Shuffleboard Table Buyers Guide: Everything You Need To Know To Make An Informed Decision

Shuffleboard Tables For The Home

Overview:

Our Shuffleboard Table Buyers Guide will help you navigate the process of buying the perfect Shuffleboard for your lifestyle and budget. Given the myriad of options and price points for Shuffleboard Tables, the process of researching and selecting a table can be a bit daunting. This Shuffleboard Table Buying Guide will help you make an informed decision on what is, in most cases, a once in a lifetime purchase.

The Basics – Shuffleboard Table Components:

Understanding the three components that are part of every Shuffleboard Table will help you better understand the information in The Shuffleboard Federation’s Shuffleboard Table Buyers Guide. The most important component the is playing surface, the actual slab of Butcher Block Maple that is the heart of every Shuffleboard Table. Playfields are generally one-piece, but are also available in a two-piece configuration. More about that later in this informational document.

The Playfield sits in the part of a Shuffleboard Table that is referred to as the Cradle. The Cradle is usually 16″ longer than the Playfield. So, a 16′ Shuffleboard Table has a 14′ 8″ Playfield. Shuffleboard Tables that are 9′ in length or less are almost always one single piece. Some 12′ Shuffleboards have one-piece cradles and other come in two 6′ sections. Ditto for 14′ Shuffleboards, a few come with one-piece cradles, but the overwhelming majority of them come in two 7′ sections. Longer Shuffleboard Tables, those measuring 16′, 18′, 20′ and 22′ always have two-piece cradles, which are 8′, 9′, 10′, and 11′, respectively. Here at The Shuffleboard Federation, we also offer custom lengths to help you maximize the available space in your game room.

The final component is the legs. Though they are self explanatory, there are a few considerations. Most of our tables come with solid wood legs. A couple of our contemporary Shuffleboard Tables, like the Hudson Metro, have cradles and legs that are made from powdered coated steel. The Metro also comes in a Stainless Steel version. Both versions of the Metro are extremely well built and sturdy. Some other models with steel legs include the very popular Williamsburg and Astoria, both made by Venture Shuffleboard. The position of the legs is rarely discussed, but is important. We prefer that the legs at each end of the table are as close to the end of the cradle as possible, for maximum support.

Our Brands:

We evaluated dozens of companies during the process of selecting the four brands we sell, Champion Shuffleboard, Hudson Shuffleboards, Venture Shuffleboard, and Heirloom Shuffleboards. In addition to being well-established, highly reputable companies, with strong warranties, that manufacture their Shuffleboard Tables in the USA, this Shuffleboard Table Buyers Guide will provide insights as to why we have selected these particular companies. It’s important to note that The Shuffleboard Federation is uniquely qualified to assess Playfield quality. Company Founder, John McDermott, was rated in the top ten players in the world for 30 straight years. His background makes him especially well qualified to evaluate quality, especially where there is a direct correlation to playability.

Shuffleboard Tables come in two broad categories, Regulation Style Shuffleboards and Entry Level Shuffleboards. Regulation Style Shuffleboard Tables have Playfields that are 20″ wide and 3″ thick. Regulation Style is not to be confused with Regulation Length, which is 22‘. Entry Level tables have playing surfaces that are 16″ wide and 1.5″ to 1.75″ thick. They are available in lengths of 9′, 12′, and 14’.

Regulation Style and Entry Level Shuffleboard Tables are made both domestically and overseas. At The Shuffleboard Federation, we exclusively carry Made In The USA Shuffleboard Tables and Table Shuffleboard Accessory Products. We make most of the accessory products that we sell, which are sold direct to the consumer, with no middleman. In terms of quality, Shuffleboards Made In The USA are far superior to imported tables, albeit at a significantly higher price. While imported tables often look great in pictures, they are notorious for poor quality playfields with significant warping issues.

