Quick answer: 6 ball pool is a rotation game played with the cue ball and balls 1 through 6. You rack the six balls in a small triangle of three rows with the 1 ball at the front and the 6 ball in the middle of the back row. On every shot, the cue ball must hit the lowest numbered ball on the table first. You win by legally pocketing the 6 ball, either at the end of the rack or early with a combination or carom.
6 ball plays a lot like 9 ball, but with fewer balls. That makes it fast and great for practice or short matches.
What You Need
- A pool table
- A cue ball
- Balls numbered 1 through 6
- A rack or a way to hold the balls tight
How to Rack 6 Ball
| Row | Balls |
|---|---|
| Front row | 1 ball, on the foot spot |
| Middle row | 2 balls |
| Back row | 3 balls, with the 6 in the middle |
The other balls can go in any order. Make sure all balls touch.
The Break
The breaker places the cue ball behind the head string and hits the 1 ball first. Many players use the same break rules as 9 ball, such as needing a ball pocketed or a set number of balls to hit a rail. Agree on the rules before you start.
If the 6 goes in on a legal break, many players count it as a win, like a golden break in 9 ball.
Basic Rules
- Hit the lowest ball first. The cue ball must contact the lowest numbered ball on the table first.
- Any ball can go in. You do not have to pocket the ball you hit first. If the 1 hits the 6 in, you win.
- Keep shooting as long as you pocket a ball legally.
- Your turn ends when you miss or foul.
These are the same ideas as rotation pool rules.
Fouls
Common fouls include:
- Scratching the cue ball
- Not hitting the lowest ball first
- No ball hitting a rail after contact
- Knocking a ball off the table
After a foul, the other player usually gets ball in hand anywhere on the table.
Push Out
Some players allow a push out on the first shot after the break, like in 9 ball. It is optional. Decide before the game.
How to Win
You win by legally pocketing the 6 ball. If the 6 goes in on a foul, it is usually spotted and the other player gets ball in hand.
Strategy Tips
- Plan two balls ahead. With only six balls, a good plan can run the rack.
- Look for combos on the 6. They can end the game early.
- Play safe when needed. Leave your opponent with no clear shot on the lowest ball.
Why Play 6 Ball?
- Games are short, so you can play many in a session
- It is great practice for 9 ball and 10 ball
- It is easier for beginners than full rack games
Similar Games to Try
If you like 6 ball, try how to play 10 ball for a harder rotation game, or how to play 3 ball pool for an even faster one. For two player ideas, see pool games for 2 players.
The Bottom Line
How to play 6 ball pool: rack balls 1 to 6 in a small triangle with the 1 in front and the 6 in the back middle, always hit the lowest ball first, and win by legally pocketing the 6. Agree on break and push out rules, watch for fouls, and look for combos to win early.
Keep Reading on This Site
- Pool Games for 2 Players: 8 Fun Games to Try Tonight
- Snooker Rules for Beginners: How the Game Works in Plain English
- How to Play Killer Pool: Rules for This Fun Group Game
- How to Play 10 Ball: Rules and Tips for Beginners
- Straight Pool Rules: How to Play 14.1 Continuous in 6 Simple Steps
- One Pocket Rules: How to Play the Pool Game of Patience and Defense
Frequently Asked Questions
How many balls are used in 6 ball pool?
Six numbered balls, 1 through 6, plus the cue ball.
Where does the 6 ball go in the rack?
In the middle of the back row of the small triangle.
Do you have to hit the 1 ball first?
You must hit the lowest numbered ball on the table first on every shot.
Can you win 6 ball on the break?
Many players count a legal break that pockets the 6 as a win. Agree on the rules first.