Drop catch

Release a raised flipper at contact so the ball loses speed and gently rolls up the flipper, often giving you a chance to cradle it.

Also called: Drop flip

Variants: Late drop catch, Tip shot

The left flipper drops as the ball arrives, taking off speed so the ball rolls gently toward its base. Source: Abe Flips: Drop Catch at 2:02.

How it works

  1. Raise the receiving flipper before the ball arrives.
  2. Release the button as the ball contacts the flipper.
  3. Re-engage the flipper to cradle the gently rising ball, or follow with a planned shot.
Use it when
A controlled return is approaching the middle or base of a flipper.
Watch for
Releasing early produces a bounce; releasing late sends the ball away with extra energy.
Practice
Start with predictable orbit returns and change only the release timing.