Shuffleboard Table Length: Choosing The Right Size

What is the best length for a home Shuffleboard Table is one of the most frequently asked questions we receive. The answer depends on the size and layout of your room. While having two feet of room at the each end of the table is enough room to stand and shoot, three feet is more comfortable. Anything more than that is a bonus. Shuffleboard Table lengths always refer to the complete end to end dimension. The actual playing surface is generally 16″ shorter than the overall length. So, a 12′ Shuffleboard Table, which is one of the most popular sizes for a residential Shuffleboard Table, has a Playfield that is 10′ 8″ long.

Though a Shuffleboard Table can be placed right up against a wall, playing will be a little more comfortable is you can position it 6″ to 8″ away from the wall. That little bit of extra space results in plenty of elbow room and a more comfortable playing experience.

Playing Surface (Playfield)

Champion Shuffleboard, the world’s oldest and largest Shuffleboard Table manufacturer, utilizes tongue and groove construction when building their playing surfaces. They mill two grooves which run the full length of each board in their playfields. The grooves result in more surface area, allowing Champion to use more glue, resulting in exceptional strength and structural integrity. Champion builds their tables in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, in a 170,000 square foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

Grand Champion Limited Edition Shuffleboard Table
The Grand Champion Limited Edition, Our Bestselling Shuffleboard Table.

Hudson Shuffleboards, the fastest growing company in the Shuffleboard Table business, has built their company by offering high quality at an unbeatable price. In addition to finger jointing the butts ends of the individual pieces of wood in their playfields, Hudson Shuffleboards is the only company that uses Maple inlays on the underside of their playing surfaces to provide additional strength and reinforcement at the location of each Climatic Adjuster.

Hudson-Metro-Shuffleboard-Table
Hudson Metro Contemporary Shuffleboard Table

Venture Shuffleboards uses finger jointed, premium quality hard Maple in all of their playfields. Venture finishes their playing surfaces with seven coats of hard, clear synthetic lacquer. This results in a playing experience akin to that of the traditionally finished tables of a by gone era. This second generation family company has stayed true to its roots by doing things the old fashioned way.

Venture Williamsburg Shuffleboard Table
Venture Williamsburg Shuffleboard Table

Heirloom Shuffleboards uses the highest quality materials of any company in the Shuffleboard Table business. Heirloom playfields are completely hand made from edge grain Canadian Maple, for unparalleled beauty, strength and durability. Heirloom is the only company in the industry to offer both traditional lacquer finishes, and modern polymer finishes. Heirloom Shuffleboards offers quality as timeless as the game itself. Heirloom Shuffleboard Tables make a statement that old-world craftsmanship is alive and well, and available for those discerning individuals who appreciate the finer things in life.

Solid Walnut Heirloom Aspen Shuffleboard Table

Two-Piece Playfields:

Two-piece playfields allow you to get a longer Shuffleboard Table into a room in which a one-piece Playfield cannot go into, due to turns in a staircase or tight turns in a hallway. They are also a great option if your Shuffleboard Table is going into an upstairs room, in which case a one-piece Playfield may be too heavy to get into the space. The two-piece Playfield was invented by Champion Shuffleboard in 2010, at which time they applied for a patent. The patent for this game changing option was issued on 5/14/2013. Two-Piece Playfields are originally built as a single, contiguous playing surface, then cut in half. This ensures that, where the two sections come together, there is continuity of color and wood grain.

Climatic Adjusters:

The playing surface (Playfield) of a Shuffleboard Table is made of wood and will change to its climate. More humid conditions will cause the Playfield to expand and dip and become more concave. Drier conditions will result in the Playfield contracting, and becoming convex, or “high centered”. Climatic adjusters are used to create ideal the concave shape of playing surface.

Depending upon length of table, number of adjusters will vary but tend to be located approximately every 3 or 4 ft along underside of table, beginning one foot from each end of board If too concave, weights (pucks) will take an “S” path down the board. If too convex, weights will be difficult to cross the center and will dump off the rails into the gutters.

Shuffleboard Table Playfields should ideally be slightly concave. This helps keep the weights/pucks on the board and creates some extra fun and excitement, by allowing a player to go around their opponents weight and hide behind it. Comparing shuffleboard to golf, as I often do, can you imagine how boring golf would be if all the greens were perfectly flat!

