Every year billiards becomes an increasingly popular sport in Russia. Many people are starting to think about buying a billiard table, for example, for a club, entertainment complex, bar or cafe, for home or cottage, and are faced with the problem of choosing the right and high-quality billiard table.
Billiard tables are conventionally divided according to two parameters: the game for which a pool table intended, and the price-quality ratio. In Russia, the most popular Russian billiards are Pyramid, American Pool and Snooker. The playing field dimensions of a table for Russian billiards range from 7 to 12 feet, for pool - 7, 8 and 9 feet, for snooker - 10 and 12 feet. Billiard tables can be divided into categories: amateur, professional and exclusive.
Billiard room size
When choosing a billiard table, it is necessary to correctly calculate its size in order to ensure a minimum or comfortable size of the billiard room. To calculate, you can use special tables, or you can independently calculate the size of the billiard table using the following formula: the size of the playing field of the table + the length of the cue on each side (for a pyramid - 155-160 cm, for a pool - 145 cm, for snooker - 150 cm).
| Table size in feet | Playing field size | Minimum room size |
| 5 feet | 138 cm x 67 cm | 434 cm x 322 cm |
| 6 feet | 168 cm x 82 cm | 464 cm x 352 cm |
| 7 feet | 198 cm x 99 cm | 494 cm x 382 cm |
| 8 feet | 224 cm x 112 cm | 524 cm x 412 cm |
| 9 feet | 254 cm x 127 cm | 584 cm x 457 cm |
| 10 foot | 284 cm x 142 cm | 615 cm x 472 cm |
| 12 feet | 357 cm x 179 cm | 690 cm x 510 cm |
Materials for making tables
The main parts of a classic billiard table are the frame (frame or base), the base of the playing field (graphite slate or chipboard), legs (or supports), sides and pockets. Traditionally, the frame of a billiard table is made from solid wood hard rocks wood (ash, oak, alder or beech) or high-density MDF, since this material is less sensitive to humidity and temperature changes.
It is not recommended to make billiard tables from pine, fir, spruce and others coniferous species wood, since these species are very unstable to changes in humidity, temperature and mechanical stress.
You can combine: the base and supports are made of MDF, the sides are made of MDF or solid wood. The ideal billiard table is made entirely of MDF (both in terms of playing characteristics and appearance).
MDF is a medium density board, a harmless and durable material used in the furniture industry all over the world. The binding element in MDF is lignin, which is released when wood is heated. We especially note that MDF boards do not contain any substances that are harmful to health. epoxy resins and phenol. MDF boards have a homogeneous composition and high density, which makes it possible to obtain a variety of product profiles through mechanical processing of the source material. Excellent performance characteristics, closeness in quality and ecology to natural wood and, finally, the ability special processing and surface embossing makes this type of product especially attractive for the production of high-quality furniture products and billiard tables. Another feature of MDF boards is their resistance to various fungi and microorganisms, which makes MDF products hygienic and safe in everyday life. MDF boards are an excellent material for the production of environmentally friendly, durable, strong and beautiful furniture and billiard tables.
Exclusive billiard tables are made from solid wood. To save appearance The billiard table is repeatedly coated with high-quality polyurethane varnish.
Billiard slabs
The main requirements for the base of the playing field are: Smooth surface and a good roll of the balls. This is the basis of the game. The best material Natural graphite slate "Ardesia" is considered to be used for the base of the playing field. For billiard clubs and gaming halls, it is recommended to use billiard slabs with a thickness of only 45 mm with horizontal mounting sides to the slab, which significantly dampens vibration during play, and the playing characteristics of such tables (rolling of balls, rebound) are much higher than tables on a thin stone slab.
All major competitions are held on tables with slate playing surfaces. For inexpensive billiard tables of the amateur series, 16 mm thick laminated chipboard is often used as the basis of the playing field.
Billiard cloth
The “mission” of the billiard cloth is to provide an absolutely “smooth” surface of the billiard table, along which the ball will roll exactly in accordance with the given direction. Cloth varies in thickness, hairiness and density. Cloth also varies in price (depending on composition and manufacturer). The world leader in the billiard cloth market is the company “Iwan Simonis” (Belgium). For economy class tables, Mirtex cloth is most often used.
Pool table side rubber
The billiard ball should bounce equally evenly from all sides of the table. The side parts of the table bear the main impact load. Special rubber (chips) with a specific profile for different types of games (Russian Pyramid, American Pool, Snooker) are glued onto the sides of the billiard table. The correct installation of rubber on the sides directly affects the playing characteristics of the billiard table (rebound, trajectory of the balls, roll of the balls).
