A Buyer’s Guide to Pool Tables

Want to buy a pool table but don’t know where to start? Here are a few tips on what to look for!

1) Check the brand of the table. Some companies manufacture in the USA while others import from overseas. For the most part, American made tables are sturdier and higher quality. However, there are high quality imported tables available too; for example, Brunswick and Presidential produce their pool tables overseas. As for American made pool tables, look for brands like Connelly, Olhausen, Buckhorn, or Golden West. Buckhorn and Connelly pool tables were actually produced right here in Arizona!

2) What should you check when buying from a private seller? Pool tables are listed for well below market value every day by people who need them gone quick. It’s easy to get enticed by the low price but oftentimes these pool tables have been neglected over the years and need hundreds of dollars of repairs to play well.

First, check the condition of the cloth (felt). Look for burn marks, spills, etc. Some people are under the impression that the cloth has to be destroyed to disassemble the table but that is not true. It is very simple to reuse it without sacrificing quality of play, so if you are satisfied with the current color and condition, feel free to reuse the cloth.

Second, check the condition of the bumpers. Press the rubber on the bumpers with your fingers to see how much life it has left. If the bumper is hard and has no give, it will have to be replaced; A repair which can run you around $300-400. These first two things go hand in hand; If the cloth on the table is really old, then the bumpers probably will be too. If you buy a table that ends up needing both cloth and rubber replaced, expect to pay at least $550-$700. That will be on top of standard delivery/setup costs plus the cost of the table.

Third, check the condition of the pockets. Check for any tears in the leather, along with making sure it isn’t rotted. A new set of leather pockets start at $100 and can go up to $300! It also can be hard or even impossible to find a perfect match to the old pockets.

When buying a table from us at Rebuilt Billiards, rest assured that we take care of all of this for you. Our tables come with new bumper rubber, new felt, high quality pockets, and polished wood! All our tables are high quality and in tip top shape!

3) Is the table 1 piece or 3 piece slate? The cost to move a single slate table will be way higher than a 3 piece table. If the table is older, it is more likely to have 1 piece. Bar style pool tables will also have 1 piece slate. Even if the price is good, you will pay a fortune to have it moved and installed at your location. If you are having trouble finding a 7 foot table in your style and price range, reach out to us! We would be more than happy to work with your budget! We are constantly getting 7 foot tables in stock and our top priority is making you happy!

Lastly, and this should go without saying, do not buy a non slate table! They are extremely low quality and will never bring you the satisfaction or joy you should expect when shooting pool.

Here at Rebuilt Billiards we have some of the best prices in the Valley! Our tables come with delivery, setup, new cloth, accessories, and more! We are your one stop shop for pool tables! Give us a call today!