Important part of the game is the pool table's pocket sizes. They are crucial in determining the ball's ability and bounce accurately from the pockets. They can be as wide as 4.5 inches to 4.625 inches, or as large as five inches depending on what style of pool table you have. American pool tables have pocket openings between 4.5 to 4.625 inches. The pockets in the corners and centre should be 5 to 5 and a 1/2 inches. The pocket should have a vertical angle between 12 and 14 degrees. English pool tables are usually built with pockets that are rounded, giving the ball a better bounce and producing trickier shots.
American pool tables have larger pockets
American pool tables have pockets that are larger than those in England. Pockets on a standard American pool table are usually between three and four inches deep. This makes it easier for larger balls to be thrown. American versions have straight-cut pockets at the middle and not in the corners.
Another difference between American and English pool tables is their shape. An American pool table's pockets are rectangular while those at an English table have oblong pockets. These shapes are determined according to the ball's distance from the pocket. The angle for the corner pockets is about two-thirds of the ball's width. The angle for the centre pockets is half an inch.
An American pool table also runs faster than an English table because the balls used are larger. This is important because English pool balls tend to be smaller and easily get lost in the pockets. English balls react differently due to the high contact point with the pocket pad. American-style tables feature wider pocket openings, making them ideal for competitive eight- and nine-ball matches.
Modern pool tables come with the same dimensions pockets
The size of the table determines the extent of the pocket opening. For example, a 4' table will have a smaller opening than an 8' table. American pool tables also use slightly different pocket shapes than their British and European counterparts. In America, the standard pocket is 142 degrees straight, while an English table features a more rounded shoulder and a more narrow entrance.
You should choose a pool table that is the same size as your current one. Although the table length is approximately seven feet, there are many different sizes. While coin-op or bar tables are usually smaller than this size, these tables are extremely rare. A standard pool table has a drop pocket and a return. The dimensions of the pockets will vary depending on where you live and what era it is.
A pool table's materials can have a significant impact on its performance. American tables often feature thicker sectional slates. These are typically made out of two or three pieces that are sealed with special hard wax. English pool tables are made from 21mm thick slate and only one piece.