Tightening Pool Table Pockets

Pool and billiards are games most commonly associated with sports bars and clubs, and playing is a great way to pass the time while frequenting these types of establishments. You may have noticed while playing pool that people tend to sit on or near the pockets, or perhaps employees moving pool tables from time to time. Over time, those actions can loosen the pockets and cause a ball to ricochet or not drop into the pocket properly. When the pockets become loose, you can tighten them by using basic tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Phillips-head screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the pocket keystone or corner cap. This is a keystone shaped piece of wood, or metal at the pocket corner apex. Most expensive pool table keystones have an embroidered piece of metal plating over them to hide the screw that can be pried off with a flat-head screwdriver. Cheaper pool tables will have an exposed screw.

    • 2

      Remove the two screws securing the corner cap/keystone to the table by using a Phillips-head screwdriver.

    • 3

      Pull out the corner cap, then remove the pocket and inspect it for damage. If the pocket is bent, it will need to be replaced. If the pocket is fit for play, re-seat the pocket into the pocket grooves.

    • 4

      Replace the corner cap and tighten down the screws securely. Wiggle the pocket to see if it gives way. Once the pocket has been re-seated or replaced, and tightened down, it should no longer be loose.