If you are a slate pool table owner, congratulations on making your dream a reality! Buying a table is surely a very cumbersome task. From picking the best out of the varied stock of pool, billiard and snooker table; to ensuring your slate table is more authentic than the imitations, is quite a journey and an achievement in its self.
Now that you own one, you must be convinced that yours is the greatest most perfect slate table in the whole world. Buying a good quality slate table does deserve a pat on the back but your job does not end here. Slate pool tables are brilliant and retaining their brilliance each day would need some toil.
What you should firstly come to terms with at the very start is that slate pool tables deteriorate over time. Whether you go for a stroke everyday or leave your table looking like a showpiece; pool tables come with an expiry date unless made of pure slate. There may not be anything that can really reverse its aging, but you can surely help it age gracefully. That’s right, before you go bonkers about playing pool with your pals make sure you know all that it takes to retain and maintain its glory.
When it comes to slate pool tables in particular, you must be sure that it is leveled. A slate that is not leveled even by an iota can adversely affect game play. Never attempt to move a fully assembled pool table even by a feet. This will offset the level and you may crack the wax that holds up three pieces of slate. Sitting on the pool table is a also bad idea as it puts the wax at the risk of cracking up. Your table is sensitive and any sort of rough handling can cause serious damages. Avoid getting pets or small kids anywhere around the table. As absurd as it may sound, lights too affect your tables. Constant exposure to sunlight may cause your table cloth to fade and even cause bleaching. Remember to use a pool cover when the table is not in use.
For cleaning the cloth, it is strongly recommended to use a light vacuum cleaner instead of a brush. If you happen to use a brush, always use a brush specifically made for pool tables. While brushing, ensure it is not done against the grain but towards the pockets or from one end to the other. In addition to the cloth, it is extremely crucial to ensure that the balls are clean. The cleanliness of the pool balls can preserve the life of the pool cloth and consequently the table’s magnificence.
The real deal here is to be a responsible owner and treat your table with the love and care it deserves. The next time you play a mind blowing game with your friends, do remember to employ these steps after the game and see how your table continues to reward you!
It is extremely tough to master the nuances of a complex sport like golf. Beginners, in particular, can find it to be exhausting and confusing because of the multiple rules and equipment involved. While one has to work hard on their skills, with the right clubs, golfing can turn into the most rewarding experience.
The following are some common types of golf clubs newbies should know of.
Woods
These types of golf clubs were initially made of wood; however, they are now created with materials like steel or titanium. Woods are useful for propelling the golf ball to the farthest distances. The heads of such clubs are large and rounded, whereas their base is flat, which allows the player to effortlessly swing the club over the ground. Driver and fairways are the two most popular kinds of woods used.
Irons
The irons are used once the player is closer to the green, i.e., when one is within 200 yards of the hole. The iron golf set covers clubs numbered from 3 to 9 and a pitching wedge. The lower numbered irons can be a little tricky to use. Therefore, several beginners adjust their golf set by picking a few wood clubs so that they could comfortably strike the ball and at the same time cover big distances.
Wedges
The pitching wedge is incorporated in the standard iron set; however, one will need to purchase other types of wedges too. These golf clubs have a high loft with a short shaft and come in handy for hitting the ball over the tree or removing the golf ball from the sand. The sand, gap, and lob are some popular sorts of wedges that can be bought separately. However, the beginners, usually only need the pitching edge. They can buy the additional variety as their level of play advances.
Putters
Every golfer needs putter in their set as it serves an essential purpose, i.e., pushing the ball in the hole when the player is on the green. The putter clubs are available in 3 different styles, including heel-toe, mallet, and traditional blade. Mallets are the recommended option for most beginners. Generally, standard putters are 32 to 36 inches long; however, one can get them customized based on their comfort.
Hybrids
Also called as utility clubs, hybrids are a comparatively a newer addition in professional and recreational golf. The hybrids combine the shaft of the irons and the head of the fairway wood. They are designed to replace the lower numbered irons that are difficult to play with. These clubs cover the same distances as irons but are easier to swing, making them ideal for beginners.
A seasoned player or rookie, it is important to know that the key to a good golf game is using the right club. At times, choosing a golf club can turn into a daunting task because of the extensive range of golf clubs that are available in the market. Several players, especially, beginners make the blunder of buying clubs that don’t agree with their swing mechanics or level of play. Therefore, before making a purchase, here are some essential factors one should scrutinize.
Golf club length
It is imperative for a player to get a golf club of the right length. Standard golf clubs are designed for men and women with an approximate height of 5 foot 10 inches. If players are taller or shorter than the stated height, then they will need to get their golf clubs customized. Likewise, physical strength also needs to be taken into consideration. So, individuals with short stature can opt for lighter golf clubs so that it doesn’t interfere with their swing power.
Grips
The grips are crucial for maintaining the player’s control over the golf club. Going for the wrong grips can impede one’s golf game. There are four types of grips to choose from, i.e., the standard grip, the under-sized grip, the mid-sized grip, and the over-sized grip. Moreover, they come in a variety of textures like smooth, coarse, and abrasive. To pick the best grips, one should consult a professional golf fitter.
Shaft material
The shaft of the golf club makes up for the majority of its weight. Typically, these shafts are created using graphite or steel. Graphite shafts are comparatively more expensive. However, they are lighter and render better distance with every swing. Moreover, their lightness makes it simpler for the player to swing. This feature could benefit people who significantly lack arm strength. Alternatively, steel is heavier and cheaper but makes a great option for individuals who have a good arm strength and need the additional weight to restrain their swings.
Accessories
While buying a golf club, one should ensure to buy some essential accessories like a golf bag, gloves, and shoes. Although it is optional to use gloves and golf shoes, these accessories can come in handy. The gloves can improve the grip on the golf club, and the shoes can prevent the player from slipping and falling on the course.