Categories
Pool

The underrated game room table: A simple guide to bumper pool

A bumper pool table could be the perfect addition to your game room if you like the idea of playing pool but only strike a ball once or twice a year

Bumper pool — is that some sort of hybrid between bumper cars and swimming in the pool? While bumper car pool floats are an awesome invention, that’s not what we’re referencing.

This game room table is so underrated, you likely won’t even find it at your local bar. But this hidden gem has the potential to be the perfect addition to your game room with its compact table size.

We’ve written about this small but mighty game before (almost 3 years ago) and feel like it’s time to give the bumper pool table some current attention.

While this article will reference some of the original content from the previous article due to relevancy, we’ll be including:

  • A brief history of bumper pool

  • Main differences between bumper pool and billiards

  • How to play bumper pool

Bumper pool just doesn’t get enough love in the gaming world, so let’s change that. And if you’re interested in what we wrote about this back in early 2019, you can check out “Why Bumper Pool Could Be Your Ideal Game” here.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF BUMPER POOL

In 1955, Valley Manufacturing introduced a new game to the world of coin-operated amusements. This game was played on a table smaller than a billiards with two holes on either end of the table.

There were eight bumpers placed in a cross-like pattern in the middle of the table, and players would put a dime in to start a game and each player would get five balls (red or white).

The object of the game: To shoot your ball into your opponent’s pocket at the other end.

Known simply as bumper pool, the “new billiards game” became hugely popular and ultimately became a staple in the bar and arcade scene. But the popularity of bumper pool has declined over the years. And, as we mentioned earlier, finding a bumper pool table in a bar is rare these days.

Related reading(s): Bar Games 101: The Great Game Of Bumper Pool

MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BUMPER POOL AND BILLIARDS

Bumper pool tables are definitely differ from ‘regular’ pool tables due to their small size and only having two pockets, as opposed to the usual six on regular pool tables.

This compact size is also one of the most beneficial aspects of a bumper table. Full-sized pool tables might be inconvenient for some home spaces because they might be too big, leaving a lot of billiard enthusiasts with no choice but to go to other places to play the game they love.

The game of bumper pool is played on an octagonal bumper pool table or rectangular bumper pool table with fixed bumper obstacles on the playfield. So not only is the table a fraction of the size of a conventional table, but the cues are about half the size of regular ones.

This smaller size allows you to arrange the bumper pool game in your living room or game room without sacrificing space (minimalists and small-space peeps are quaking with glee).

HOW TO PLAY BUMPER POOL

Introduction

Most slate bumper pool tables will have twelve bumper obstacles,. However, some will have up to 14 or 16, with two bumpers on either side of the pool table pockets.

The rest of the bumpers form a cross in the center of the pool table, with one cross line in-line with the pockets.

There is an open space at the center of the cross that is just big enough for a ball to pass through. The table is covered with the same pool table cloth material as regular standard pool tables.

Objective

Unlike regular billiards, learning how to play bumper pool is fairly easy to achieve because there are only two pockets on the table — one for each player.

The object of the game is to sink all of your balls (5 total) into the opposite pocket first (with 12 obstacles, called “bumpers,” in between). The player’s marked ball has to be pocketed before the player can sink any other balls. With only a few strategies to win, this is a billiards game for the masses.

  • Bumper pool is played with five white and five red bumper pool balls. One ball is marked from each set of five.

  • There is not a dedicated cue ball. Each ball can be directly shot into the table pockets.

How To Play

Summary: The first person to legally pocket all five of their balls wins!

To start a game of bumper pool, each set of bumper pool balls is arranged on five spots near each end of the bumper pool table by a pocket with the marked ball placed in front of the pocket.

The game begins with each player simultaneously shooting their marked ball, banking it off the pool table cushion to their right and trying to sink the ball in the pocket at the other end of the table.

  • If both players make the opening shot they select another ball and attempt the opening simultaneous shot again.

  • If both players sink all five of their balls off of the first simultaneous shot the game ends in a draw.

  • If on the opening simultaneous shot one player misses, the next shot goes to the player who sunk their ball on the opening shot.

  • If neither player makes the shot, the ball closest to the intended pocket shoots next.

A player’s turn will continue until they fail to pocket a ball.

Additional Rules

Jump shots are not allowed in the game of bumper pool.

