Whether you are a pool enthusiast or you just purchased for your first table, there are some building blocks that you need to complete your pool table. It is more than just balls and cues, there are plenty of items that you may want to have around. It doesn’t matter if you are just looking to have a relaxing game or hosting a tournament with your friends, you are going to want to have the right accessories to make it a memorable game.
Getting the best pool table accessories are one way that you can improve your game room, because they add that wow factor that will leave a real impression on those who come to play pool with you. If you have been looking for a list of accessories, then you are in the right place. This guide is going to list some of the best accessories that you should have in your arsenal that will enhance your gameplay and the space.
Cue Sticks
Pool cues are the main tools that are used to make precise shots. You should have a set of cues that are different weights and lengths to accommodate different players and types of shots to be made. Having a good cue stick is essential to playing your best game.
The quality of the cue stick will vary depending on the design, materials and craftmanship. In terms of high-quality cue sticks, you may notice that they are made of solid woods and tend to be American made which offers excellent balance and strength. Not to mention that the tip quality is also very important, because it is what provides better control over the cue ball. There are plenty of options out there such as travel cues, house cues, and more.
Traditional Cues
The traditional cues are often made out of various materials such as ramin which is very lightweight and manufacturers will often add weight to the end of the cue stick to provide a more solid feel. However it is more often that the better made standard or traditional cues are made from ash or maple. Ash cues are often going to be in two pieces and are seen to be high quality while maple cues are lighter in color but still of the same quality. If you want a more traditional cue, then the most recommended type is either made of ash or maple, but it all depends on what type of balls and table you have.
Break Cue
Any pool enthusiast will know that the quality of the break is what will determine how the game is played. Most people are not a fan of having a poor break and that is where a break cue comes in. Even though you can take that first shot with a traditional cue, you can notice a real difference with a break cue. They are made to be a power move that will provide you with a great spread. The break cue is heavier and thicker than your traditional playing cue and also have a bigger tip which makes breaking impressive and much easier. Just adding one to your pool table accessory line up is a great way to ensure that each game has endless options.
Cue Stick Accessories
When you start searching the internet for accessories for your cue stick, you may notice that feeling of dread that comes with all those results. We get that. That is why this guide is going to come in handy. You can learn what type of accessories are great for any situation whether playing at home or in a tournament with friends, these accessories are going to help you out.
Rest Sticks
You notice that the your cue ball is hard to reach from any angle of the pool table and you don’t want to lose your balance while taking that shot. Losing your balance can cause you to scrape the cloth on the pool table or even thinking of sitting on the pool table itself can cause damage. That is where a rest stick comes into play. They allow you to make that shot without having to lean too far and lose your balance. They come in different materials and varieties like brass and chrome and many styles too.
Cue Claws
Are you getting tired of holding your cue stick? Is there not a place to clamp on cue holder? Well that is what a cue claw is for. Unlike others you just put it on the edge of the pool table and because of its weighted design, it will stay in place which allows your cue stick to rest safely in one of the notches on it. Then when you are ready to call it a night, you simple pack away your cue sticks and put your cue claw in your bag and you are good to go.
Bridge Stick/Head
You can just imagine how hard it is to reach those difficult shots, even more so when you can’t reach them. Bridge sticks or bridge heads are there to offer you some stability and support when you are trying to get those challenging shots.
Cue Racks
Cue racks are an important accessory for anyone who has a pool table. They need to be strong for storing your cue sticks. They often come in different types like freestanding and wall mounted. If you want a wall mounted one, it will come in two pieces but it will not take up any floor space so there is no worry about tripping over it. However, the free standing one is a great option if you do not want to drill into the walls. You can get them in different materials like brushed steel and even chrome.
Cue Stick Case
Even though it is not a needed accessory, it provides plenty of protection during transport and storage. It is great if you plan to travel and do tournaments at different locations. These cases come in different materials and styles.
Pool Balls
No one can have a game of pool without pool balls. There are different types of balls that you can get such as the more standard colors of red and yellow, but you can also get stripes and spots which is more traditional for American pool.
Pool Table Racks
Pool table racks are an essential for setting up the arrangement of the balls before the game even starts. It makes sure that the balls are going to be tightly packed and ready for the break shot. There are different types for the different types of pool games.
Triangle Rack
The triangle rack is the most basic of the ball racks. This often comes with your pool table when you purchase it. These can come in plastic, wood, or other materials.
Diamond Rack
Diamond racks are used for 9-ball pool. Due to its uniqueness, it is one of the most uncommon ball racks. It does come in different materials and colors.
Magic Rack
If you don’t want to own multiple ball racks for the different pool games like 8-ball, 9-ball, snooker, or even billiards, then you need a rack that is going to be able to adjust to every style. This is why a magic rack is a great option. These racks are made to adjust to the different amount of balls needed for each game, plus due to it being adjustable, your balls will always be tight and your break will be effective.
Billiard Ball Wall Rack
Is it art or just a crafty way to store your billiard balls? Billiard ball wall racks are great because they can be both. This rack is wall mounted and can provide your room with a colorful pop while being an eye catching accent. Plus they are stored so that they stay clean and undamaged.
Chalk And Pouch
No pool table is complete without chalk. Just like with your racks and cue sticks, there are tons of options out there. However, it is best to have chalk that is the same color as the cloth on your pool table, because it is not a good look to have red marks on a green cloth.
The pouch is another great accessory as it keeps your chalk from getting lost. They can match just about any look that you want for your pool table and just hang it off the pockets of your pool table and you are good to go.
Pool Table Lighting
There are many types of pool table lights to make the playing area much easier to see. The more traditional lights are a row of hanging lights with shades that provide focused lighting. However, there are LED, pendant, strip and even energy efficient options now.
Scoreboard
You don’t need this unless you are super competitive and really want to keep track of the score during games, especially in a formal or tournament setting.
Pool Table Accessories Care and Maintenance
Maintaining a pool table is not hard. All you need is some care, knowledge and some of these products.
Pool Table Covers
Whenever you are not playing, be sure to have your table covered. It is best to be used if your table gets a lot of light or if it is outside.
Pool Ball Polish
If you want to keep your balls in perfect shape, then using ball polish will keep them moving across the table like they should but it also will help them to last much longer.
Pool Table Brush
If you want to keep your table clean, then you need a pool brush and many tables come with one included. Regular brushing helps to sweep away chalk, felt fuzz, and debris from the surface of the table, plus it even helps your pool table have a longer life.
Billiard Gloves
If you have sweaty hands while playing or if you want better control, then billiard gloves are going to be a great option. They have an open side for your last two fingers which make them best to support your cue stick. They are also pretty cheap to get and if you get multiples then you can share them with your friends when they come to play.