The document below contains a summary I compiled of all the different published 8-ball rules, particularly the nine most important rules that vary from one source to another. Links to official rule sources and citations are included for all variations where available.
I compiled this summary because everyone thinks they know the real rules, but in fact almost no one plays by the same rules. Even those who play leagues or tournaments and think they play by a standard set of rules usually have a personal variation. And anyone who grew up playing bar rules has a much different idea of the rules that vary by region and bar and are mostly unwritten.
Agreeing beforehand on the rules above will help prevent disputes. But it’s easier said than done. It would be best if a set of rules could be agreed upon before two players compete for the first time, such as if both could simply agree to play by BCAPL rules for example (one of the best defined). But the reality is that almost no one knows any set of published rules, not even the most widely used or well-defined ones, and not even (usually) if the player has played under the rules for years in a league. So the only alternative is to discuss all important rules up front.
Some of the rules to settle up front are:
- What shots have to be called and how?
- Ball in hand anywhere on the table vs. in the kitchen?
- How to rack?
- Are table scratches in effect?
- Are intentional defensive shots and safeties ok?
- Does 8-ball on the break win?
- What if you scratch on the break?
- How are solids vs. stripes determined? Open table after the break? Still open if a ball is made on an illegal shot?
- Is scratching while shooting the 8-ball loss of game? Or only if the 8-ball is pocketed?
- Many other rules might come into play such as double-hits and pushes, accidentally moving balls, jumping, winner breaks, who racks, and so on.
Personal Experiences Profile - John Daleiden 