which causes it to spin backwards.
A good visualisation technique to help you aim at the correct point on the cue ball is to imagine a clock face on the cue ball.
The very bottom of the cue ball is 6 o'clock. This is where you need to strike the cue ball for back spin.
💡 Make sure to level your cue parallel to the table by lowering the bridge rather than raising the butt of the cue.
How hard you need to hit the cue ball depends on the following factors:
💡 Instead of focusing too much on power, concentrate on achieving a smooth and straight follow-through.
After you've hit the cue ball, it's important to follow-through with your stroke. This means continuing the motion of your cue forward, rather than stopping abruptly.
To achieve maximum screw back, you'll need to follow-through a bit more than usual by letting your elbow drop as your grip will follow-through to the max.
💡 A good cue action follows a pendulum like swinging motion i.e. the backswing and follow-through distance should be equal.
Practice Tips:
The screw back shot is an essential part of any snooker player's arsenal. It allows you to control the position of the cue ball after contact with the object ball, setting up future shots and taking control of the table. By following the guidelines highlighted above, you're on your way to produce the best screw back shots you've ever made.
Related Posts