Russian pyramid

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Russian Billiards pyramid.

Russian pyramid (also known as Russian billiards or Russian pool) is a variation of billiards that has several differences from Western pool, though the game play is still dominated by attempts to pocket balls.

[edit] Differences from western billiards

Table. Even though sizes range 7' (198 х 99 cm); 8' (224 х 112 cm); 9' (254 х 127 cm); 12' (356 х1 78 cm) the most common variety is the 12'.
Ball size. There are 16 balls (15 white and 1 red) which are larger and heavier than Western billiard balls. There are two regulation sizes: 68 mm and 71 mm.
Pocket size. Pockets are only 2 to 4 mm wider than the diameter of the ball. This makes the game much more difficult and requires greater precision to pocket a ball.

[edit] Rules

Russian billiards ball at a corner pocket. Note the relative size of the ball and the pocket.

There are several variations of Russian Billiards but the two most common are Russian Pyramid and Moscow Pyramid. Both games start with 15 white balls racked in a pyramid as in eight-ball. One player breaks from the baulk line. In Moscow Pyramid the object of the game is to pocket 8 balls. You can also score by pocketing the red cue ball. In this case your opponent must choose a white ball to be taken off the table and the red cue ball is returned to the baulk line. A foul (missing a ball, driving a ball off the table, etc.) is penalized by deducting one of scored balls and returning it back on the table.

All of the above applies to Russian Pyramid. The only difference is there is no set cue ball, at all times any ball may be used as a cue ball. The first player to score eight balls wins the game.

[edit] History

Since 2000, World Championships have been held for Russian billiards. Olzhas Batyrbekov became the first world champion.

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