|
Price
Ranges
Least Expensive:
The price range reflects the quality and workmanship
at this level; the least expensive level is considered a toy. This
table is not made for precision play. The playing surface is made
of artificial materials commonly referred to as "perma slate"
or "honey comb". The toy table is designed for you to take
home, assemble, adjust and play. The materials utilized in manufacturing
this level of table are inferior, therefore, the guarantee, if available,
is very limited and the life of the table is short-lived (two to three
years).
Economy Level: This level table will feature a ¾"
slate playing surface; however, in many cases, manufacturers will
use a "one piece slate" that is virtually impossible to
level to a dead flat playing surface. Another common way for a manufacturer
to cut costs is to use short slate. Short slate does not extend completely
under the top rail. Short slate is picture framed in wood, holes are
drilled in the wood and the rails are fastened to the wood, not the
slate. This will result in poor rail alignment, rail vibration and
ultimately poor table play. The cabinet material and top rails are
typically made of particleboard covered in low-grade laminate or vinyl.
They appear beautiful in the beginning, but Be Aware, particleboard
will decay or crumble over time. Low-grade laminate or vinyl surfaces
can scratch or tear easily. Support bracing components are commonly
made of assorted scrap materials. The cushions and hardware are typically
of the lower grade. You can expect fair table play at this level.
The normal warranty is a one-year limited warranty. The average life
expectancy of an economy level table is five to seven years. Economy
level tables are commonly priced by themselves. Make sure the price
you are quoted includes delivery, installation, cloth and playing
equipment necessary to play "Be Aware".
Mid Range Level: This level of table has been the most popular.
Many different styles are available, to compliment any décor.
This range of tables will feature a "full-size" three-piece
genuine 1" slate playing surface. The slate will have a full
support pad. The interior cabinet will be supported by both cross
and center beam supports. The top rail will be made of cross laminated
hardwoods, the cushion rubber will have a K-66 blended gum rubber
profile. (The Billiard Congress of America has approved this cushion
for tournament play for over 35 years.) Genuine color blended pockets
add to the design at this level. The frame cabinet, blind aprons and
legs will be constructed of density board covered in oak veneer or
kiln dried hardwood lumber. The legs will have a large 4" x 4"
foot-plant to ensure transfer support strength to the slate playing
surface. The mid range level offers excellent playing characteristics,
attractive designs, and should be considered a lifetime investment.
If the manufacturer has not cut corners on his product, this range
table will feature an "Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee".
Custom Level: When purchasing this level of table, you should
expect only the highest grades of materials, designs and quality workmanship.
This range table will feature exotic veneers, or exotic hardwoods.
This level table should have all the construction features of the
mid range table with higher-grade materials used in all facets of
the manufacturing process. Unique features and intricate designs are
standard at this level. Although they add to the cost, it truly sets
them apart from the average pool table. When shopping for this level
of table, ask a lot of questions, especially "why does this table
cost more than the mid-range?" Although it should be obvious,
make the salesperson explain the differences. This range table should
be considered an "heirloom" that can be passed down from generation
to generation. It will feature an "Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee".
|