Climatic Adjusters date back to the late 1940’s, when Paul Cusano, president of American Shuffleboard Company, created his “Warpage Correction Device” in December, 1947, and applied for a patent thereon, this device being marketed by the American Shuffleboard Company as “Climatic Adjusters” – Patent Number 2.479.477 – lever-type adjuster. Shortly thereafter, In November of 1948, Rock-Ola Shuffleboard created and marketed its similar device, known as “Rock-Ola Climatic Equalizers”, which triggered a prolonged legal dispute between two of the shuffleboard manufacturing heavyweights. In 1948, Rock-Ola Manufacturing was awarded new Patent Number 2,493,620 in Jan 1950, to cover design of their bar-type adjuster.

All of the Shuffleboard Tables we sell include Climatic Adjusters. Champion Shuffleboard and Hudson Shuffleboards both use their respective Climatic Adjusters to setup their playfields to be slightly concave before they ship their shuffleboards. How much concaveness is best? That is a personal preference decision. Major Table Shuffleboard tournaments usually have about 18 thousandths of an inch of concaveness at the ends of the table, tapering down to 12 thousandths of an inch in the center of the table.

Scoring System Options:

What is the best way to keep score in Table Shuffleboard is a commonly asked question. Fortunately, The Shuffleboard Federation offers a wide range of choices, including both manual and electronic scoreboards. To see all of the options, click Shuffleboard Table Scoreboards. We highly recommend that you go with an electronic scoreboard, if possible. Electronic Shuffleboard Scoreboards come in a wide variety of styles, sizes and price points. While manual scorekeepers, like Abacus Style units keep score just fine, an electronic scoreboard make the game more engaging, especially if you’re playing with your kids. All of our Shuffleboard Tables have multiple score keeping options. You can also add many of our scoreboards to an existing table. Whichever options works out best for you, remember, Play Shuffleboard, it’s a great way to spend quality family time and make memories that your children will cherish.

Shuffleboard Table Buyers Guide
Shuffleboard Table Buyers Guide

Shuffleboard Table Sizes

This is the first of several posts about Shuffleboard Table sizes. One of the most common questions about Shuffleboard Tables is “what is the standard size of a regulation size shuffleboard?” Shuffleboard Table sizes range from 9′ to 22′. The wide variety of Shuffleboard Table sizes means that there’s a size for every home or business. Some of the most popular residential Shuffleboard Table Sizes are 12′ Shuffleboards and 16′ Tables. Regulation size Shuffleboard Tables are 22′, with a playing surfaces that are 20′ 8″ long. That is fairly common knowledge, but “how did that become regulation size” is a more interesting.

Shuffleboard Table History Lesson: Back in the 1920’s through the early 1940’s, shuffleboards were commonly available in 28′, 30′ to 32′ lengths. Now, as someone who has setup many 22′ shuffleboards over the past 40 years, I can’t even imagine trying to move one that is 30% to 50% longer, and heavier!

By the 1940’s demand for Shuffleboard Tables was rapidly increasing, with much of the new interest coming from the West Coast. Back then, the largest trucks had an interior space of 21′ long. So, 21′ was the longest item that could be shipped, which lead shuffleboard manufacturers like American Shuffleboard, National Shuffleboard and others to build playing surfaces that were 20′ 8″ long. Once those were in a crate with a 2 x 4 at each end, the length of the crate was 21′. So, had the trucks back then been another foot longer, regulation size for Shuffleboard Tables might have been what seems like an odd size of 23′!

This fascinating information came right from the mouth of Sol Lipkin, aka “The Father of Table Shuffleboard” Sol was involved in the shuffleboard business for nearly 80 years, right up until the time of his death at the ripe old age of 103 years old! His career including Sales Manager positions at Modern Art Shuffleboard, National Shuffleboard and American Shuffleboard. In his later years, he was a consultant to Champion Shuffleboard and a goodwill ambassador for Dave & Buster’s.

