Shuffleboard has two main types, Deck shuffleboard and Table shuffleboard. Each has the same and different equipment required to play. We will be discussing the different equipment required for each type of shuffleboard game.
Table shuffleboard is usually played indoors on tables of varying lengths. Pucks, wax, and a table are the main requirements to play table shuffleboard. We will discuss different equipment and how to use them in detail.
Deck shuffleboard is usually played outdoors but can also be played indoors on long courts. The surface can be of concrete or wood having scoring zones marked on it. Cues, pucks, also known as weights, and playing surfaces are its main requirements. We will discuss the role of each equipment in detail.
Table shuffleboard Equipment
Table shuffleboard is played on tables of varying lengths ranging from 9ft-22ft long. It has some equipment required as discussed below.
Table: A table is required to play table shuffleboard. The table can be of different lengths depending on your experience, available space, and your budget. Tables of different lengths are available, ranging from 9 feet to 22 feet long and 20 inches wide. The tables are marked with scoring zones of 1,2 and 3, caring points of 1,2, and 3, respectively. Shuffleboard Tables are made up of high-quality wood, usually maple.
Pucks: Pucks, also known as weights, are a fundamental component of shuffleboard. Pucks, usually made up of metal and plastic, are pushed down the table to land in the scoring zones. Pucks have different sizes and weights. Standard tournament pucks usually weigh around 242-246 grams and size 2-5/16 inches and 2-1/8 inches. However, you can have your dimensions for pucks according to your table.
Cups can be of three different shapes: Flat, pointed, and cupped, with the flat one more fast and pointed one less. A professional player may have all types of cups to be used in different scenarios. However, flatter pucks are preferred for better slides. Pucks are available in sets of eight, four each of different colors.
Wax: Shuffleboard wax, also known as sand or powder. Shuffleboard wax is made up of fine silicon particles. It is applied to the playing surface on the table to help pucks slide smoothly. The amount of wax applied to the surface determines the speed of the surface; the more wax, the faster the speed, and vice versa. It is sprinkled on the surface to make pucks slide smoothly.
Scoring system: A scoring system is required to keep scores. Scores are usually kept on board and visible to everyone, but the introduction of an electronic scoreboard made it easier to keep scores. You may not need a scoring system; instead, use a simple paper to keep score, depending upon your personal choices.
Brush: A cleaner, usually a brush, is required to keep the table clean between games and get it ready for the next game.
Deck shuffleboard Requirements
Deck shuffleboard, also known as floor or ground shuffleboard, is usually played outdoors but also indoors on long courts. Deck shuffleboard courts are usually 52 feet long. Here are the deck shuffleboard requirements.
Court: The court is the playing surface required to play deck shuffleboard. Deck Shuffleboard court is usually made of concrete and wood. Regulation shuffleboard courts are 52 feet long and 6 feet wide, but you may have your length according to your resources and requirements. The court is marked with scoring zones 7,8 and 10. There is also an additional zone known as the kitchen zone.
Pucks: Pucks or weights are slid to the opposite side to land in the scoring areas. Eight pucks set, usually with four red and four black colors are used in deck shuffleboard.
Scoreboard: a scoring system is required to keep scores in the deck shuffleboard. Usually, a hard blackboard is used to note down scores, or you may have your scoring system.
Broom: A broom or brush is required to clean the playing surface clean.
A cue: Cue is used in the shuffleboard to push down weights in the deck shuffleboard. A cue is a 6-foot-long stick, usually having a U-shaped head.
Regardless of the game or the type of game you are playing, these are must-have equipment. Apart from these requirements, you may need additional resources as well. You may need a rules and etiquette book, a kit, and a pair of shoes to play in tournaments. A table cover is needed to keep your table surface safe when not in use.
Setting The Game
To play table shuffleboard, find your opposition:
- Clean the surface with a brush to get it ready for the game.
- Apply wax and slide pucks to check the speed of the surface.
- Toss a coin to decide who goes first.
- Decide your color of pucks and start playing the game.
Slid your pucks in the order decided at the toss.
While playing in the deck shuffleboard clean the surface with a broom to remove any obstacles in the playing area. You may need wax in table courts apply wax. Find your opposition and decide who goes first through the toss. Start playing by pushing pucks through the court in the order decided at the toss.
Conclusion
Shuffleboard is a fun game; having the right equipment can make it more interesting. Whether you are new to shuffleboard or a pro at shuffleboard, having the right set of equipment will help you improve your game. A well-maintained shuffleboard table or surface, a set of pucks, a cue, and a scoring system are key to shuffleboard.
Remember, shuffleboard is fun, so gather your equipment, invite friends, and start playing this fun game.