There are two kinds of tabletop games: 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 usually uses three balls; pool uses nine to sixteen.
Billiards is a game in which you use a long cue stick to hit three balls in a row. The original game was created in the 15th century, and it has since evolved to a modern form. This game is commonly referred to as "pool", but they are very different.
Pool, on the contrary, involves hitting dozens of balls onto a pool table with a cuestick. These balls are generally smaller in size than the ones used for billiards. They are usually two and a third inches in diameter. Depending on what game you are playing, you may also need nine to fifteen of these object balls. Some players play with one red ball and others may have seven or more.
The aim of billiards, is to score the most points within a set time. It requires a lot of practice, but it is a very challenging game to master. Here are some common pool shots to get you started. These and other useful strategies can be found on Bar Games 101.
Although a pool tables can be smaller than those used for billiards, they should still be large enough that you have enough room to play all of your games. A pool table should be at least 3.5' by 7' in size. 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 helps the balls to travel faster and also slows them down.
Although both Billiards and Pool are indoor sports, they have quite different rules and characteristics. For example, pool can be played at a smaller table with only a few pockets, while billiards can be played at a larger one with no pockets. You will also notice that the cue sticks can be different sizes. You will need a cue that has a longer shaft, and a tip with a thinner tip to match the dimensions of the table.
Regardless of which game you decide to play, you will need a set of balls and a cue stick. Billiards can be played on either a snooker and a carom table. Snooker is more difficult and requires a specific set of tools. It can be very fun and many people prefer to play pool at home.
Both pool and billiards are very popular in the United States. President Grant is believed have installed the White House's very first pool table.