American Pool Tables vs. English Billiards Tables

Buying a pool table for your home is a large investment that will cost several thousands of dollars for a quality product. During the decision making process, people often wonder if they should select from American pool tables or choose from the British style of tables, which most people know as billiard pool tables. The differences between the two styles of tables are not great, but before spending that kind of money, it is good to be clear about what distinguishes these two types of pool tables.

The main difference between American tables and the British version is their size and also of the pool balls that are used with them. Some might say that the English tables are actually a smaller cousin of the American tables. The English pool tables were first introduced to the British pubs a little more than forty years ago in the 1960's. Because of the more compact spaces in most gamerooms and lounges in Europe as opposed to the available space in America, the tables needed to be a bit smaller in order to be able to fit them into the pubs of the day.

The most common standard American pool tables measure in at 9 feet wide by 4.5 feet long. The British tables run smaller with the regulation size being 7 feet long by 3.5 feet wide. There are also two other commonly seen sizes of the British pool billiard tables, which are 6 feet by 3 feet and 8 feet by 4 feet.

Because of the difference in size of the standard American pool tables versus the English tables, some of the pool table accessories are also accordingly sized differently as well. This is important because the amount of playing area is reduced considerably on the English tables which affects the play.

On American tables there is more room for the balls to spread out and this reduces the occurrence of balls "clumping" which can make it more difficult to get a nice clean shot at a pocket. At the same time, with a table that is two feet longer than its English counterpart, there are many more instances of long shots that need to be made. Such longer shots are particularly challenging for beginners and often a game can become very drawn out when players are chasing the last couple balls around the table.

To help ease the problem with space on the felt, the pool balls that are used with the English tables are smaller with a diameter of two inches. This compares to the balls used on American tables which are two-and-a-quarter inches in diameter. Of course, the pockets that are built into the American style tables are comparatively larger as well in order to accommodate the larger size of the pool balls.

Another difference that you will find between playing on American tables as opposed to English pool tables is in the pool cue sticks that are used. The English pool cues use a smaller cue tip which measures eight to nine mm across. The typical cue tips that American pool players are accustomed to using on their cue sticks are 12 to 13 mm.

When it comes right down to it, the biggest difference between American pool tables as compared to their English counterparts is their size. If you have adequate space, then most experienced pool players would suggest that you buy the larger American table. The general rule of thumb is that the bigger the table, the better the game.

Billiard Tables Offer Variety of Games

In one form or another, billiard tables have been a part of recreational pursuits for centuries. While often called pool tables in some areas of the world, they are a common sight in pubs, bars, taverns and game rooms. Billiard pool tables have also always had a place in private homes, but they are enjoying a surge in popularity these days. These specialty tables can be used to play a wide variety of different billiard-type games and are a great way to gather people around for camaraderie and friendly competition.

One common concern people have when thinking about buying a billiard table is if they have enough space to fit one into a spare room or a family room. While everyone's idea of the perfect spot to play pool is different, in most cases you will want to have enough room for more than just the table. You must also have ample clearance around it to be able to wield your cue stick effectively. Billiards is a social game, and you should select a space in your home that can accommodate comfortable seating, as well as places to hold food and beverages that people often enjoy while shooting pool.

Most standard American billiard tables measure nine feet by four-and-a-half feet, with a slightly smaller version that is eight feet by four feet, and the most common length for the cue sticks is 57 inches long. To have enough clearance, so that walls and other obstacles won't interfere with shots, the minimum room size needed would be 14 feet by 18 feet. This would be a "bare minimum" space and does not account for seating and mingling room.

If you just don't have that much space, you could opt for one of the smaller sized tables. There are billiard pool tables as small as six feet by three feet. In conjunction with a smaller pool table, you could also use shorter cues which are available as short as 36 inches. The combination of these two factors would mean that you could conceivably play pool in a room as small as 9 by 12 feet.

However, there is a drawback to trying to squeeze smaller tables into a room that won't hold a full size pool table. Once you get used to playing on smaller billiard pool tables and with shorter sticks, you will find it quite challenging to be able to play well on the more common size tables that you will find at bars, pool halls, and in most other homes. In addition, if part of your idea for buying a pool table is to entertain friends and have social gatherings with it as the central activity, then you will find that other people will have trouble adjusting to what many think of as mini pool tables.

Once you have determined the size of the table that will fit into your home, you next need to look at the quality of the materials before you make your decision. Most quality pool tables have a slab of slate underneath the felt. This provides a very stable, even, and good quality surface. The best tables actually have three slabs which can be adjusted independently to assure the ability to properly level the surface.

Since slate is such heavy material, a slate pool table bed can weigh up to 800 pounds. Because of this, the construction of the billiard tables frames must by very sturdy and of high quality to support that weight and assure that the table playing surface is always level. Look for metal-to-metal construction for the joints and solid cross members that are bolted securely.

