Do you think all billiard balls are made the same? Are you under the impression that the old standards are the best? While the game of billiards is steeped in history and tradition, and it’s important to keep some traditions alive, some aspects of the game today present new and better options. Whether you’re building your first arcade, considering upgrading an existing arcade, or just want to read up on things that can improve your game, take a look at all three better Tips for buying billiard balls.
1. Billiard ball specifications
This is not the time to experiment with retailers that specialize in anything except game room supplies. Reputable billiard ball retailers will sell products that clearly describe the billiard ball specifications on the box. Read the box or web page that lists the item. Look up some standards for quality assurance. For example, look for some of these terms on the checkout before you buy:
- Endurance
- Tolerance
- standards
- Calibrated
- Consistency
- regulation weight
- regulation size
- Precision scale
- Roundness
2. Billiard ball material
A couple of hundred years ago, billiard balls were made of wood and less than perfect spherical shape. Ivory replaced wood for a while, until millions of elephants were slaughtered and their shells collected to make a set of eight. Different materials were experimented with over the years until plastic came on the scene.
Today, billiard balls must perform. For this reason, most billiard balls are usually made of resin. They are regulated by weight and color. While the professionals use billiard balls fused with phenolic acid, lower grade balls are made of polyester, a form of plastic. Whatever the specifications, material or style, try to keep the sets together, especially the best and highest quality set, because the best cue balls are individually calibrated.
3. Special Novelty Cue Balls
While the color has no technical relationship to the game, choosing a swirly pool ball set over a more traditional looking pool ball set can be a fun addition to your game room. If trick shooting or visual appeal is your thing, then swirling pool balls can add a lot of charm to your game. Are you looking for a gift for that friend who has everything? Here’s a tip: find out what college he went to and buy a set with the college’s logo on it.
Conclusion:
Billiard balls are not all the same! Older standards may not be the best fit for your game! Because billiard balls have evolved over the years, consider the many options before you buy. Check the label for standards before you buy. Know the materials. Consider purchasing an additional set just for fun or as a gift. In addition to remembering these top three billiard ball buying tips, good luck on your next game and have fun!