If a player pockets one of their opponent’s balls there isn’t a penalty.

The ball is considered “sunk” no matter what pocket it falls into.

If a player sinks one of their own balls (not the last) in their own pocket, the opposing player may put two of their balls into their own pocket.

If a player sinks their last ball into the wrong pocket, they lose the game.

If a player makes a ball leave the table, the opponent can place the ball anywhere on the table, usually in the middle and drop two of their balls into their own pocket.

Related reading(s): Game Room Guys: How To Play Bumper Pool

THE SIMPLICITY OF BUMPER POOL SURPASSES ALL

After a long day at work, most of us just want to immediately sit on the couch and relax for the rest of the night. But, sometimes, playing a few rounds of pool after a hectic day takes more physical and brain power than we anticipate. This hits even harder if you don’t have your own billiards table at home. Going out isn’t always an ideal option.

If you’re a homeowner or bar owner looking for a fun version of billiards that fits into a small space, a bumper pool table is definitely an investment worth revisiting. The rules and size of bumper pool create a game that allows the players to destress in a much more simple manner, while still enjoying the classic roots of pool.

Having a bumper pool table in your home will create lasting entertainment the whole household.

Check out our showroom for various bumper pool table styles, including the most popular rectangle shape and the more unique octagon-shaped tables.

Categories
Pool

How Much Room do You Need For a Pool Table?

pool guideImagine:

You come home with a shiny new pool table on which a game has never been played. It’s regulation size, fully accessorized, and ready for some serious play. What’s not ready, however, is your non-regulation sized basement. You and your fellow pool sharks are faced with a four-walled obstacle. You squeeze around the sides, practice yoga moves with every shot, and are in too close of proximity one another’s cues. And when the excitement of your new game dissipates, you’re left with an over-crowded table that no one wants to use. Waste of money, huh? So, make sure that you have enough room for your table!

 

Regulation size:

When one considers a regulation size pool table, they often imagine the 4 ½ ft. by 9 ft. tournament table. However, it can also refer to tables that are merely twice as long as they are wide. And most people have a “Home Eight†in their homes, or an 8 ft. by 4 ft. table. So, as you prepare to make way for your new table, keep in mind the size of your purchase and its relation to your available space.

 

Measuring your space: 

The first step in selecting and purchasing your pool table should involve measuring the area in your home. And remember, it will not suffice for just your pool table to fit. You must consider the pool cues and players that will have to fit around the table, as well. So, consider how close the butt of your cue is to the wall while you’re playing. Will it touch or get too close with any particular angle? Imagine how each scenario might affect your game.

 

A general rule of thumb:

pool guideYou’ll be guaranteed enough space if you follow this general rule of thumb. Your pool room should be the length and width of the pool table plus two times the length of the cue. Use this chart for reference with your pool table size:

Although this chart accounts for cue pieces that are 58†long, you may consider using a short cue for smaller spaces as long as it is not under 48â€.

 

What if there’s an obstruction? 

Several large rooms, especially on lower levels, will have a load-bearing beam or pole. In this case, you can set up your pool table, so this obstruction is positioned on its side rather than on the end. This is beneficial as most shots are taken from the rack end of a pool table. Plus, for break shots, the cue ball can be repositioned to avoid whatever may be in your way. You might even consider buying a shorter cue, which comes as small as 36 inches, for the times when you can’t get around an obstruction. And if you’re dealing with an especially obtrusive barrier, you might invest in a few different sized cues, so you have options for its length.

 

Accessories: 

What’s a pool room without its accessories? Things like a rack for your cues, scorers, and a place for spare balls are must-haves in your billiard room. But they often take up a significant amount of space. So, to conserve room, look for a combination score-keeper and ball tray. These features can be found in several varieties of the floor-standing and wall-mounted cue racks. Plus, they’ll not only serve as space savers in a busy room, but they’ll add some decor as well!

 

Make your billiard room a welcoming and enjoyable space for all. And remember, there are always options for accommodations in the case of obstructions and limited space. When you’re in the market for a high-quality, affordable, and long-lasting pool table, make sure to evaluate your needs and investigate your options. And if you don’t know where to start, do not hesitate to give us a call! We at Games for Fun are prepared to help you find the table that’s right for you! Reach out today!

