What to Look for in Shuffleboard Tables
Do you want to buy the best shuffleboard table? Shuffleboard is a popular game played both at homes and bars. It is a great accessory in your home’s game room. Choosing the best shuffleboard table is not easy since there is a wide range of products available on the market. You need to consider a few factors while buying the best shuffleboard table. Refer to the buying guide given below.
Buying Guide
There are many best shuffleboard table products available on the market. You buy a shuffleboard table but it is not up to the mark. You have wasted money, as a result. So, it is always better to consider some factors to buy a perfect shuffleboard table.
Size of the shuffleboard table
According to the standards, the shuffleboard table should be 20 x 22 inches wide and long. However, there are different sizes, some are small and others are large. The smaller size of the shuffleboard table is 8 feet long.
Experts recommend going for a mid-size shuffleboard table as it fits many spaces and delivers a great full-scale game. The size of the table varies. For instance, small tables are 9 to 12 feet, mid-size tables are 14 to 16 feet and full-size tables are 18 to 22 feet.
The size of the table depends on your personal preferences and the space available in the gaming room.
The thickness of the Shuffleboard table
Many shuffleboard tables come with different thickness measurements. For instance, if you buy a traditional shuffleboard table, typically, it has a 3-inch thickness, which allows for a reliable and stable playing field. Also, you can sand it using a machine in case the table requires refinishing. Previously, most tables were made of hard maples. However, today, you will find tables made of soft maples. However, we don’t think this is a bad thing.
Canadian soft maple playing fields are largely used by people in the U.S and Canada. It is because of the advanced cutting-edge technological finishing techniques. Moreover, polymer finishing material is also stronger as compared to the traditionally used lacquers. Polymer finishing provider smoother finish with extra protection from scuffs, dings, and dents. Let us talk about the material in detail in the following sub-heading.
The material of the shuffleboard table
The majority of the shuffleboard table products we find on the market are made of wood material. However, there are different types of wood such as oak, mahogany, maple, and birch.
Generally, a shuffleboard table with a solid block surface is made of maple, oak, or mahogany, which are hardwoods that provide durable feel. In contrast, you can find affordable shuffleboard tables made with MDF and laminate veneers. These are lightweight materials but less durable.
The material used on the surface of the shuffleboard table is important for smooth playing. When you have a surface made of sturdy wooden material, it can be damaged by dropped pucks. Also, during the game, the table can experience high impact. Therefore, the durability of the material is important.
Moreover, you can choose a table with a surface made of the soft maple material, which is economical. However, it is more reliable when this material is finished using a polymer. While maple, Russian birch, North American maple wood, and Canadian soft maple are some of the popular materials for the surface of the shuffleboard table.
Likewise, oak, birch, maple, and mahogany are considered the best materials. You need to choose something strong and sturdy. While all these materials are good, we recommend a shuffleboard table made of solid hardwood because they are stronger and not prone to damages from dings and dents.
Scoring System of the Shuffleboard table
You will find a few types of scoring systems. Some are integrated with the shuffleboard tables. Some boards do not come with a scoring system. You have to buy it separately. The manual slide scorekeepers, abacus scoring units, and electronic attachments are the popular scoring options. Shuffleboard tables with abacus scouring units are affordable.
The Cut of Surface Pieces of the Shuffleboard Table
It is important to consider the cut of the playing surface, especially the pieces in it. If you observe closely, you will see that the table’s surface is made of different wooden pieces. These are glued and laminated together with different techniques. It is important to consider a table that is 20 inches wide and has a 3-inch thickness.
These are standard quality shuffleboard tables. Keep in mind that there is no refinishing for the thinner surface and this is why they don’t provide much stability as thick tables. You will also find tables with reduced width of planks. These tables are typically low in price. Usually, they have 15 to 16 inches wide planks.
Over the years, the manufacturing process for the shuffleboard table has been evolving and changing considering the preferences of the users. So, you need to choose a thicker table and make sure there is proper finishing. We understand that it is not possible to check the material or finishing of the shuffleboard finishing.
However, it is a good idea to refer to the label of the table so that you know what type of material is used, how many planks are there, and what finishing material is used by the manufacturer. Talk to experts so that you choose a reliable and stronger table. If you want to buy a reliable shuffleboard table, it is important to consider the factors given above in the buying criteria.
Frequently Asked Question – FAQs
Q: What is the best size shuffleboard table?
When it comes to choosing the size of the shuffleboard table, experts recommend the table length to be 22 feet. Although this is not possible in every situation that is fine. You can also buy a small shuffleboard table. However, it will affect your game.
Q: What makes a good shuffleboard table?
Before you make a decision, you must consider the size of the table. Some players go for 16 and 20 inches. However, the recommended size is 22 feet. Also, the material of the shuffleboard is also important. Make sure you choose a stronger one.
Q: How much room is needed for a shuffleboard table?
You need a little more room for personal taste. However, it should not be more than 3 feet. Some experts say that 2 feet are enough.