A shot at a table that fits

By Times staff writer
© St. Petersburg Times
published July 26, 2002

The Billiard Congress of America sanctions tournament play on 8-, 9- and 10-foot tables, which are measured by the actual playing surface. There's also an oversized or "pro" table that is two inches wider and four inches longer than a regular 8-foot table.

The BCA permits smaller tables if the width is one-half of length. Robertson produces all the standard sizes as well as a 7-foot table, the size used in most bars.

Room size and playing skill are the major considerations when choosing a pool table. A larger playing surface makes the game more challenging. Most families prefer a standard 8-foot table, says Chad Gainey, director of sales at Robertson.

The billiards room has to be large enough to accommodate both the table and cue sticks. The standard stick is 57 inches long, but cues are also available with 52-inch and 48-inch lengths and can be cut down slightly to allow for smaller rooms.

Minimum room sizes using standard 57-inch cues are as follows:

TABLE SIZE: --- MINIMUM ROOM SIZE:

7' ------------ 13'2" x 16'

8' -------------13'2" x 16'10"

Pro 8' -------- 13'5" x 17'2"

9' ------------- 13'8" x 17'10"

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