Categories
Foosball

Foosball Table Buying Guide

Foosball is sure to be the life of any party. It is ultra-competitive, all-age appropriate, and spectator friendly. So, if you have a game room, office space, or pub that needs some livening up, we recommend the crowd favorite, foosball table! But with so many variations and options of tables, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve composed our world-famous foosball table buying guide! (Okay, it’s not world-famous, but it will assist you in choosing a table that will bring joy to your space for years to come!)

Let’s start with the types of tables from which you can choose….

foosball

Table Top Units: These are typically your least expensive option. But you have to consider the type of player for whom you buy. This type of table is more like a toy and is best suited for children. If you anticipate some more serious play, you may want to forget about this option. Multi-Game Tables: Can’t decide on your favorite game? With a multi-game table, you don’t have to choose just one! Thanks to its removable parts, a multi-game table allows for your table to be transformed into several other games. However, this feature does diminish the quality of the table, making it unfit for serious foosball playin Stand-Alone Foosball Table: This is for serious play. With a stand-alone table, you can go ahead and get your game face on because this table is ready for action! It is made to withstand every hit and each triumphant goal. With these, the playing surface and overall quality of the table will be enhanced. And don’t forget, be sure that you have sufficient space for whichever table you choose. Remember that during a game, players and spectators will need to stand around the table with enough distance. A full-sized table measures 56 in. X 30 in. X 36 in.

Now think about who will be playing….

foosball
Kids

: If you’re looking to introduce your kids to the wonderful world of foosball, there are a few things to consider when purchasing a table. Ask yourself what you want out of it: something they can enjoy for years, or just something for now. Also, look for tables with adjustable leg heights and telescoping rods for their safety. For anyone else: We recommend opting for a table that is at least mid-level in quality. Durability and longevity are vital as you consider the amount of force it will take when adults play.

Finally, consider these details before buying a foosball table…

Playfield: How much action are you hoping to achieve in your foosball games? Looking for it to be fast and furious or a slow and friendly competition among friends? The hardness of your table’s playfield will determine the speed of your game. If you choose one made of wood or particleboard, your game will be a bit slower. But with laminate and even-tempered glass, you can expect to have action-packed games no matter what. Player rods: These rods control your players and extend out of either side of the table. And they come in three varieties: hollow, solid, and telescoping. Hollow rods are lighter, making them slightly faster to maneuver. In contrast, solid rods are heavier, making them a bit slower, yet more powerful. And telescoping rods are made for optimized safety. While they are more expensive and less durable, these are great options for younger players. Leg levelers: While these are explicitly useful for young and shorter players who may need a height adjustment on the table, these are also helpful if your table will stand on somewhat uneven ground. After all, nothing is more annoying than a wobbly foosball table! No matter the table you choose, whether it needs to accommodate for your smallest players or your most competitive, it is sure to bring endless hours of entertainment! And if you would benefit from discussing your options with a game expert, do not hesitate to reach out to us at Games For Fun! We are experienced and well-versed in the game industry and love to share our knowledge on this fun-filled subject. Reach out today for your next foosball table and get ready for some serious fun!

Categories
Air Hockey Darts Foosball Fun Pool Shuffleboard

Game On: Four Companies’ Killer Office Break Rooms

A lot has changed since the days of the cutthroat rigidity of the corporate world.  We are seeing companies take a softer approach and putting their attention to offering relief for an overworked or overstressed team. In order for employees to be fully engaged, motivated, and productive during the entire day, they need to have a balance of work and play.

One tactic that companies are using to create this balance is through their office game rooms. Implementing games inside offices may sound like a waste of time, but hard-working employees know that momentary game of ping pong or pool is just a few steps away.  


Businesses are set on finding top talent by creating a workplace that projects a sense of creativity and company culture.

Check out how these companies enhance company morale through their fun office break room ideas:

Airbnb

office

With over 300,000 listings worldwide and over 10 million nights booked, it’s no mystery that Airbnb’s break room culture contributes to their success. These employees enjoy a ping pong table, weekly yoga classes, and a kitchen outfitted with a chef who cooks lunch every day. Having games such as ping pong helps employees learn how to work together in a relaxed and fun manner. They are building team skills without the stress of daily work tasks.