Billiard table pockets
We also pay special attention to the pockets. The main criterion for assessing quality is the geometry of the pocket. When it comes into contact with a pocket, the ball must not change its trajectory. Various shape pocket depends on general style billiard table and types of billiards. It is worth checking that the player cannot cause physical harm to himself during contact with the pocket. It is, of course, better to choose a table, like all specialized equipment, with the help of a specialist.
We hope that our recommendations will help you choose a billiard table of appropriate quality with for a long time operation.
Those who are interested in billiards are familiar with the names pool, American, snooker and carom.
Snooker became most popular in England. While in Russia the majority prefers Russian billiards. A distinctive feature of this type of game is the size of the holes. They are almost the same size as the balls themselves. Europeans traditionally prefer the famous American billiards.
Billiards is a serious game that has its own character. It manifests itself in tactical thinking, in the style of play, as well as in the special atmosphere that reigns in the billiard room. This game has not only its own history, but also a special style of furniture, surroundings consisting of details such as mirrors, stools and tables.
We’ll talk about billiard tables and rooms for them today. Let's figure out what size the table is for different types billiards
Pool table dimensions 
Before purchasing a billiard, you need to consider the area of the rooms that will be allocated for the game. It is also necessary to choose furniture of a suitable height.
If we consider classic version, That billiard table height ranges from 0.8 to 0.82 m.
But if the chosen game turns out to be Russian billiards, then a special rule applies. In this case, the position of the pockets in the corners is important; the opening should be 0.76 mm, and the middle pockets have a opening of 82 mm.
Reference. If we consider billiards as a professional sport with competitions, then the table should correspond to a height of 82 cm.
Size of pool table and billiard field
American
For pool gaming field can be from 6 to 9 feet. Moreover, the 9-foot version has 6 legs, and all other parameters have only 4.
- Great option, converted to meters, is 2.54(length)*1.27(width).
- The smallest - 1,8 * 0,9 .
Russian billiards
The Russian pyramid implies numerous table options.
- The smallest at 6 feet it has 4 legs, its dimensions are 1.8 meters * 0.9 meters.
- Biggest 12 feet is offered on eight billiard legs. Its dimensions are 3,5 * 1,75 .
- There are also intermediate option table, where the dimensions of the playing field are 2,24 * 1,12 , the size corresponds to 8 feet. This option is available with both four and six legs.
You can also purchase products for the Russian pyramid in 7 feet, and in 9,10,11. Such intermediate dimensions allow optimal placement of furniture in a billiard room of any size.
Snooker
For the game of Snooker, the sizes of billiard tables are initially larger: 10 and 12 feet. Dimensions in meters look like 2.84 x 1.42 And 3.5 x 1.75.
The possible balls also depend on the size of the table. So, a 60.3 mm ball is suitable for tables of 6-8 feet, but a 68 mm ball is suitable for a 9-foot product.
Very often, customers ask for small-sized billiard tables to set up a billiard room in a medium-sized room.
Advice. If you have a small table, you should choose shorter cue models. They do not affect the quality of the game, but are ideal for small billiard tables.
Billiards room 
Probably the most difficult question for those who are going to create a billiard room is the definition optimal sizes for her.
How to calculate the minimum area
Please note that the area of the billiards room will depend on several factors.
- Which game do you prefer?
- What kind of furnishings are planned in the room?
- How many participants are usually planned to be invited to the game?
If you want to install additional items in the room, for example, a set upholstered furniture, then you will have to include all these components in the footage.
If you are designing a room for a gaming club, where there will be several gaming zones, then it is worth remembering important rule. The distance between billiard tables must be at least 1 meter 20 cm. This is the bare minimum that will allow all players to feel comfortable.
Calculation example
Thus, the average common value of the cue length for Russian billiards is 1.62 m, for American pool 1.48 m. To this size it is necessary to add an additional 15 cm for the swing when striking. Having calculated all the parameters, we can assume that the optimal distance from the billiard table to the wall in Russian billiards should be at least 1.75 m, for playing pool 1.61 m.
Room area for tables of different sizes
There is a certain table that shows the sizes of billiard tables and the corresponding area
rooms.
Weight matters
To simplify the dimensional units, it is better to measure the playing field in feet. But it is also worth considering the possible weight of this furniture, the technical ability to lift and carry it to the desired floor.
- A 12 foot pool table can weigh up to 1 ton 250 kg. At the same time, it stands on 8 billiard legs, which evenly distribute the load.
