Watch The Ferrule

FERRULE: "Metal ring or cap that is put around the end of a stick, a tool, cane etc,
to prevent splitting or to give added strength to the designated weapon of choice."
In the case of billiards and pool the ferrule is put on the end of the cue stick. It does double duty. It not only adds strength, but it also serves as a base for the cue tip. It is the tip that strikes the cue ball and sends it merrily on its way to contact an object ball that, it is hoped, will end up in one of the six pockets. And much to the dismay of many pool players, all too often, the pockets remain empty. The blame will be laid on the worn rails, the table felt being worn, the balls being old and dirty, the lighting, the noise and the juke box. Or, in some cases on another player who made a noise, or stood too close to the table. But, never on the shooter who calls himself/herself a pool player. Never, because they are suppose to know what they are doing. Except, mind you, beginners.

The ferrule on the end of a pool cue is like a lifeline to the dominant eye that most players use when aiming. The cue slides back and forth on top of or through the bridge formed by the players hand. And it is at that time, if the players watch the ferrule it will tell him/her what they are doing wrong with the stroke. It will indicate if the grip hand is going up, down, left or right, or short on the backstroke. Or short on the follow through where the stroke becomes a poke and the pockets remain empty.