Tables For Sale

The number one use for a pool table is, of course, to play that game. Tables of this type are equipped with a pocket at each of the four corners, plus one in the middle of each of the two longer sides, where the balls can go. Older models had only four pockets; these make collector’s items (see below). The tables come in many sizes, but the ratio of the width to the length is always two to one. And only two sizes have been approved of for tournament competition— 8′ × 4′, and 9′ × 4½’. There are many variants on the billiards game, including one- pocket, six ball, eight ball, and English billiards.

What to Look For When Buying a Pool Table

If you are seeking to buy a pool table, you should concentrate primarily on the features that are essential for such a table, viz. the playing surface and railing. Choose one that fits into the room in which you intend to place it in, with ample space on all sides (5¾’ is ideal) to allow the players enough room to comfortably handle and shoot with the cues. So be sure and measure the dimensions of that room.

The wood from which a table is made should also come into consideration. The most expensive tables on the Web are made out of three- piece Italian slate wood that is an inch thick, and have the nuts inside the rails. Slate tables can take more abuse than other kinds; also, wooden ones tend to warp over time.

Another factor is the strength of the structure. Tables with slanted sides are in most cases stronger than those with straight sides. Likewise, factory- built frames are stronger than other kinds. How strong a table you buy depends largely on where you will be using it. If you will be playing exclusively in your home, then you can afford to get a cheap table, which will not be used as heavily. If, on the other hand, you are buying your table for commercial purposes, then you will need to buy a thicker, tougher, more costly table. Whichever you decide to buy, the support should be strong enough to hold the upper part.

Finally, there is the question of style. There are two main styles of pool table— the more ornate traditional, and the much simpler, but still quite pleasing, modern style. What color cloth to you want on your table? Conventionally, the color has been green, but now bed clothes for pool tables come in all colors. You should choose a style that fits in with the overall appearance of the room it is in. What kinds of balls do you want to play with?

The legs, too, can come in different forms, some ornate, some simple. The two main kinds are curved and straight; and they also come in different thicknesses. Of the straight- legged tables, some have four legs, while others have the legs on either end connected by elaborate woodwork. It is these parts that make the first impression, so make sure that you give them careful consideration before making your final choice. The stain may be rich and dark, medium, or light. Types of wood used to make pool tables include oak, almond, honey, chestnut, and walnut.

Where to Buy a Pool Table

There are many places where one can buy a pool table, and where a particular person decides to get it is basically a matter of two things— style and cost. Tables of good quality may be bought at ozonebilliards.com for $3,000. Do not buy Brunswick tables; they are marketed as “authentically American,” but being imported from China, they are as authentically un- American as anything can get. At Pool Tables USA you can get tables in a variety of designs and styles, and the pictures at the company’s website give a good idea of how they will look when placed in a room.

The following items should come with the package: cue sticks; balls, a rack to store the cues, a triangular frame for the balls; chalk; and a felt brush for cleaning (see Taking Care of Your Pool Table, below).

It is also possible to get a used pool table. These are often much less expensive than new tables. There will often be advertisements for them in the newspapers, or you can find them on Craig’s List or Ebay. But be sure to buy from a local company, so that you can see the pool table for yourself before deciding whether or not to purchase it. And your chances of getting the table are much better if the seller is anxious to get rid of it, so that you can easily negotiate a price that is fair to both of you. (There are also antique tables for sale, but unless you are an antique collector and wish to decorate your living room, you should stay away from these.)

After you have made the purchase, you will want to have the table shipped professionally, to avoid the risk of breaking it. And once you have brought it home, you should have the table installed, again by a professional preferably one authorized by a major billiard table- making company. Find a company that will provide these services for free.

Taking Care of Your Pool Table

Like any other piece of furniture, a pool table must be taken care of so it will not wear out. The cloth should be cleaned with a felt brush before and after each game to remove debris that would otherwise cause it to get torn. The table also must not be set up where the sun could shine on it; and it should be covered when not in use. Use a vacuum cleaner on it only when that is absolutely necessary, to remove debris that would not come off otherwise.

Given regular care and maintenance, a pool table can be expected to last a whole lifetime— and more.