Taboola

office

Taboola cares about cultivating a rich culture for the company and its employees; so much so that it has appointed an internal committee to oversee the assembly of fun office events on a monthly basis. Employees can escape from their busy work days and shoot some hoops with their arcade-like basketball hoop.  Don’t forget that kegerator either!

DHL

office

The interior of DHL’s office is a combination of both elegant and modern employee-friendly spaces. To match the office rooms, their game rooms are neatly organized with their brand colors and games such as darts, foosball, and video games. If employees don’t feel like playing an action-packed game, they can unwind on a soft bean bag.

Bleacher Report

Bleacher Report’s vision for their office blends the culture and lifestyle of their followers as well as the teams they cover- blurring the lines between fan and celebrity, team and spectator. With a plethora of games such as ping pong, foosball, and air hockey, employees can immerse themselves in a creative space that will carry over into their work. This type of break room builds exciting moments that evoke the importance of exploration and team involvement.

Unique break rooms in the office that are created for fun that are branded and authentic don’t happen by accident; they take intentional planning and design. Simply adding a game table may not be enough, and without careful design things may come off looking unprofessional. But done right, a game room could inject your workspace with the startup vibe we all strive for, help grow a sense of community and attract and retain talent.

Games For Fun supplies many Southern California companies with games for their office break rooms. Stop by our showroom in San Bernardino today or give us a call, and we can help you find the perfect game for your office.

We are open Monday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Categories
Shuffleboard

Finding The Right Length For Your Shuffleboard Table

After deciding to purchase a shuffleboard table, the next step is figuring out what size table will be right for you. Having a gorgeous piece of entertainment in your home such as a shuffleboard table requires some thought, as these game tables take up a good amount of room.  

Our two main carriers for shuffleboard tables is California House and our original collection, Generations.

Our showroom in San Bernardino has every size available for shuffleboard tables. Our team can  help you find the right table size and style for your home. We are right off of the 215 freeway on Rialto Ave.

Shuffleboard table sizes can vary from 9 feet to 22 feet. The best length for you will depend on the amount of space you have available.

Here are the different sizes for shuffleboard:

Small: 9 – 12 feet

If you are just beginning to play shuffleboard, a 9 to 12-foot table is a great option. These tables provide great, laid-back entertainment with budget-friendly choices. The smaller tables allow for players of all ages and levels to enjoy. It is most common for regular households to have a smaller sized table.

Medium: 14 – 16 feet

Medium sized tables tend to be better for more serious players who plan to get a lot of use out of the game but still have some space restrictions. These tables are great for smaller game rooms as they still provide the experience of a full sized table on a lower scale. The length will give you enough room to play with more difficulty than tables around 9 to 12 feet.

Large: 18 – 22 feet

The official length for professional shuffleboard matches is 22 feet, but even 18 feet is quite long for casual players. If you are able to accommodate a table in this size range, you will be adding a unique and gorgeous game table in your space. These larger lengths allow for players to really test their skills.

Regardless of what size table you choose, one factor to keep in mind is the space around the table. You will want to table at least two feet open on each side to give players ample room to get behind and bend over for proper stance and shooting.

If you would like more insight on what type of table would be right for your home, stop by our showroom. Our team can show you each size in person and help you decide what will be best for your home.

We are open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Categories
Pool

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN POOL, SNOOKER, AND BILLIARDS

For many players, terms such as billiards, pool, and snooker are used interchangeably to describe a cue game. Even though these games are very similar, there are distinctions in their play.

Each of these cue sports brings different types of enjoyment for players.

Our showroom in San Bernardino has a variety of tables, cues, balls, and accessories for billiards, pool, and snooker. Due to being in the billiards business for 35 years, we have an extensive selection of antique and modern models for every aspect of these games. Visit us off of the 215 freeway, our team would be happy to help you find the right type of game that fits your style.

If you are just beginning to play the classic games, it can be difficult recognizing the differences between pool, snooker, and billiards.

We broke down the characteristics of these three popular cue sports:

Billiards

Carom billiards is the official name of this specific game, while billiards represents the generic term for all three of these cue sports.

Table: Billiards tables are usually ten feet by five feet. Compared to pool and snooker, billiards is unique in the way that the table will not have pockets.

Balls: Billiards is played using three balls with one white, one red and one yellow. The yellow and white balls are used as cue balls for each player.  

