How to Identify High-Quality Carrom Boards and Accessories?

Ever had that moment when your carrom striker swerves unnaturally or the coins seem off balance? These experiences are symptoms of low-quality carrom gear. Ensuring your equipment’s quality can be the difference between an average and an exceptional game experience.

High-quality carrom boards and accessories not only enhance your playing experience but also last longer, providing better value for money. Here’s your guide to identifying the cream of the crop in carrom equipment.

The Importance of Quality in Carrom

Benefits of Quality Equipment

Ever tried comparing a pebble to a well-cut diamond? That’s the kind of difference quality can make in carrom. A high-grade board provides smoother gameplay, and superior coins ensure fair play without any bias. And let’s not forget the striker – a good one glides effortlessly, making your shots more accurate.

Materials to Look Out For

Board Surface Materials

The primary material of a carrom board determines its playing experience. High-quality boards are typically made from English Birch plywood, known for its smoothness. However, plywood isn’t the only option. If you’re on a budget, Assam plywood is a decent alternative.

Types of Wood and Ply

The type of wood used matters. English Birch, as mentioned, is top-notch, but woods like Kikar and Rosewood also make sturdy and smooth boards. A key thing to note is the number of ply layers. A premium board will usually have 4-8 layers of ply.

Thickness and Size Considerations

Board Thickness

Thickness plays a significant role in durability and gameplay. Standard carrom boards meant for professional play are about 12mm to 20mm thick. Anything less than that might warp or deteriorate quickly.

Official Size and Tournaments

Size matters, especially if you’re aiming for tournament-level play. The official board size as per the International Carrom Federation is 74cm x 74cm with a 5cm border. Keeping an eye on these measurements ensures you’re getting the real deal.

Checking the Accessories

Strikers and Coins Quality

The striker is like the steering wheel of a car – it guides your game. Hence, ensuring it’s of high-quality is vital. Ivory was traditionally considered the best material, but with its ban, acrylic strikers have taken the lead. When it comes to coins, sheesham wood coins are usually the best.

The Importance of Smooth Surfaces

Ever noticed how a good game of carrom feels almost frictionless? That’s because of the smooth surfaces of strikers and coins. Ensuring there are no rough edges or dents is key to a great game.

Brand and Price

Reputation of Brands

Like any other product, brand reputation matters. Brands with a long-standing reputation in the market typically maintain consistent quality. Researching and checking reviews can give a good idea of what to expect.

Price vs. Quality

Remember the old saying, “You get what you pay for”? It’s generally true. While there are exceptions, quality often comes at a price. That said, it’s about value. Investing in a slightly pricier board can save money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.

Conclusion

Selecting the best carrom board and accessories is a blend of knowledge and attention to detail. By focusing on the materials, size, thickness, and overall quality of accessories, you can ensure that your carrom experiences are both enjoyable and long-lasting.