Mini Pool Tables Great Alternative For Small Spaces

Lots of families these days are looking for good activities to participate in and enjoy together. And, this is becoming more and more important to parents as they try to engage their children in things that will draw them away from the computer or video games, which tend to isolate them instead of helping them integrate with the family. Playing billiards together as a family can be one great way to accomplish this end. For families who don't have the room, or the budget for a full size pool table, mini pool tables can be an excellent option.

Mini tables make good small gameroom accessories and also are popular for kids rooms, dorm rooms, and company break rooms. There are even models of these mini billiards tables that are high-end and which would fit right into the office of an executive who wants a bit of diversion during the day or a interesting conversational item.

There are many different styles of mini pool tables available from both general retailers and also specialty stores. There are many choices in quality, materials, and sizes that all affect the pricing. Most all of these mini tables feature a playing surface that is covered with the same felt used on standard-sized pool tables, giving them both the look and the feel of a real billiards table.

While the diameter of pool balls for standard size American pool tables is 2.25 inches, the balls for mini tables are 1.5 inches in diameter. The balls for the mini tables are numbered just like the standard billiards balls.

Just as the balls are smaller, the pool cues are also shorter in length. However, the length varies somewhat depending on the manufacturer. There are different standards of sizing set for the mini billiard tables and for the larger billiard pool tables. In general, the cues for these mini tables are between 36 and 42 inches long.

The two most common sizes of mini pool tables are 44 inches long by 29 inches wide and 36 inches long by 20 inches wide. Some models have short legs making the overall height about 8 inches and these models are intended to be used on a table top. There are also free-standing models that stand at waist height and which have legs that are either foldable or collapsible for easy storage in small spaces.

Even for those who have a full size pool table, mini tables can come in handy. Many times when the adults are involved in playing a competitive game of pool, the kids want to join in the fun. But, depending on the age, it can be very difficult for young children to see well enough to play and to handle the full size cue sticks. With a mini pool table nearby, the kids can practice their skills and look forward to the day when they too can play at the "big table." And, mom and dad can also relax knowing that the kids won't damage the expensive full size table.

Almost all mini pool tables are sold as part of a complete package that will provide all the pool table accessories that you will need to start enjoying miniature billiards with the family. The accessories that come with the tiny table include the cue sticks, usually two, the cue ball and the colored ball set, the triangle to rack up the balls, the chalk and the brush for cleaning the felt. Just add the players, adequate pool table lights, some good background music, some yummy snacks and you can kick off a new tradition for family game nights.

Outdoor Pool Tables

More people than ever are enjoying the sport and the skill of playing pool. And, more and more families are interested in getting billiard pool tables for their homes to provide a wonderful array of games that everyone in the family can enjoy. Unfortunately, there are many families who just cannot find the room for a full size pool table in their house, but fortunately for them, outdoor pool tables can fit the bill.

Outdoor tables are specially designed and manufactured to be able to stand up to and endure the challenges of the being outside in the environment and subject to the elements of nature. They are built to be tough and sturdy, to resist mildew, mold, and the various pests that might try to invade the structure or surface. Outdoor billiard tables are virtually impervious to humidity, rain, snow, sleet, sugary beverage spills and can even handle roughhousing.

There's no use trying to play a game of pool on a pool table that has a less than perfect surface. Warping, marring, severe scratching and other damage to the surface has a huge impact on how the balls move and react during play, making it impossible to predict the behavior of their movement. For this reason, it is extremely important that outdoor pool tables have very good weather proofing protection.

While most billiards pool tables that are used inside have a slate surface that is covered with pool table felt, the outdoor tables can be made from a variety of different materials which are treated for outdoor use. Slate is a very dense and durable stone that is the preference of billiards players around the globe. When used as the surface of an outdoor pool table it is covered with a special sealant, such as epoxy, to provide weatherproofing and prevent damage to the surface.

Another common type of material used for the beds of outdoor tables is concrete. In these types of billiards pool tables, special fibers are also mixed in with the concrete to add strength and to help it weather better. Resin pool table beds are also used in the outdoor models. The resin surfaces are made of a high-density polymer that is one to two inches thick and which is extremely weather resistant.

The side rails of outdoor tables are most commonly made out of either a nylon or an acrylic fabric. These types of materials will not allow any liquids to get past the surface. With this material, the surface of the pool tables can be cleaned with soap and water, or with warm water that has a bit of chlorine added. Manufacturers expect that with proper care, the surface of the table will last five to ten years before it needs to be refurbished. The frames of most outdoor tables are made of aluminum, polyethylene or fiberglass and will last for decades.

To offer even more use for outdoor tables, some manufacturers make models with a top that easily converts to other uses. This allows you to get more use out of your investment by being able to play table tennis when you have had enough of billiards, or use it for other games or as a large craft or project table. Since outdoor billiards tables start at about a thousand dollars and go up from there, people appreciate the versatility that this provides.