Objective:  The main objective of billiards is to score points (known as counts) by bouncing one’s own ball off of the other two balls on the table. Points can be scored through potting, in-offs, and cannons. The game is normally played in a race to reach a certain number of points or as a timed game.

Pool

In today’s society, the term “pool” is used much more than any other game term.

Table: Pool is played on the smallest table of the three games. The average table size for pool is six feet by three feet. This size makes the game typically easier to play when compared to billiards and snooker.

Balls: There are many variations of pool that depict the number of balls being used. The two most common are eight-ball and nine-ball.  

Objective: In 8-ball pool, there are seven solid and seven striped balls and one 8 black ball. In order to win, the player must pot his specific balls (solids or stripes) and then finish with the black 8-ball. In 9-ball pool, only nine balls are on the table. Each player pots the balls in order of number. The person to pot the 9 ball wins.

Snooker

Snooker is known to be one of the more complicated cue sports.

Table: Snooker is played with the biggest table at twelve feet by six feet.

Balls: Snooker uses 22 balls including a white “striker” ball. There are 15 red, along with the object balls: 1 yellow, 1 brown, 1 blue, 1 pink, 1 black, and 1 green. Each colored ball has a designated spot on the table.

Objective: The main objective of snooker is to pocket more balls than your opponent. Once the 15 red balls have been pocketed, the remaining colored balls must be pocketed in a specific order.

It is common for people to refer to billiards, pool, and snooker loosely, but each game brings a different type of competition and enjoyment.

We have brand new billiards tables available in our showroom and online! Our team has designed four new tables under our original collection of Generations pool tables.

If you would like to see these tables and the rest of our collection in person, visit us in our showroom. We are open Monday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Our team can provide you with everything you need to know about these games.

Not in the area? Give us a call at (909) 885-3604, and we will answer any questions you may have.

Categories
Pool

New Pool Tables At Games For Fun

After being in the gaming industry for 35 years, we have grown to know every type of classic game table. Although we enjoy providing all types of entertainment for families and businesses, we are most passionate about billiards. Our experience in billiards has been our longest journey, which has allowed us the opportunity to design our own collection of tables.

Our team has carefully designed four brand new tables for our original collection, Generations.

Each of these tables includes genuine leather pockets, 1-inch Brazilian slate, 100% gum rubber cushions, and Teflon bathed Championship Invitational billiard cloth. Manufactured to precise standards using top quality material, these tables are sure to be the centerpiece of any room.

Come into our showroom in San Bernardino to see these beautiful tables in person. We are off of the 215 freeway on Rialto Ave.

Learn more about our newest pool tables:

Arcadian

new pool design

Our Arcadian pool table provides a farmhouse feel with its combination of wooden panels and metal bolts. The warm, yet rustic finish provides a rich texture that gives this game table dimension and style. The Arcadian is made from solid pine with no veneer or laminate. When you’re done playing, this table can transform into a dining table with its matching wooden top that is made with the same care and quality as the game table.

Onyx

new pool design

If you are looking for a table to be the staple piece in your house, then the Onyx is for you. The Onyx pool table combines classic features with modern design. The patterned leather pockets and thick wooden legs remind us of the tables we grew up with. Along with its stunning build, this table contains a dark-washed grey tone. The body of this table matches perfectly with any color felt, making it ideal for many types of interior designs. This table also contains a convenient pull out full-size accessory drawer that can store all of your accessories without the need for a rack on the wall or floor. It is made from solid pine and no veneers or laminates.  

Patrician

new pool design

Our Patrician pool table provides a warmer feel to the home. The medium-brown wood blends nicely with many felt colors, creating a cozy energy for your home. With its oversized rounded legs, this table exudes elegance and class. As our most unique design of the four new tables, the Patrician truly lives up to its sophisticated name. The clean and sharp construction makes this table a luxury piece of furniture in the home.  Similar to our previous two tables, it is also made from solid pine and with no veneers or laminates.

Excalibur

new pool design

While most tables are designed with complete wood, our Excalibur pool table provides a fresh new look for any home or public space. Combined with industrial charm and sleek modernity, its raw steel bracing is unique to only this table. The modern, two-toned design of the craftsman oak finish is a beautiful fit for any pool player looking for something new and exciting. This table is made from a solid pine subsurface with a 5mm thick oak board finish. The sturdy and robust parts of this table weigh over 1000 pounds when assembled!