- Tables with 6 legs usually reach a weight of 800 kg.
- The most compact tables on 4 legs weigh around 400 kg.
Correspondence between the dimensions of the table and the room
| Table size | Billiard room size (m) |
| 5 feet | 4.65 x 3.85 |
| 6 feet | 4.80 x 3.90 |
| 7 feet | 5 x 4 |
| 8 feet | 5.25 x 4.15 |
| 9 feet (pool) | 5.55 x 4.30 |
| 9 feet | 5.95 x 4.7 |
| 10 foot | 6.35 x4.9 |
| 11 feet | 6.95 x5.20 |
Thus, it stands with special attention calculate every detail when arranging a billiard room. In this case, not only all available space is taken into account, but also its features, the shape of the room and specifications, allowing you to place a heavy billiard table.
If you have not yet made your choice, but are just about to purchase a billiards table, think about what you prefer to play. There are several types of this game. The most popular here are: Russian billiards (aka Russian pyramid), American pool and English snooker. There is also carom, but it has not become widespread in Russia. Each game has its own rules. Therefore, the tables for each of them have certain standards and differ in height and size.
What size should I choose for a billiards table?
Traditionally, tables are measured in feet. 1 foot is approximately equal to 0.30 m. The width of the field is equal to half the length.
Each game has its own nuances. The size of a traditional table for Russian pyramid and snooker is 12 feet, for pool - 9 feet. Unfortunately, not all of us have a room suitable for installing a full-size table, so there are commercial models of smaller sizes. The smallest playing field size is 6 feet. Children's pool tables are available from 4 feet.
By the way, in this section of the site you can visit our online store.
Selecting a room
If you have already decided on your gaming preferences, you should pay attention to the size of the room in which the billiard room will be equipped. Often the desire to buy a billiard table bigger size, is initially limited by the size of our room. After all, billiards is a game that requires a lot of open space. Putting it in a cramped room means initially depriving yourself of a full-fledged game.
When calculating the length and width of the room, the parameters of the playing field of the billiard table itself, the length of the cue used to play the game, and the distance required for the swing are taken into account. Also add here the space needed for the furniture that will be in the billiard room: tables, ottomans or sofas for guests.
Calculation table for room sizes for installing billiard tables:
| Table size (ft) | Playing field size (m) | Table size (m) | Room size (m) | ||
| For Russian billiards | For the pool | For snooker | |||
| 6 | 1.80×0.90 | 2.1×1.2 | 4.7×3.8 | 4.7×3.8 | - |
| 7 | 1.99×0.99 | 2.3×1.3 | 4.9×3.9 | 4.9×3.9 | - |
| 8 | 2.24×1.12 | 2.54×1.42 | 5.1×4.0 | 5.1×4.0 | - |
| 9 | 2.54×1.27 | 2.84×1.57 | 5.8×4.5 | 5.4×4.1 | - |
| 10 | 2.95×1.47 | 3.25×1.75 | 6.2×4.7 | - | 5.8×4.3 |
| 12 | 3.50×1.75 | 3.85×2.05 | 6.8×5.0 | - | 6.4×4.6 |
In addition to the difference in size, billiard tables differ in weight. The weight of the table depends mainly on what material the playing field is made of. If you plan to use the table in country house or in the country, then you need to pay attention to ensure that the weight of the billiard table does not exceed permissible load for the floor on which you plan to install it.
The weight of a pool table depends on the slab from which the playing field is made. The slab can be made of laminated chipboard, synthetic granite or slate stone. Each of these plates has its own advantages and disadvantages. The slabs differ in thickness (minimum 16 mm and maximum 45 mm). A difference of a few millimeters can add an extra 100 or more kilograms to the table. The thicker the slab, the more securely your table is installed. However, the choice depends on existing restrictions (weight, size, price).
Billiard table weight table:
Weights are approximate and vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Below are more detailed recommendations for each type of table.
Dimensions of tables for Russian billiards
Traditionally, pool table sizes are shown in feet. Most small table for a Russian pyramid 6 feet, the largest is 12 feet. The ratio of the length and width of the pool table should be 1:2. Height - 800-820 mm. Only billiard tables measuring 12 feet (3.85 x 2.05 m) are certified by the Billiard Sports Federation for official competitions.
The size of a pool table depends on the game for which it is intended. Sports billiards is divided into two main varieties: Russian and American, each of which requires special billiard tables. But Russian and American billiards are distinguished not so much by billiard tables as by the philosophy of the game itself. If used as a comparison card games, then Russian billiards is more like preference, and American billiards is more like poker.
