Handicapping

One pocket is a very flexible game for players of different skill levels, and many variations are used to handicap a game. The stronger player, for instance, might need 10 points to win versus 6 points for the weaker player (called a 10 6 spot ). Also, as the break shot is so critical in the game, spotting someone the breaks can be a very strong equalizer.

Handicapping one player by allowing points to be scored on bank and kick shots only is a particularly challenging spot, as the free scoring opponent has a much greater variety of options for both balls to pocket and safeties (defensive positioning of the cueball after a shot) to play against the opponent.