Purchasing a pool table is
an entertainment investment. There are many factors to consider in purchasing
a table. Size, price range and style to name a few. Most important
is the size. First measure the game room and determine which size table
will best accommodate your needs. Pool tables come in three sizes. A
7’ table has a playing dimension of 39” x 78”, 8’ table has
44” x 88” and a 9’ table has 50” x 100” playing area. Playing
area is bumper to bumper, therefore the rails must also be included
in measurements. Rails typically are 6” which would add 12” to the
length and width of the table. Pool tables are considerably large, so
proper measurement is important. Consider also the cue that will be
used when determining the size table needed to fit your room. The standard
cue length is 57”. Cues also come in 42”, 48” and 52” lengths. Once the size needed has been
determined, it is time to consider the style. Is there a pre-existing theme in the room?
Will it be decorated by the table selected?
LEGS
Table legs are instrumental
in stabilization of the pool table. There are many styles to choose
from, but most importantly, should be solid wood. Straight legs, curved
legs, ball, claw, Queen Anne and rams horn are just a few of the available
styles. Any of which would be a personal preference. With that in mind,
consider the color of the table. Light, medium or dark. Cherry, mahogany,
walnut, chestnut, oak, or color stained. All are options of personal
preference.
SLATE
The slate is possibly the single
most important factor in considering a pool table. A 3 piece is
the most common and allows for proper leveling of the table. A one piece
slate is rarely seen any more. The slate is available in three thicknesses.
¾” is most commonly used in economy tables. 1” slate is the standard
and is accepted by the BCA for tournament play. The slate should be
screwed directly to the table frame.
FRAME
In shopping for the perfect
table, you will find that some tables have a solid wood frame and some
a MDF frame. Solid or MDF are available in tapered or straight styles.
Either style or wood selection is sufficient in strength and durability
with proper upkeep and care. Quality tables will have a
center beam running the length of the table as well as two cross beams.
The two cross beams are of utmost importance because the weight of the
slate (usually 150 pounds or greater) is distributed from side to side
and not front to back.
RAILS
Like the legs, the rails of
a pool table should also be solid wood. Solid wood is instrumental in
the way a ball rebounds. In installation, the rail should be attached
to the table by bolts that follow through from the frame, the slate
then the rail. This secures the rail tightly for best cushion reaction.
The cushions should be BCA approved K-66 profile. Tack stripping on
the rail is also important. If no tack strip is installed, the rail
may sit uneven on the slate and effect the rebound of the ball.
POCKETS
Another personal preference
is the pockets. Pockets are leather, plastic or rubber. Economy tables
generally are equipped with plastic pockets. Commercial tables usually
have rubber pockets. Most commonly, home game room tables have
leather pockets which can have either a decorative fringe or leather
shield.
CLOSING
As you see, there are many
things to consider when planning your purchase of a home pool table.
The most important of those things being the slate, rails and cushions.
As aforementioned, this is an entertainment investment. As with any
investment, select wisely and you will reap great rewards!
Have fun!