She has to concentrate extra hard with her opponent so close. That may have been acceptable back in the day, but would now be considered extremely poor etiquette. Shuffleboard Table sizes back in the day were longer than tables in the modern era.
She has to concentrate extra hard with her opponent so close. That may have been acceptable back in the day, but would now be considered extremely poor etiquette. Shuffleboard Table sizes back in the day were longer than tables in the modern era.
Playing on that pool table must have been extremely challenging!
Spectators packed the house for a big match on the West Virginia Hardwoods Shuffleboard Table!
With three Shuffleboard Tables, this was one of the earliest multi-board establishments.
Look at all those boxing pictures on the wall! This was a “sports bar” long before sports bars became a thing!
Were this guys ahead of their time in using short weight strategy? Or perhaps they were just struggling to push it hard enough to get to the end of this thirty foot +/- Shuffleboard Table!
Hmmm, a shuffleboard weight (also referred to as a shuffleboard puck) in each hand, and a trophy on the playing surface. Was this guy an early trick shot artist? Shuffleboard Table sizes back in the 30’s and 40’s could be described as long and longer!
Check out the wall next to the Shuffleboard Table. Two rules posters, one for House Rules, and one for League Rules. Having rules posted is a great idea, which eliminates most arguments. There’s also a Shuffleboard table advertisement poster.
This picture includes an early manual scoreboard and a House Rules sign. Looks like an exciting frame in progress, with five weights already on the board and the young lady with a weight in hand. Shuffleboard Weights back then were generally made from solid brass and were very slow. Happily, the game has evolved a lot since then. The Shuffleboard Federation’s Pro Series Weights come in five different speeds!
Back then shuffleboard pucks were solid metal and it had to be incredibly difficult sometimes to see which color was which with just a narrow blue or red stripe on the outside perimeter of the weight. Today’s Shuffleboard Weights come standard with highly visible plastic caps. High performance, competition grade weights often include Aluminum Weight Caps for superior grip control.

Learn To Play Table Shuffleboard:The Beginner’s Guide to the Span Shot

Tips For Improving Your Shuffleboard Game

Table Shuffleboard is a great way to unwind, have fun, and enjoy a little healthy competition. As you learn to play Table Shuffleboard, you’ll find that one of the keys to success is developing a variety of different shuffleboard shots. As you embark on a journey to become the top Table Shuffleboard player in your household, recreational team, or professional league, make sure to practice different shooting techniques to figure out what works best for you.

Continue reading “Learn To Play Table Shuffleboard:The Beginner’s Guide to the Span Shot”

Organizing a Table Shuffleboard Tournament? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

You don’t have to be a professional to participate in a Table Shuffleboard tournament. The beauty of this sport is that it can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, you can bring the thrill and excitement of a Table Shuffleboard tournament to your home, office, or local bar. 

Continue reading “Organizing a Table Shuffleboard Tournament? Here’s Everything You Need to Know”

Good Shuffleboard Table Maintenance Starts With Good Quality Powdered Wax

Wiping off the old wax and applying a fresh coat makes the game more enjoyable because it ensures consistent speed, which will help you to generate higher scores on a more consistent basis. It also protects the surface of your Shuffleboard Table.

Continue reading “Good Shuffleboard Table Maintenance Starts With Good Quality Powdered Wax”

Choosing a Shuffleboard Table Size, What Length Is Right For You?

When choosing a Shuffleboard Table size, there are many different lengths to available. Let’s explore all the options when buying a Shuffleboard Table. We know regulation size is 22 feet, but that may not be the perfect size for everyone. Let’s start by breaking down all the Shuffleboard Table dimensions available at The Shuffleboard Federation. 

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Shuffleboard Tables For The Office.

