Momma's Gold Crown Billiards: A Guide to Tightening Corner Pockets

As a furniture builder and owner of a full cabinet shop, I've decided to take on the task of tightening the corner pockets on my newly acquired Gold Crown 2 billiard table. With its original pocket opening width at around 5 inches, I'm aiming to reduce it to approximately 4 1/2 inches. In this article, we'll explore the best wood choice for extending the subrails, the ideal thickness and facing material, as well as the correct angle cuts for the new pocket openings.

Wood Choice for Extension

When it comes to extending the subrails, a good wood choice is crucial to ensure durability and stability. While poplar is a popular option, there are other choices that might be better suited for this task. Considering the Gold Crown 2's table design and construction, I recommend using a hardwood like maple or cherry. These woods will provide the necessary strength and resistance to withstand the constant wear and tear of play.

Tightening Corner Pockets

To effectively tighten the corner pockets, it's essential to consider not only the subrail extension but also the angle cuts for the new pocket openings. Reducing the front opening width while maintaining an even rear opening is crucial to prevent balls from being unfairly rejected before reaching the pocket shelf. By extending the subrails and recutting the pocket opening angles, you can achieve a more precise and accurate playing experience.

Shimming vs. Extending

Some may suggest shimming the pockets using neoprene 60 shims as a solution. However, this approach can lead to unevenness and potential issues with ball return. Instead, extending the subrails and recutting the pocket opening angles provides a more permanent and reliable solution.

Correct Angle Cuts

The original angle cut for the Gold Crown 2's corner pockets is around 141 degrees. To achieve the desired width reduction, you'll need to adjust this angle. A good rule of thumb is to subtract 1-2 degrees from the original angle to create a more precise and even pocket opening.

Facing and Thickness

When choosing facing material for your Gold Crown 2's corner pockets, consider using a durable and scratch-resistant option like melamine or PVC. The thickness of the facing should be around 1/8 inch to ensure stability and durability during play.

Final Side Pocket Opening Angle

To maintain an even playing experience, it's essential to adjust the side pocket opening angle accordingly. A good starting point is to reduce the angle by 1-2 degrees from the original setting. This will help prevent balls from being unfairly rejected before reaching the pocket shelf.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Before attempting to tighten your Gold Crown 2's corner pockets, consider the following:

* Remove any rubber on the rails to ensure a smooth playing surface.

* Use a high-quality table felt like SuperSpeed K55 profile for optimal performance.

* Recut the pocket opening angles carefully to avoid unevenness and potential issues with ball return.

By following these guidelines and taking the necessary steps to extend, recut, and face your Gold Crown 2's corner pockets, you'll be able to achieve a more precise and accurate playing experience. Remember to always prioritize durability and stability when making adjustments to your billiard table, and consult with experienced professionals if needed.

Mommas gold crown billiards