Bumper Pool Table Styles

Stand alone, 3N1, and build your own

Bumper pool is an unusual form of pocket billiards played on its own unique table. The term bumper pool derives from the twelve bumpers located at various points on a bumper pool table. These bumpers can block shots and create a unique strategic playing field. Because bumper pool is a very casual game and bumper pool tables are smaller than standard pool tables, bumper pool tables are a popular and affordable addition to home rec rooms and basements.

Bumper pool game design

In addition to their bumpers, bumper pool tables require 5 red and 5 white balls rather than the usual fifteen balls used in pool. Bumper pool tables also feature only 2 pockets rather than 6 pockets. This allows for a reduced playing surface. A standard bumper pool table is shaped like a rectangular pool table, but measures only 4 1/2 feet by 2 1/2 feet. Bumper pool tables are otherwise built much like standard pool tables, with a slate or wood composite playing surface covered by green cloth, all upheld by a wooden base or legs.

Bumper pool table manufacturers

Bumper pool tables seldom approach the same level of craftsmanship or materials that can be found in the finest pool tables, but that also means they're relatively inexpensive. A quality bumper pool table can be found for anywhere between $500 and $2,500.

Great American's line of Eagle bumper pool tables are some of the finest available. The Great American bumper pool table model HBP is 2 2/3 feet by 4 feet and typically sells for around $1,400 to $1,600. It features a mahogany formica finish and a 3/4 slate playing surface.

Imperial manufactures both stand alone bumper pool tables and the always popular 3 in 1 bumper pool tables. Imperial's bumper pool tables can be found for between $600 and $700. Imperial's 3 in 1 bumper pool tables come in mahogany and oak finishes, and can multitask as dining tables and poker tables.

Playcraft Industries also produces some fine bumper pool tables. Playcraft's Hartford bumper pool tables are very lovely. Playcraft's higher quality slate bed will cost you more than a wood bed playing surface.

JS Sales and Mizerak are also popular bumper pool table manufacturers.

3N1

The 3 in 1 bumper pool table, or as it's commonly spelled, 3N1 bumper pool table, is often preferred to standard bumper pool tables. 3N1 bumper pool tables are real space economizers. Not only do they take up less room than standard pool tables, but 3N1 bumper pool tables can transform a basement corner into a snack area and regular spot for Thursday night poker.

3N1 bumper pool tables are the ideal choice for families. For around $700 or less, you can provide for several rec room needs, and own a quality oak or mahogany bumper pool poker table.

Those looking for a real challenge may wish to create their own bumper pool table. If you wish to build your own bumper pool table, you should be able to find bumper pool table plans and materials for around $200. You'll also need a table saw and some carpentry skill, but if you're prepared to work, you should be able to build your own bumper pool table in a matter of weeks.

More information on bumper pool