The Best Carrom Boards for Professional Play: Features to Look For
Carrom, a classic board game, has gained widespread popularity, not only in India but worldwide. While it is commonly played casually at home, the game also has a competitive aspect, with professional players participating in tournaments at different levels. If you are a beginner wanting to improve or an experienced player looking to perfect your skills, purchasing a high-quality carrom board can greatly impact your game.
Nevertheless, selecting the appropriate carrom board for professional use can be quite overwhelming. Not every board is the same, and for experts, even the tiniest details can impact the result of a match. This article will examine important characteristics to consider when selecting a carrom board for professional use, helping you choose the right one for your gaming preferences.
1. Board Size
When buying a carrom board for professional play, the size is one of the initial factors to think about. Although smaller boards can be used for casual or recreational purposes, a regulation carrom board for official tournaments must meet certain size requirements.
A standard professional carrom board has a playing area measuring 29 inches by 29 inches, with an extra border of approximately 3 inches. This results in a square board size of around 35 inches on each side. Choosing this size guarantees that you are training on the exact surface dimensions you will face in a competitive setting.
2. Board Thickness
The board's thickness is important for ensuring a smooth and uniform playing surface. A typical carrom board designed for professional use usually ranges in thickness from 4 mm to 6 mm. Boards thinner than this might bend with time, impacting the precision of your shots. Conversely, overly thick boards might seem slow because the puck won't slide as effortlessly.
The board is strong enough for long-term use and maintains performance with a thickness of 4-6 mm. This thickness is perfect for decreasing damage and increasing longevity, ensuring the board remains durable over time.
3. Material Quality
When selecting a carrom board for professional play, the material it is made of should be carefully considered as it is a key factor. Carrom boards are typically constructed using plywood, with the frame crafted from wood or composite materials.
To play professionally, it is recommended that the board surface be constructed of top-notch wood, ideally sourced from specific types of plywood to ensure a sleek and sturdy finish. The playing surface needs to be smooth to ensure easy gameplay without any friction, allowing coins and the striker to move effortlessly on the board. Commonly used types of wood include:
- Birch plywood is favored for high-end carrom boards due to its very smooth surface.
- Indian plywood, typically made from Sheesham wood, is famous for its durability and ability to withstand wear and tear, providing players with a superior gaming experience.
Steer clear of boards constructed with cheap plywood or MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) since they do not provide the same level of durability or performance.
4. Surface Finish
The surface finish of a professional carrom board is a pivotal feature. The playing area should be sufficiently smooth to allow the striker and coins to glide easily. A high quality surface finish will help avoid coins getting stuck or dragging, which could significantly impact gameplay.
High-quality carrom boards commonly come with a smooth surface that is covered in a thin coat of lacquer or wax, offering the perfect level of grip for accurate shots. The shine on the finish should be moderate to avoid coins sliding too easily or too rough which could slow the game down. In professional gameplay, maintaining a critical balance between speed and control is essential, and ensuring a high-quality finish is key for consistent performance.
5. Frame and Border
The frame and border of a carrom board have several functions. In addition to supporting the board's structure, they play a crucial role in the striker and coins' rebounding. Professional players depend on sturdy, well-built frames for consistent bounces crucial for scoring points using bank shots and rebounds.
Opt for a carrom board designed for professional play, featuring a hardwood frame like rosewood, teak, or maple. These varieties of wood offer great longevity and consistent bounce, which is essential for uniform game performance. The frame's thickness should range from 2.75 to 3 inches to ensure strong rebounds without being overly rigid.
It is important to strengthen the corners of the board for extra sturdiness since they often experience high impact. A high-quality frame improves the entire gaming experience by ensuring consistent rebounds, which are crucial for professional tactics and strategies.
6. Pockets
The pockets on a professional carrom board are another aspect that needs to be carefully thought through. In recreational boards, the pockets are typically smaller compared to professional-grade boards, resulting in more difficult pocketing of the coins. Nevertheless, they should not be overly big, as this may lead to pocketing being too effortless and decrease the necessary level of skill.
Circular nets are commonly found on professional boards to prevent coins from bouncing back onto the board by catching them below the pockets. The openings of the pockets need to have a smooth surface so that coins do not get caught, as this could cause interruptions during gameplay.
7. Board Weight
Although not immediately apparent, the carrom board's weight is crucial in professional gameplay. A board with more weight is typically steadier, a crucial attribute for intense games where forceful shots are frequent. Stability is important to keep the board from moving while playing, as this can impact the accuracy of shots.
Typically, carrom boards for professionals weigh between 10-15 kilograms, striking a good balance between stability and portability. A board that is too light may move around during gameplay, while a board that is too heavy may be difficult to carry and set up.
8. Precise Brand Carrom Boards
When it comes to carrom boards designed for professional play, Precise is a brand that always stands out. Renowned for its superior workmanship, Precise provides a variety of boards tailored for serious gamers. Their boards adhere to the strict standards needed for professional tournaments, featuring high-quality materials, sleek playing surfaces, and durable frames.
The Precise Champion Tournament Carrom Board, a popular model from Precise, is well-known for its outstanding playing surface, consistent rebounds, and sleek finish. Purchasing a carrom board from a reliable brand such as Precise guarantees that you are utilizing equipment specifically made for optimal performance.
9. Price Range
Carrom boards designed for professional use are usually priced higher than recreational boards because of the superior quality of materials and manufacturing. The price of a top-notch carrom board can vary between ₹3,000 to ₹10,000 (around $40 to $150 USD), depending on the brand and features.
Opting for a lower-priced board may be appealing, but it is beneficial to invest in a premium board if you are dedicated to enhancing your gameplay. A high-quality professional board provides long-lasting quality, exceptional performance, and an enhanced gaming experience, guaranteeing optimal value for your investment over time.
10. Accessories
Professional players should also think about purchasing high-quality accessories in addition to the carrom board. For example, a carrom stand is necessary to ensure the board remains at the proper height and stability while playing. Furthermore, employing a top-notch striker and well-balanced carrom coins can greatly influence your performance in the game.
Furthermore, regular use of carrom powder can help the coins and striker move smoothly, decrease friction, and uphold reliable performance.
Conclusion
Paying close attention to detail is essential when selecting a carrom board for professional gaming. Every aspect of the board, from its size and thickness to its surface finish and frame material, can impact your gameplay. By purchasing a top-notch carrom board made by reputable companies such as Precise, you guarantee that you are utilizing gear that is specifically crafted for optimal functionality. If you are preparing for a competition or just working on improving your skills, selecting the proper board can greatly impact your success in playing carrom.
