There are two types of tabletop game: Pool and Billiards. Both games involve hitting a ball with a cue stick. The main difference between pool and billiards is the size and position of the balls. Billiards typically uses three balls while pool may use nine to sixteen.
Billiards involves using a long stick to hit three balls consecutively. This game was developed from an original invention in the 15th century. Many people consider this game to be the same as pool, but the two are actually quite different.
Pool, on the other hand, is a game that involves using a cue stick to hit dozens of balls on a pool table. These balls are generally smaller than the ones used in billiards. They are typically two and a half inches in diameter. There are also nine to fifteen object balls, depending on the type of game. Some players play with one red ball and others may have seven or more.
The goal of billiards is to score the highest amount of points in a given time limit. It takes practice but is quite challenging to master. Here are some common pool shots to get you started. Bar Games 101 offers more information about this and other helpful strategies.
Although a pool table may be smaller than a table for billiards, it should still be large enough to store all your balls. Pool tables should measure at least 3.5 feet by 7 feet. If you want to play pool more effectively, you should get a table that measures at least 5ft by 10ft.
You should also make sure your billiard table is covered in cloth. The cloth will help the balls travel faster, but also slow them down.
Billiards, like Pool, are indoor sports. But they have different rules and characteristics. Pool, for instance, is played on smaller tables with few pockets. Billiards on the other hand is played at larger tables with many pockets. The cue sticks are also different in size. You will need a cue that has a longer shaft, and a tip with a thinner tip to match the dimensions of the table.
You will need a set or balls and a cuestick, regardless of the game you choose to play. Billiards can either be played at a carom or snooker table. Snooker is more challenging and requires specific tools. Because it is so much fun, many choose to play pool in bars or at home.
American pool is very popular. The White House's first pool table was installed by President Grant, it is believed.