Long-Butt Meaning in Billiards

A long-butt is an extra-long cue stick used for shots that are very far away. It is much longer than a standard cue and often requires a special bridge. You use this tool when the cue ball is in the middle of a full-size snooker table. For example, a player reaches across the wide green felt to strike a distant ball. The added length allows you to maintain a proper stance without leaning awkwardly. Most pool halls keep a long-butt near the larger tables for public use. It can be difficult to control because the extra weight changes the balance of your stroke. You must move slowly and steadily to keep the long shaft from wobbling. Using a long-butt requires a steady bridge hand or a mechanical rest for support. It is a specialized piece of equipment that solves the problem of table reach. Many beginners find it heavy and cumbersome at first. With practice, you will learn to appreciate the extension it provides during difficult racks. It is a staple of traditional English Billiards and snooker.