Many people wonder if playing pool on outdoor pool tables is the same as playing on the more familiar indoor tables. Users report that there can be some small differences in how the balls move, spin and bounce off the bumpers because of the different surface materials used. However, most people say that playing on an outdoor pool table is almost exactly like playing in a stuffy, smoke-filled bar room, except for the smoke.

Pool Table Accessories Make Your Gameroom Complete

These days the game of billiards is becoming more and more of a family endeavor because games played are fun for of all ages. People are finding creative ways to work them into their homes and enjoying the fun and camaraderie that a friendly game of pool can promote. While people often take great care in choosing the right pool table, sometimes they overlook the pool table accessories that are essential.

Your accessories are important because they will help to ensure that you and your guests enjoy the best pool gaming experience possible and will also help to assure the good condition and long life of your table. Some of the most important billiard gameroom accessories you will need are the ball rack, pool cue rack, chalk for your pool cues, pool table lighting, a pool table cleaning brush and a pool table cover. Also, most people appreciate having some type of score-keeping accessory. A rule book nearby with different games to learn is also a valuable item to have on hand.

One of the most basic of all the pool table accessories is the chalk. Pool cue chalk prevents the tip of the cue stick from slipping right off the cue ball when it is struck. There is nothing more frustrating than having the perfect game-winning shot all lined up and then blowing the shot because you forgot to chalk up and the cue tip slid off center.

To keep such tragedies from happening, make sure that you always have plenty of chalk when you are taking inventory of your pool table supplies. Remember to use the chalk throughout the game. There is a reason why you seen the pros chalking up all the time. Some popular brands of cue chalk are Silver Cup Chalk and Master Chalk. Look for non-lead chalk since the chalk dust will linger in your home and the lead could end up becoming an unwanted health risk.

A pool table brush is also extremely important and must accompany any table. A brush will help to keep your pool table felt clean, well groomed and tight. In addition to helping to make sure that tiny particles of debris don't interfere with the play, regular brushing will help extend the life of the pool table cloth and give it a beautiful finish.

Accessories also must include a good quality pool table cover. Pool table covers keep the surface of the table protected from spills and scratches when not in use. It also keeps dust from collecting on the felt which makes it easier to keep the pool table felt clean and in good condition for many years of enjoyable use. Even tiny pieces of debris on the surface of your pool table can result in an errant ball and a missed shot, so keeping the surface in pristine condition will help everyone enjoy the game.

It is important to have a safe and secure place to store the pool cue sticks so that they don't become warped or otherwise damaged. A pool cue rack will protect and secure the sticks. Often pool table accessories will come in a matching set that will include the cue rack, triangular ball rack and storage rack for the balls.

Pool Table Lights Illuminate the Game, Add Style

When you are setting up your family room or gameroom for a pool table, one of the most crucial gameroom accessories that you'll need to consider are the pool table lights. It is impossible to play a good game of pool in low light conditions and the placement of lights over and around the table can make a big difference in the play and in how much enjoyment people get from the game.

Table lights need to be hung directly over the pool table and it is important that the light is perfectly centered. Experienced pool players use the reflections of the pool table light off of the balls to help them to properly line up their shots. If the pool table lighting is not properly centered, then it can make it more difficult to find the angles and make the shots. For beginners, using the reflections can also be a very helpful guide as they learn the geometry and angles necessary to become a good player.

It is important to use pool table lights even with other ambient lighting in the gameroom in order to make sure that there is good and consistent visibility across the whole pool table. Also, if there are other bright lights in the room, then they should be turned off whenever possible. The reason for this is that the other lights often shine into the players' eyes which is distracting and also causes more reflections on the balls, which can be confusing.

There is a wide variety of table lights to choose from that will fit into and enhance any decor. Of course, there are popular styles that are seen in the bars and pool halls that are emblazoned with logos of beer and soda companies. If you want your gameroom to have that pub-like feel, then that kind of lighting for your pool room is probably a good way to go.

For those who are wanting a more family-friendly or a more sophisticated look in their family room or their gameroom, then you will find a great selection of choices at any lighting specialty store. In fact, there are even stores that specialize exclusively in pool table lighting and lighted gameroom accessories. If you can't find such a specialty store in your area, then there are many online retailers who boast of huge selections that will help you to find just the right pool table light to fit your budget and match your style.

The most traditional models of table lights are long fixtures that have three lights to help provide adequate illumination over the length of the table. However, there are also many quality options in pool table lighting that have two or even just one light. Tiffany-style stained glass lamp shades have been popular over pool tables in home and pubs for generations and come in just about every color combination and design pattern imaginable. Today, many people are opting for more clean and modern looks for their gameroom lighting and there are many choices for the urban and contemporary tastes as well.

