How to Rack When Playing 9 Ball Pool

The game of 9 ball is a little different than the classic 8 ball game. The set of pool balls used is different, and the game play is generally somewhat faster. When racking for 9 ball, use the following information to get a good "breakable" setup.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Throw out the stripes. The only striped ball you'll be using is the 9. Balls 10 through 15 are not used in the 9 ball game. Set them aside and out of the way.

2. Get out the triangle and put it on the pool table.

3. Rack the balls in a "diamond shape" as follows: 1 in front, 2 and 3 behind, 4, 9, and 5 in the middle row (with 9 in the middle), 6 and 7 behind, and then 8 at the tail position. You should have a diamond with the 9 ball in the exact middle.

4. Put your hands in the triangle. You have to take care with racking for nine ball as there is empty space inside the triangle. Put your hands in the open spaces to prevent balls from moving while you bring the triangle forward.

5. Bring the triangle forward slowly, making sure to keep the racked pool balls in their positions.

6. Take away the triangle without disturbing the balls. Look at the diamond shape. If any balls are out of line or not touching each other, you'll have to go back and rack them again.