For some, even a 7-foot table might be pushing it. But some worry that going any smaller means sacrificing the challenge. So with this article, I’ll answer the question, “Is a 6-foot pool table too small?”
While 6-foot pool tables are generally considered too small for more serious players, they are great for younger players just starting out and for adults who simply don’t have enough space for a larger table. The smaller playing field does make the game less difficult in some ways, but it also creates a new set of challenges that can keep players on their toes.What Kind of Player Are You?
To get an idea of where 6-foot tables stand in the grand scheme of things, it’s helpful to compare them to the other available sizes. For our purposes, we’ll assume that each size is “regulation,” meaning its width is exactly half of its length.
Specialty and Uncommon SizesThe most common sizes are 7’, 8’, 8.5’, and 9’. 7-foot tables are most commonly found in bars (they’re often referred to as “bar boxes”), 8 and 8.5-foot tables are the most popular in-home tables, and 9-foot tables are the standard for professional tournaments.
Shot Length
So let’s address a few of the most common questions people have about 6’ tables.
Most 6-foot tables are between 29 ¼-inches and 31-inches tall, which is the standard height range of all pool tables as dictated by the World Pool-Billiards Association. This means 6-foot tables are typically no shorter or taller than full-size tables. It’s not until you get into the range of tables made specifically for kids (5’ or smaller) that the height starts to go down.
Most 6-foot pool tables come with 6oz., 2.25-inch balls, which is the standard ball weight and size for full-size tables, but some do feature balls with a slightly smaller diameter, either 2-inches or 1 ⅞-inches. Smaller balls will likely also be lighter, usually around 5.5oz.
Clustering
The amount of room you’ll need to play comfortably on a 6-foot pool table will depend on the length of your cues. But as a good baseline, if you’re using a typical 58” cue, you’ll need a room that’s 12’ 6” x 15’ 6”.
What Kind of Player Are You?
One big factor in deciding whether or not a 6-foot table is big enough for you is your ultimate purpose and intention. In other words, are you playing mainly for recreation or competition?
Ball Size & Weight
If you’re a casual player who’s just looking to have some fun, a 6-footer will likely suit your needs just fine. And if you’re used to playing on bar boxes, moving down one size may be a little jarring at first but probably won’t require too much adjustment.
Likewise, 6-foot tables are ideal for kids aged anywhere from 8-18 who want to learn the game as they grow. The learning curve isn’t quite as steep as it is on a full-size table, which makes it easy for beginners to develop their skills and build confidence. They can then graduate to a larger table when they’re ready – without heaps of frustration.
If you’ve already been playing for a while and your goal is to enter tournaments, make money, or play professionally, a 6-foot table may not be the way to go. Pro tournaments are played on 9’ tables, so if you want to compete in that arena, you’ll need to spend plenty of time practicing on tables that size – or close to it.
In Conclusion
The common concern that most players have with smaller tables is that it will make the game too easy. After all, the challenge is a huge part of the fun. But the reality is that while some things are easier on a 6-foot table, other things are actually harder.
Shot Length
The most obvious difference with a smaller table is that sinking shots will generally be easier. The less distance needs to be covered, the less precision and power are required. This also means that bank shots will be considerably easier to accomplish.
Clustering
One characteristic of smaller tables is that the balls tend to bunch together and hang out in clusters, even after a powerful break. There’s just not enough space for them to spread out very far. This isn’t exactly a negative, though – it just changes the active of the game and can even add a new element of difficulty.Bank shots may become necessary to get around clusters; your strategy may need to allow your opponent to sink some of their balls just to get them out of the way; there may be more opportunities for defensive cue ball positioning, etc.
Ball Size & Weight
Worth checking out: If you’re shopping for a solid home table, take a look at the Barrington Billiards 7.5ft Table on Amazon.
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