When hanging the pool table light, it is important to hang it at just the right level. Pool table lights needs to be high enough from the pool table felt to cast light evenly over the entire table surface. At the same time, it must be low enough so that players are not bothered by the glare. The recommendation is to hang pool table lighting approximately 32" above the surface of the pool table.

Pool Tables Bring People Together

We are in a time when an increasing number of people find that they spend a lot more time looking at screens of computers and televisions than they do looking into the faces of other human beings. Many parents are concerned about this trend and are looking for activities that can bring the family together for fun and interaction. As a result, pool tables have become more popular as additions to family rooms because they provide a fun activity that everyone in the family can enjoy.

Pool tables are a considerable investment and even some of the cheap pool tables will set you back thousands of dollars. A high-end pool table or an antique billiard table can easily cost over ten thousand dollars. But, for some people only the best will do and the reality is that a pool table is a status symbol for some, a design statement for many, and an expression of wealth and tradition for others. At the same time, for countless other people, the pool table is simply a way to enjoy a fun and engaging sport that can be shared for friendly competition.

The types of pool tables that are available run the gamut from the simple and purely recreational at the low end, to high-quality slate pool tables choices in the mid-range. At the high-end are the ornate billiard tables which are as much fine furniture as they are recreational equipment.

High-end tables can be customized to fit into any decor and they are usually the centerpiece of a billiard room. They usually have intricate carvings around the edges of the table, have massive carved legs, are made of the best quality woods and covered in the best pool table felt available. In many ways, this category of billiard pool table is considered an investment and because of their quality and durability they last through generations and can become family heirlooms.

Other tables that are designed strictly for recreational activities are quite simple in design and while sturdy to withstand the rigors of the game, they are not as substantial, nor as difficult to move, as the high-end tables. They are made of more basic materials, but they must have the proper support structure so that the surface of the table stays level at all times. There is nothing worse than trying to impress your friends with your pool cue skills and finding yourself at a table where the balls seem to have a mind of their own because the table is not level.

While billiards is becoming a more popular activity, the biggest obstacle to putting tables in more homes is the space that is required for them. The dimensions of a standard size pool table are four-and-a-half feet by nine feet and are commonly referred to as a "4x9." Then you need adequate space all around the table, not only for walking, but also to be able to properly maneuver your pool cue to make the shot. Realistically, you should have a 3 foot buffer on all four sides of the table. In addition, you need room for seating, and people often enjoy being able to sit at a table or bar while visiting and waiting for their turn.

For people who don't have the room for a full size pool table, but want to enjoy the benefits of pool playing for family fun, outdoor pool tables are a viable option for many. The billiard tables built for out-of-doors use are weatherproofed and they are intended to stand up to harsh outdoor conditions. While these pool tables are designed to be used outside, they must be protected so that the surface does not become damaged.

Snooker Tables Evolved from Billiards Tables

Snooker is a game that has been played since that end of the 19th century. Legend tells us that the game was named after British Army cadets who carried the nickname of "snookers." They started making changes to a familiar billiards game called Black Pool and this developed into the game of snooker. The snooker tables of today are likewise a variation of the common British billiard tables and there is a variety of billiard games that can be played on these slate slabs.

The games that are played on the snooker tables of today, were derived from the billiard pool table games that originally were played on the English billiards pool tables. So, in order to clearly understand the development of the modern version of the snooker table, looking at the history of billiards tables is a good place to start.

The actual origination of billiards is rather vague and difficult to pin down. Dating back to the fourth century B.C., there is evidence of games that were played on the ground, which were similar to billiards and croquet. It seems that for convenience, such games were brought to a table-top level which also required a raised edge to keep the balls from falling to the ground. For centuries, as the tables evolved to use the materials common to today's tables, variations were also incorporated to accommodate the size of a room. In the early 19th century, the 12'x6' became the standard size by a consensus of manufacturers.

Over the years, the makers of billiard pool tables started to cover the surface with cloth to protect the playing bed and also to make the action of the balls behave in a more standard manner. The cushions and the pockets were added along the way and went though many different changes before a standard was set. Slate beds were introduced in the 1830's and are still used in modern snooker tables.

Burroghs and Watts was a well-known manufacturer of high quality snooker tables, and in the early 1900's they introduced the option of steel backing of the cushion rails. This innovation greatly improved the action and the speed of rebounding balls, and more importantly, provided a level of consistency in rebounding. The inconsistency of rebounding had previously frustrated billiards players of all types until this improvement was introduced. Any standard snooker table built today will feature this innovation.

In today's snooker tables, the size of the pocket openings are made according to templates which are owned by the Governing Body of World Snooker. These templates are required to be used for any snooker table utilized in professional snooker tournaments. However, many casual players find the small size of the pocket openings frustrating, so tables built for home use or for snooker clubs will usually have pockets with wider openings.