Our Generations line of pool tables was created to carry on our legacy; by providing families with products they can enjoy with one another for years to come.

We are open Monday – Saturday from 9:00AM to 5:00PM. Our staff would be happy to show you all of our new tables in person.

Not in the area? Give us a call at (909) 885-3604, and we will answer any questions you may have.

Categories
Pool

Why McDermott Cues Are Great for Beginners and Experts


After being in the billiards industry for 35 years, our team has grown to be experts in every aspect of pool. One of the most important accessories to complete your pool game is your pool cue. Regardless of skill, your pool cue determines the accuracy of your shot.

Games For Fun is the largest McDermott pool cue supplier on the west coast. Since 1975, McDermott has consistently raised the industry standard for what billiard players expect from a high-quality pool cue. McDermott products use the latest technology, along with the finest materials in the world.  We like McDermott because they have a wide selection of cues for players of all levels, beginner, intermediate, and expert.

Learn more about McDermott pool cues at Games For Fun:

Quality of McDermott Cues

Craftsmanship is a fine art. McDermott utilizes a process that includes over 150 separate procedures in the construction of each cue. All shafts start from the finest kiln-dried, hand-selected North American Hard Rock maple and turned 11 times for stability. All forearms, handles and sleeves are handcrafted from the finest and most exotic woods from around the world.

H, G, and Select Series

McDermott Cues come in three separate series: H-Series, G-Series, and Select Series.

 McDermott Cues

H-Series: The brand new H-Series is the first line of cues ever to feature the fully-adjustable Variable Balance Point (VBP) weight system. This breakthrough is made possible by the new patented technology that combines a full-length carbon fiber core with a rail, on which the weights can be repositioned forward or backward inside the cue. No other cue allows you to have this much control over both the weight and balance.

 McDermott Cues

G-Series: McDermott G-Series cues are known for their quality construction, exotic woods, intricate inlays and limitless customization options.

 McDermott Cues

Select Series: McDermott Select Series cues are equipped standard with i-Pro Slim or i-3 shafts for high performance at an affordable price.

Star Pool Cues

 McDermott Cues

Star cues feature premium maple and exotic woods mixed with intricate 4-color overlays. Manufactured globally using McDermott’s technology, these cues provide the highest quality hit in their price range. They are covered by a limited lifetime warranty.

Lucky Pool Cues

 McDermott Cues

Lucky cues feature premium maple and intricate graphic overlays. This provides you with exceptional value for one of the most solid-hitting, globally-manufactured cues in the industry. They are covered by a three-year limited warranty.

Sledgehammer Break Cues

 McDermott Cues

Sledgehammer is one of the most recognized and respected names in dedicated break cues. The patented ferrule technology found in the SH1 optimizes energy transfer, resulting in extreme power and accuracy. Known to many as the hardest and most solid hitting break cue on the market, the Sledgehammer simply destroys a rack, leaving your competition speechless.

Stinger Break/Jump Cues

 McDermott Cues

The Stinger technology takes the hit energy to the center of the shaft, regardless of where you hit the tip. The tip can be shaped flatter than a typical break cue’s tip. The flatter profile causes the Stinger tip to have a huge “sweet spot.†You can mishit and still get the result you intended. The tip features a “stinger†stem that projects downward through a hole in the center of the ferrule. On impact, the shock of the hit goes to the center of the tip and down the stinger stem, transmitting the impact directly to the center of the shaft. This results in a very efficient, precise hit.

We are the biggest distributor of McDermott Cues on the entire west coast. With the amount of inventory we carry in our showroom, you are able to find every type of cue McDermott displays in their catalogs.

Stop by our showroom in San Bernardino to try out any McDermott cue style you like. Our team is happy to help you find the perfect cue for your game. We are located right off of the 215 freeway on Rialto Ave.

We are open Monday – Saturday from 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM.

Categories
Foosball

How To Replace A Broken Foosball Player

While foosball tables are known to be tough and sturdy, they are not completely indestructible. After too much intensity from a tournament or regular wear and tear over the years, it is common to break a foosball player.

Fortunately, if you spend years playing and investing in your foosball table and a player breaks, all it needs is a simple replacement.

