new/used pool table buying tips?

bubby · #1 (**permalink**) 12-29-2007, 05:17 PM

Hello,

I've just started looking for a table since i recently moved. I'm in the market for a 9ft and I'm considering both used an new. For a new table it seems like there are only a few places in Houston (Billiard Factory). I also talked to Ankar's Billiards & Balloons (anybody ever bought something from them?) which seems to have an established business.

My question is what should you consider when buying a new table? I know the premium brands would be safe, but probably more than i want to pay. What should i be looking for other than thick slate, good felt, and a sturdy frame?

Any tips on buying used? Ankar's said they have a gold crown for $3k for delivery and install. They will also strip down to the wood and refinish it as well. Other than asking for references and asking them to let me see his work, is there anything else?

Thanks

RichR · #2 (**permalink**) 12-30-2007, 08:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bubby

Ankar's said they have a gold crown for $3k for elivery and install. They will also strip down to the wood and refinish it as well. Other than asking for references and asking them to let me see his work, is there anything else?

I don't know a lot about the used table market, but this sounds like a great deal to me, especially with the refinishing included. Of course, this is assuming their work is good.

oldaviator · #3 (**permalink**) 01-02-2008, 09:05 AM

You can google to find info on what to look for. The link below also has some info I think is useful. Good luck!

Consumer Guide to Pool Tables

bubby · #4 (**permalink**) 01-03-2008, 10:22 PM

Thanks for the input! Great link oldaviator!

There are a lot of "pool table buyers guides" on google for anybody else who is looking
Pool Table Buyers Guide
Billiards Buyer's Guide
Pool Table Buyers Guide

Bulldog · #5 (**permalink**) 01-11-2008, 08:05 PM

Just registered on this forum. I live in northern Minnesota and have been installing tables for 18 years. I have a lot of experiance with all Brunswick tables billiard, snooker, and especially gold crowns. I love gold crowns! The thing to check for on them is belly sags, and poor or worn slate framing. If the slate framing is very pourus or chewed up it can cause slates to shift due to moisture absortion. When I sell a crown I usually replace the slate framing so i dont have to redo the table again

As for the price. it sounds about right for a used Crown. And of course Simonis is the only cloth for a 9ft Crown

I hope I was of some help