Billiards Articles

A bumper pool is a casual billiards game that brings hours of fun and excitement to the players. However, a bumper pool table is different from the standard pool table as it only measures half the size of a regular pool table. Usually, it comes in an octagonal or rectangular shape. More people prefer a smaller size bumper pool table as it is ideal for smaller game rooms.

Unlike standard billiard tables, bumper pool table contains only two pockets with 12 bumpers fixed on the table. These bumpers are arranged accordingly, wherein four bumpers are placed next to every pocket positioned in the opposite ends of the table. The other eight bumpers are set on the middle part of the bumper pool table. Basically, the bumpers work as a defense mechanism on the part of the key player to hamper the opponent from banking a ball on the pocket. Here’s some easy to follow guide to playing bumper pool.

First, you have to position the spotted ball in front of the scoring holes or the pockets. Next is to line up the balls to match the color balls from the color of the scoring holes at the opposite ends.

Second, position two balls on whichever flank of the bumpers close to the back rail of the table where you placed your marked ball.

Third, strike the spotted cue ball out of the rail going right. The player that reaches close to his pocket should play again. If both spotted cue balls go to the right pocket, hit the second ball in the same way.

Fourth, shoot your spotted cue ball towards your pocket before you would play another ball. If you fail to shoot your marked ball and you play another ball, your opponent can automatically place two balls in his pocket.

Fifth, vary your shots throughout the game.

Sixth, steal another shot after you make a successful blast into your chosen pocket.

Seventh, win by shooting all five balls in your chosen pocket before your opponent.

Lastly, let me give you some tips and warnings. Like any other games, frequent practice can drastically improve your performance and skills. Moreover, learn about the rules of the game by heart. Remember that you cannot set off the ball you hit to leap other balls or bumpers. Your opponent would take the pleasure of placing two balls on his pocket with no sweat.

Another thing to consider is to not shoot any of the opponent’s balls as your opponent will then again be given the chance to automatically place two balls on his pocket. You sure don’t like that to happen so be extra careful.