Overview

Straight Pool, also known as 14.1 Continuous, is a call shot game using 15 numbered balls and one cue ball.

The objective is to reach a predetermined number of points (typically 150) by pocketing called balls.
Each legally pocketed ball scores 1 point.
Players must call both the ball and the pocket before each shot.
The game is "continuous" because after 14 balls are pocketed, they are re-racked and play continues.

Game Setup

The breaking player must call a ball and pocket for the break shot.

If the called ball is not pocketed, it becomes the opponent's turn.
If the called ball is pocketed, the breaking player continues shooting.
The cue ball must first strike the rack of balls.
To be legal, either a ball must be pocketed or at least two object balls must contact a rail after the cue ball strikes the rack.
If the break is illegal, it results in a foul and a 2-point penalty.
Following a break foul, the incoming player has the option to:
- Accept the table in position, or
- Require the offending player to re-break.
A safety may be called on the break, but the same legality (ball or two rails) must be met.
A scratch or foul on the break (e.g., cue ball off the table, failure to meet rail/ball requirement) results in a 2-point deduction.

Players alternate turns unless they legally pocket a called ball.
Before each shot, announce the ball number and intended pocket.
You don't need to call obvious shots, kisses, caroms, or cushions.
Only the called ball and called pocket matter for continuing play.
If you pocket the called ball in the called pocket, continue shooting.
If you miss or pocket the wrong ball, your turn ends.
Safety shots are allowed - call "safety" and no ball needs to be pocketed.
If a player pockets a ball while calling a safety, it is a loss of turn, and the opponent gets a chance to shoot.

This is the unique feature of Straight Pool that allows efficient scoring.

When 14 balls have been pocketed, play stops temporarily.
The 14 pocketed balls are re-racked in the triangle, leaving the 15th ball and cue ball in position.
The 15th object ball and the cue ball remain in their current positions unless they interfere with the rack.
If the 15th ball is within the rack area, it is placed on the head spot. If the head spot is occupied, it is placed on the center spot; if that is occupied, then on the foot spot.
If the cue ball is within the rack area, it must be placed anywhere behind the head string (in the kitchen), and the player then proceeds with the next shot.
The same player continues and attempts to break the new rack.
Players must call their break shot on the new rack.
This process continues until a player reaches the target score.

Cue ball is pocketed (scratch) or jumps off the table.
No object ball or cue ball contacts a rail, or no ball is pocketed after contact.
Jumping object balls off the table.
Touching any ball with cue stick, clothing, or body.
Double-hitting the cue ball or making a push shot (cue remains in contact).
Shooting before all balls have come to a complete stop.
Intentional fouls (e.g., obviously avoiding legal contact) are not allowed and count as standard fouls.
Failure to play within the shot clock time limit (if enforced in tournament play).

Each standard foul results in a 1-point deduction from the player’s score.
If the cue ball is scratched or jumped, it is placed behind the head string for the incoming shot.
Three consecutive fouls by the same player (without an intervening legal shot) results in a 15-point penalty in addition to the 3 points lost across the three fouls.
The referee or opponent must warn a player after their second consecutive foul.
There is no ball-in-hand (except behind the head string after a scratch); position play continues from where the balls lie.