All Work & No Play? How Playing Games Can Help Improve Your Corporate Culture

The coronavirus crisis wreaked havoc on businesses all over the globe, leaving workers feeling disconnected, frazzled, and stressed out like never before. As employees shifted to a remote work environment and doubled down on their productivity, desperate to keep their jobs in a down economy, managers struggled to keep their teams engaged and boost staff morale. Shuffleboard Tables for the Office have facilitated team building, improved employee morale, and greater productivity.

Continue reading “Shuffleboard Tables For The Office.”

Key Considerations When Choosing a Shuffleboard Table

Once you’ve been exposed to Table Shuffleboard, whether you played for the first time at a friend’s house, a community clubhouse, or neighborhood tavern, it’s only natural to want more of this incredible game in your life.

It’s only natural to crave your very own Shuffleboard Table. 

As the go-to source for all things Table Shuffleboard, we know that not all Shuffleboard Tables are created equal, and we’re here to help you make an informed choice. Find the best table for your space and your budget by taking into account all of the following important factors.

Continue reading “Key Considerations When Choosing a Shuffleboard Table”

Shuffleboard Fact and Fiction

Table Shuffleboard vs Deck Shuffleboard. What’s the difference.

If you hear the word “shuffleboard” and instantly envision a group of retirees on the deck of a cruise ship, or a fading triangle painted on the ground of an empty court in a public park, allow us to open your eyes to a whole new world you never knew existed.

Here at The Shuffleboard Federation, to say we’re passionate about table shuffleboard would be a bit of an understatement. Over the past 30+ years, we’ve become the most trusted source for shuffleboard tables for sale online, and we’ve never stopped working to promote the centuries-old — but oft-misunderstood — game we love. Forget everything you thought you knew, and read on to learn just what is and isn’t true about table shuffleboard.

FICTION: There is only one type of shuffleboard.

Table shuffleboard is commonly confused with deck shuffleboard, but the two games are completely distinct from one another. We’ve highlighted the three key differences in this colorful infographic.  

Shuffleboard Fact and Fiction
Continue reading “Shuffleboard Fact and Fiction”

#FlashbackFriday: Darrol Nelson

Darrol Nelson, accepting his first place Pro Singles plaque from Shuffleboard Federation Co-Founder, Phil Skover, at the inaugural North American Shuffleboard Championships, in 1990.

Darrol was considered by many people in the #TableShuffleboard community to be the best singles player in the history of the game.

This was the first of Darrol’s six NASC Pro Singles titles, a record he shares with Bill Melton. No other player has won more than three.

Table Shuffleboard Legends

One week from today I will be on my way to Oregon to attend the celebration of life ceremony for my old friend, Darrol Nelson. When the subject is Table Shuffleboard Legends, one immediately thinks of the great Darrol Nelson, often referred to as the Tiger Woods of Table Shuffleboard. Here’s a picture of Darrol and fellow legendary Hall of Famer, Glen Davidson. It was an honor to have played with those two guys. I’m grateful to have to have had the opportunity to learn from both of them. This picture was taken in 1990, at the first North American Shuffleboard Championships, which was held at the Sahara hotel, in Las Vegas. The Tournament moved to the Sands Regency, in Reno, the following year and has been there ever since.

Two of the top ten players in Table Shuffleboard history, Glen Davidson (L) on Darrol Nelson (R).
Two of the top ten players in Table Shuffleboard history, Glen Davidson (L) on Darrol Nelson (R).

Table Shuffleboard Legends are an integral part of the rich history of the North American Shuffleboard Championships. The NASC Pro Singles is the most coveted title in the sport. In addition to being the most prestigious shuffleboard tournament for pro players, the NASC has also hosted the Hall of Fame inductions for many of the game’s best players. Among the most recent induction ceremonies was the one in 2018 for world #1, Mike Taylor, who was the 37th TSA Hall of Fame. Mike has thrilled us many times over the years with his amazing shot making. See him in action against David Williams, Jr. in one of the best matches you’ll ever see, from the 2018 NASC. Taylor won the NASC Pro Singles for the second time in 2021, making him one of six people who have won the event more than once. He, along with everyone else has a monumental challenge in front of him as he attempts to catch or surpass Darrol Nelson and Bill Melton, each of whom won the event 6 times!

