A pool table can be a very good investment decision. If you’re planning to obtain a pool table you’ll want to keep some fundamental information at heart so you can purchase the right one.
Pool Table – Performance Levels
The first thing you should take note when buying a pool table is the performance level. There are four basic levels. The introductory level is the least expensive level. It is model for teenagers and non-competitive games. This is the type of pool table that you buy for your home if you are not an ardent pool player.
The next level up is also an economy level and is great for leisure play. The second rank of pool tables are for individuals who take pleasure in playing pool and want a good performing table lacking the expenditure of a table more suitable for aggressive levels.
The 3rd level up is thought to be a mid-range table and they tend to be more eye-catching and they also work better. This type of pool table is a long-term investment and not something that you’ll have to replace after a couple of years of being used.
The top level is a customized or professional pool table. They are ideal for competitions and expert pool players. This level of pool table is the highest and the very best.
Pool Table – The Size Matters
Guys, size does make a difference when it relates to a pool table. A regulated pool table will likely be twice as long as it is wide and generally is seven, eight, or nine feet long. The 7 foot long table is what you find in most pubs, the 8′ long table is what you’ll find in nearly all households and the 9′ pool table is what you’ll find in nearly all competitions.
If you will be purchasing a pool table for the home or company you will probably want to either get a 7 foot or an 8′ table unless you are planning to have competitive billiards players or contests at your business.
Pool Table – Playing Surface
Basically your pool table will either be slate or non-slate. Slate pool tables are the ones utilised in competition. Slate is heavy-duty and exceptionally stable. Rather then being one large chunk of slate it is usually three pieces of slate that are individually leveled for optimal play.
Non-slate playing surfaces include: Slatron; Permaslate; Honeycomb and Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF). These surfaces are cheaper and are used in lesser grade pool tables and non-professional pool tables.
Pool Table – Added Features
There are a few other things to consider when getting a pool table too. A few of them can be imperative to you and some may not be.
A few of the other things to consider include:
· Fabric (can be a wool/nylon blend or synthetic nylon)
· Rails (can be particle board or wood)
· Cushions (must be K-66 style for BCA approved play)
· Cabinet/Apron (can be solid wood, MDF, veneers, etc)
· Pockets (can be basket or auto-return balls)
In the end the pool table you pick out will depend on your wants, room and budget. It is essential to know precisely what you’re purchasing and for what purpose. If you’re purchasing a pool table for professional play you’ll need to make certain it’s entirely BCA approved. If you happen to be buying it for recreational purposes you have a bit more flexibility in the options you pick used for your pool table.