Air hockey is one of the most popular sport games in the world. But, like any sport, it can be difficult to master. If you’re looking to improve your game, there are a number of tips and tricks you can follow to make your shots go in. One of the most important aspects of air hockey is keeping your table stable. Without a stable table, it’s almost impossible to shoot the puck accurately. With these tips, you’ll learn how to make your air hockey table more stable, so you can become a better player.
Table of Contents
Choose The Right Surface
The first and most critical step to fixing your dead spots is selecting the right surface. Regardless of whether you play at home or in a commercial park, you’ll need to ensure that the surface you choose is completely level and flat. Otherwise, all your hard work could go to waste. It’s also important to note here that not all perfectly flat surfaces are created equal. Some are much more stable than others, so make sure you’re getting the right surface for the job.
Install The Right Bearings
Installing the right bearings in your air hockey table is crucial for making it stable. There are a number of different bearings you can install, all with their perks and quirks. When selecting the right bearings, you’ll want to consider the size of the opening in your table, the material it’s made of, and how smooth and quiet it runs. For an opening-side mounted bearing, a small table could require large, noisy bolts to keep it from vibrating too much. Another option is an in-tank style bearing, which connects directly to the wall and holds the puck in place without any visible parts.
Choose The Right Puck
Next up is choosing the right puck. It’s vital to keep the size and weight of the puck in mind while deciding on what color and material you want it to be. A small puck is crucial for an accurate shot, while a large one can be a bit sluggish to control. You can find a variety of pucks made of different materials that behave differently, so think about what you’d like your puck to do and choose accordingly. For example, if you want something that’s light, choose a thin material such as foam or plastic. If you want a heavier puck, go with metal or wood. When selecting the right material, it is also important to consider how the puck will react when hit with a puck gun, metal bat, or hockey stick. Thin, light pucks can be easily deflected by heavier objects, while thicker, sturdier pucks can take more abuse and keep on rolling.
Use Level Technology
Even with the right surface, bearings, and puck, your table can still vibrate way too much to allow for any kind of accuracy. When this happens, it’s usually because of something wrong with the surface you’re playing on. This can be anything from poorly levelled concrete to overly polished hardwood. Regardless of the situation, using level technology to correct the issue can make a world of difference. Leveling chairs and accessories for air hockey tables are also important to keep in mind, as even the slightest difference in level can cause problems. When choosing and installing leveling technology, make sure you get everything level and smooth before continuing with the rest of the installation.
Choose The Right Paddles
Your air hockey table’s paddles are important accessories that can make a noticeable difference in how well you play. There are a few different types of paddles you can choose from, with each one having its perks and quirks. If you’re deciding between wired and wireless, think about what you’d like your paddle to do. Wired paddles tend to be a bit more stable than wireless ones, so if you’re looking for accuracy, go with the wired variety. If you’d like something more maneuverable, pick the wireless variety. It’s also worth noting that shorter paddles make for better maneuverability as well, so if you’re tight on room, go for the shorter version instead of the full-size variety.
Once you’ve got all your essentials taken care of, it’s time to move on to the fun part. Before you start playing, take some time to learn the rules and get the hang of what’s expected of you on the field. With these tips, you’ll become a better player and enjoy the game more. And, as always, if you have any other tips or tricks, feel free to leave us a comment below!