There are two types of tabletop game: Pool and Billiards. Both involve hitting a ball using a cuestick. The difference between billiards and pool is in the size and number of balls used and the way the balls are positioned on the table. Billiards generally uses three balls, while pool can have anywhere from nine to sixteen.
Billiards consists of hitting three balls at once with a long cuestick. This game was developed from an original invention in the 15th century. This game is often mistaken for pool.
Pool, however, is a game in which you use a cue to hit numerous balls at a pool tables. These balls are usually smaller than those used in billiards. They are typically two and a half inches in diameter. Depending upon the type of game, there may be nine to fifteen other object balls. Some players only use one red ball while others have seven or more.
Billiards is a game where you aim to score as many points as possible within a limited time. Although it takes a lot of practice to master, it can be a challenging game. Here are some common pool shots to get you started. Bar Games 101 provides more information and helpful strategies.
While a pool table can be smaller than a billiards table, you should always make sure that it is large enough to hold all the balls you will need. A pool table should have a minimum of 3.5'x7" dimensions. If you want to play pool more effectively, you should get a table that measures at least 5ft by 10ft.
In addition, you should make sure that you have a billiards table that is covered with cloth. The cloth allows the balls to travel more quickly and also slows them down.
Billiards, like Pool, are indoor sports. But they have different rules and characteristics. For example, pool is played on a smaller table with a few pockets while billiards is played on a larger table with no pockets. Also, the size of the cue stick is important. You will need a cue that has a longer shaft, and a tip with a thinner tip to match the dimensions of the table.
Whatever game you decide to play you will need a set ball and a cue stick. Billiards is played on a snooker, carom, or billiards table. Snooker requires more skill and a special set of tools. Because it is so much fun, many choose to play pool in bars or at home.
Billiards and pool are both very popular in the United States. President Grant is believed have installed the White House's very first pool table.