The Continuing Story Of Frisco Eddie, Volume 002

It was late Saturday night when Eddie completed his shift as bartender at the Blue Moon Lounge. He had graduated from his position as “swamper.” The former bartender, Mike, had taught him all he knew about the job before he suddenly passed away.

Eddie had also graduated in shuffleboard. His constant practice and devotion to the game had earned him that right Eddie’s game had now improved beyond the scope of the local players, with few exceptions. There remained but two or three players that offered a challenge. The prospect of beating the out-of-town “hustlers” preyed on his mind, However. Eddie saw the hustlers come and go occasionally. He felt his play was not improved enough that he had a chance against most of them.

One thing the hustlers all had in common was: “go for the juggler,” “never wise up a chump or give a sucker a break” They shied away from the “beer games,” preferring to go for the big bucks. Eddie had contemplated taking on the next big-time player who walked into the Blue Moon. Tonight he would get his chance; Big Al and Two-Hanger Fred strolled in the front door.

“We’ve been hearing a lot about you, Eddie …. Starting to get good, huh?” said Big Al. “How about we see just how good you are.” Eddie hesitated for a moment; he knew this was the biggest challenge of his life. “O.K.,” he replied, “but no walking the board against the two of you.” Big Al smiled knowingly and said, “Let’s get our quarters in, kid-This is where you go to school.” The bar seemed to get a little quieter and darker on that. Saturday night as Eddie approached the shuffleboard. Someday is here, thought Eddie.

Frisco Eddie had been waiting for some time to play the “high rollers” now that his game had improved appreciably. His “someday” wish had become a reality as he was about to begin a money game with “Big Al” from the East Coast.

As the board was being waxed, Eddie reflected on some of the things he must make himself aware of during this session. He had been taught well. (Watch for Al to “dry off” the corners with the outside heel of his hand when he shoots. If he does, start sprinkling some wax and wake them up for the cross-shot lags. No “palming” of the weights on the lags; the moisture on the bottom of the weight could slow it down by a foot or more. Any moisture, i.e., “spit” on the outside “hitting” surface of the weight will make it “run,” especially if a small amount of wax was added to that surface. Don’t let him get away with”nudging” or “bumping” the board when he shoots if I have a hanger up.)

There were a hundred other things flashing through Eddie’s mind as the quarters went into the slot. The board was waxed and ready to go. “How much would you like to start for, Eddie?” asked Big Al. “We came a long way and me and Two-Hanger are splitting the action.” “How about a hundred a game for now,” Eddie replied. “O.K. call the toss,” said Al. (Eddie recalled that out of thousands of coin-toss decisions, heads came up with a very slight edge.) “Heads,” said Eddie. Heads it was. The game was on.

Big Al began by “testing” the right-cross lag shot which was his favorite. Eddie stuck on the deep deuce. “You are improving, kid Hope you can keep it up all night because one of us will leave here broke,” said Big Al. “Don’t worry about the horse, man, just load the wagon,” Eddie replied.
As the game progressed, Big Al and Two-Hanger Fred realized they were now involved with a formidable Opponent. Eddie was “sticking,” he was “lagging,” his “short-weight” game was where it belonged, and he had a good “expanded-hand” shot, in addition to his normal “jersey” game.

As the clock ticked on through the night, Eddie progressed consistently toward the winner’s circle. He was actually beating the “Big Man.” Big Al had tried every trick he knew, to no avail. It was now nine in the morning. Frisco Eddie had them stuck for $4,000. “How much do you guys want to play for this game?” Eddie asked. “How about a thousand?” said Two-Hanger Fred. “How much of that is guts?” Eddie replied. (He knew they were close to being broke.) “‘What the hell do you mean by that?” said Two-Hanger. “O.K., then,” said Eddie. “You won’t mind putting the bet on the table so we can all see where we stand.”

