PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR CHOOSING A POOL TABLE

1. Measure the size of the room.
2. Make sure that the table selected has been built by a manufacturer known for the quality of his products and service.
3. Be also aware that there are two products that are used on the market to build the bed (or playfield) of the table and that the difference between the two is as great as between black and white or night and day. The first product, called "slate" imported from Brazil, gives to the table a flat surface and much stability because of its weight. The second product is presswood also named as slatium, slatite, slateen or slatex. Don’t let yourself be put off, all these words, derived from the word "slate", indicate that the beds are made from pressed wood.
4. A "slate table" does not necessarily mean quality. Your slate table must also have the following features :

• The slate must be precision-machined level to within 10/1000 of an inch and be guaranteed for a minimum of 5 years.
• The greater part of the rails must rest on the slate.
• The rails and the slate must be bolted together to ensure constant rolling and fast action.
• The cushions must be made of natural rubber, not synthetic rubber. They must be set at the official height to prevent the ball from jumping. To check the quality of the cushion, throw the ball strongly against it and evaluate the rebound.
• The frame of the table must be made with oven-dried laminated wood to prevent warping.
• All pocket openings must comply fully with the B.C.A. specifications (Billiard Congress of America).
• The cloth must be a blend of finely woven wool and nylon to resist normal wear and ensure an excellent game.

Remember that if you take good care of your table, you will maintain its value.

With all this information, you are now a knowledgeable consumer ready to buy your pool table.