Understanding the No-Tick Rule

What is it?

The No-Tick Rule protects center guards early in the end. If a stone touching the center line in the Free Guard Zone (FGZ) is moved before the sixth stone of the end, the non-offending team can reset the stones.

Why it matters

  • Keeps center guards in play longer
  • Encourages more strategic shot-making
  • Makes the game more exciting and tactical

When it applies

  • Only before the sixth stone of the end
  • Only if the moved stone was touching the center line in the FGZ

If the rule is broken

The non-offending team can choose to:

  • Remove the delivered stone and reset the moved stones
  • Or leave all stones where they ended up