For Russian billiards, tables with a playing field size of 8 to 12 feet are designed; for American pool, billiard tables with a playing field of 7-9 feet are required.
Having chosen a quality billiard table, it is also important to correctly calculate its size so that it fits into the room for which it is intended.
Before purchasing a billiard table, you need to determine which table is right for you. First of all, you need to determine the room where the table will be installed and select the optimal size table from the table:
Table size
feet
Game size
fields, m
Minimum size
premises, m
2.10 x 1.05
2.40 x 1.20
2.70 x 1.35
2.70 x 1.35
3.00 x 1.50
3.60 x 1.80
5.10 x 4.05
5.60 x 4.40
5.70 x 4.35
5.90 x 4.55
6.20 x 4.70
7.20 x 5.40
Billiard room size
The size of the billiard room can be comfortable or minimal.
The comfortable size of a billiard room is calculated as follows: the size of the billiard table + the length of the cue (for a pyramid 160 cm, for an American pool 150 cm) + the distance you need to swing. Usually this distance is 25-40 cm. With this arrangement of the billiards, nothing should interfere with your play.
The situation with the minimum size of a billiard room is somewhat more complicated. Usually minimum size calculated by the formula: size of the playing field + length of the cue. Here the size of the playing field is taken into account, and not the size of the billiards. In this case, it will be inconvenient to hit from the board along a perpendicular trajectory, but you can afford to buy a larger table.
The minimum size of a billiard room does not include furniture.
Sometimes some elements included in the design of a house or billiard room (columns, corners, railings, etc.) create inconvenience when playing. In this case, you can resort to using shortened cues, which are used in dead zones where you cannot play with a regular size cue.
Formula for calculating the size of Russian billiards:
cue length + pool table length + cue length.
Cue lengths for calculation:
- Russian billiards - 160 cm,
- American pool - 150 cm,
- Snooker - 147 cm.
The length and width of the tables is determined by the distance between the opposite elastic sides.
Tables for Russian billiards 4.5 x 9 and 6 x 12 ft (1382 x 2764 and 1870 x 3650 mm)
Pool tables 4 x 8 and 4.5 x 9 feet (1229 x 2458 and 1382 x 2764 mm)
Snooker tables 6 x 12 ft (1870 x 3650 mm)
Pocketless tables (carom, chips) 4.5 x 9 and 5 x 10 feet (1382 x 2764 and 1536 x 3072 mm)
Billiard table height:
The playing surface of a table for Russian billiards should be at a height of 820 mm from the floor. The height of the snooker table is 850 mm, and the height of the pool and pocketless tables is 750 mm.Pocket solutions:
For Russian billiard tables: Corner pocket 74 - 76 mm. Average pocket 80 - 82 mmFor pool tables: Corner pocket 134.8 - 150.4 mm. Average pocket 137.6 - 144 mm
For snooker tables: Corner pocket 88.4 - 92.8 mm. Average pocket 104 - 106 mm
Requirements for the playing surface of the table:
The playing surface of tables must be horizontal. The slope at the edges of the table should be within 0.5 mm in the longitudinal direction and 0.25 mm in the transverse direction. If several plates are used in the design of the table, then they must be joined together with an accuracy of 0.125 mm. When a concentrated load of 90 kg is applied at the center of the table, the deflection should not exceed 0.75 mm. The playing surface must be able to withstand a ball weighing 170 g falling from a height of 180 cm, and no dents or cracks should appear on the plate. The plates must be securely fastened to the table frame with screws or bolts. The slab(s) are covered with a special billiard cloth, which must be well stretched.Billiard balls:
Balls for Russian billiards: Weight: 280 - 290 g. Diameter: 68 mmPool balls: Weight: 156 - 170 g. Diameter: 57.6 mm
Snooker balls: Weight: 142 - 156 mm. Diameter: 54.4 mm, 52.8 mm.
Carom balls: Weight: 198 - 213 g. Diameter: 62.0 mm, 60.8 mm, 62.4 mm
Billiard cues:
The cue should be straight and balanced.Cue for Russian billiards: Length: 1500 - 1600 mm. Weight: 650 - 700 g
Pool cues: Length: 1500 - 1520 mm. Weight: 500 - 560 g
Snooker cue: Length: 1400 - 1450 mm. Weight: 450 - 480 g
Carom cue: Length: 1350 - 1500 mm. Weight: 480 - 520 g