Our team here at Games For Fun has been working with foosball tables and parts for decades. Regardless of brand or model, we can help get your table back to it’s best condition. Along with our foosball selection online, our showroom in San Bernardino holds everything you need to maintain the quality of your table for years.

Got a broken player? Follow these steps to replace foosball men and get back to playing:

Step 1: Supplies

Having the right tools to replace your players is crucial. Here’s what you need:

Step 2: Prep

Replacing foosball players does not take too much prep, but it is important in order to keep your table clean and in good shape. Before any replacement is done, set a towel down onto the base of the table to catch any pieces that may fall off during the process. Having a towel down will also protect any potential damage that could be caused by installing the pin punch.

Step 3: Removal

To remove the pin of the broken player, use your pin punch and hammer it out.  The wooden block should be placed under the rod to help prevent your rod from bending or warping while you hammer out the old pin. Once the pin is out of the player, it will easily slide off of the rod. Removing rods from a foosball table is simple and easy. Simply unscrew the bearings on each side of the table to slide the rod out.

Step 4: Replacement

Foosball player replacement is similar to removal. Simply slide in your new players onto the rod and align them to the holes with the pin punch. Before you hammer the pins back in place, make sure to keep the wooden block under the rod again to prevent warping. After all of the players are secure, screw the bumpers back into the table.

If you are unsure about what type of replacement parts you may need for your foosball table or need further assistance on how to replace a player properly, our team would be happy to help. You can give us a call at (909) 885-3604 or stop by our showroom in San Bernardino. We are right off of the 215 freeway on Rialto Ave.

Looking to find a new foosball table for your home or business? Right now, we have a selection of beautiful tables on sale!

With free shipping and a discounted price, you can get any of these tables:

Marksman Multi Game Table

Challenger Single Goalie Table

Marksman Table

Victory Table

Categories
Pool

Most Common Mistakes In Billiards

Mastering billiards is no easy feat. With so many angles and ways to shoot, one bad shot can open yourself up to a game-winning run by your opponent.

We have been in the billiards industry for 35 years. Since then, we have seen the evolution of billiards transform with styles and designs, but one thing remains constant: players struggle with many of the same mistakes.

Since 1984, we have been the leader in the pool table industry in Southern California. Our showroom in San Bernardino has a wide variety of modern and vintage billiards tables, billiards cues and balls, and accessories including training tools that can completely transform your skill.

Do you seem to have lost your touch around the felt?  Here are some common mistakes to help you turnaround your 8-ball, 9-ball, or cutthroat game:

Raising or Dropping Your Cue

Regardless if you are a beginner or expert, every player learns quickly that angle is everything. In order to get the perfect shot, you must have your cue set up properly. An unleveled cue will result in an inaccurate aim. Raising or dropping your cue stick before shooting is going to alter your precision; it’s important to keep it even and balanced throughout your shot. One way to ensure you don’t make this mistake on a particularly tough angle is by using a bridgehead.

Pulling Your Cue Back Before The Shot

One of the biggest causes of missed shots comes from pulling back the cue stick before shooting. The game of billiards is sensitive; any extra movement will modify where the cue ball will go. Jerking back to get more power will work against you in most cases. Make sure to pull back the cue stick slowly and fluidly, then follow through with your shot and try to imagine your grip hand swinging all the way to the object ball.

Too Much Impact

For some reason, we all have the natural desire to give our shots as much power as possible to get our object ball in the right place. But when there is too much power, it becomes much more difficult to control your cue and your aim. The important skill to master in billiards is control; don’t be afraid to slow down and loosen up! Giving your shot too much impact will cause you to have a bumpy ride.

The best thing to do when playing billiards is not to overthink your shot, and enjoy the game. If you have any questions regarding billiards, stop by our showroom in San Bernardino. We have a team of experts who would love to help you.

You can visit us right off of the 215 freeway on exit 43 for West 2nd Street.

PS: In just a few short weeks, we will have a completely new line of pool tables! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get a glimpse of our new designs.

Right now, we are offering 0% same-as-cash financing on orders $500 and up for 12-months!

We are open Monday – Saturday from 9:00AM to 5:00PM. Our staff would be happy to help you find the perfect pool table for your home.

Not in the area? Give us a call at (909) 885-3604, and we will answer any questions you may have.

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