Big Al and Two-Hanger had a conference; they had $200 between them. “We’ll just play for $200 then,” said Big Al as he placed the money up. “O.K., let’s get it on then,” said Eddie. (He remembered how these men worked — “never give a sucker a break.”) He would have to win and “clean them out” now, or God only knew what would happen next. The game was on and Eddie was shaky. He had never been in a marathon game before.

As the game progressed, the score was 11 to 14 in Big Al’s favor, with two of Al’s red weights blocking Eddie’s right-hand lag. (Now or never, thought Eddie.) Big Al made a snide remark and then coughed loudly just as Eddie was releasing his final left-hand lag. Even with this distraction, the weight felt good and was on track. Eddie held his breath as the weight settled into a very deep three left cross. However, it was still spinning from the jersey lag. ‘When the spinning had finally stopped (it seemed like an eternity to Eddie), the weight had gently edged its way another half-inch forward — into a four!

Eddie had one it! He had “busted” them! Eddie had faithful watchers and after the excitement had died down, Eddie walked over to Big Al’s table. He told them to hang onto the $400 which had been put up for “traveling expenses.” As they were leaving the bar, Big Al turned to Eddie and said, “You must know, Eddie, that we — or someone else like us — will be seeing you again real soon. You’re into the game now, kid — and we won’t let you go.” “I’m sure of that,” Eddie replied. “Take it easy.”

The sky was beginning to cloud up as Frisco Eddie left the Blue Moon Lounge after his first “real” session. “Someday” was glorious, thought Eddie. ‘Then, remembering Al’s final words, he wondered, is a life full of “somedays” what I really want?

#FlashbackFriday, 8/16/19

NASC Rewind: 2011, NASC XXII

The start of NASC XXX is only ten weeks from tonight! The evening of Friday, 10/25, includes the Champions Dinner, and the draft and auction for the Pro/Am Draft Team Event. So, it seems appropriate to review this blast from the past video of the 2011 NASC, along with some pictures from previous Champions Dinners, and Harrah’s Steak House.

NASC XXII Rewind
What an honor to sit between these two all time greats!
One of my favorite Champions Dinner pics!
Everyone but Jim Payne is having fun!
Ali, preparing his famous Cafe Diablo!
Steak & Lobster
The incredible Five Onion Soup, served in a jumbo onion!!
Ozzie, preparing Steak Diane table side.
Mouth watering Ahi Tuna.
Caesar Salad, prepared table side. Watching them make the
dressing from scratch is almost as enjoyable as eating the salad.
After dinner chocolates, served over dry ice.

#ThrowbackThursday, 8/15/19

2010 Sol Lipkin Award Presentation
to Lorraine Olson, at NASC XXI

This was the year that Sol died. It was a great honor for all of us to have his son, Bruce, make the Sol Lipkin Award presentation to Lorraine. Prior to the presentation, there were some great stories and hilarious moments as numerous people paid tribute to Lorraine, a most deserving recipient of The Shuffleboard Federation’s highest honor.

Shuffleboard Wax Buyers Guide: How To Pick The Right Wax For Your Shuffleboard Table

Get the most out of your shuffleboard game by choosing the right speed of powdered wax for your board.

What brand and speed of shuffleboard sand you use can have a significant impact on the enjoyment level that you receive from your Shuffleboard Table. When it comes to powdered wax, choosing the right speed is key. But with so many different speeds of powdered wax to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you?

Player Skill Level – Take into account the skill level of the players who will be using the table. For novice players, a slower speed wax might be a better choice. Advanced or professional players generally prefer a faster speed waxes.

Table Type – The age, condition, and type of finish on your shuffleboard table can all play a role in how fast or slow your table plays. For example, a newer table with a slicker surface will play faster than an older, worn table, if the same speed powder was used on both.

Climate Conditions – Climate can affect the performance of your shuffleboard wax. For example, high humidity can increase tracking as well as make the wax tacky and slower, whereas the same wax would be noticeably faster in very dry climates.

Wax Type – Different manufacturers offer different speed ranges for their powdered waxes. Make sure to read the label carefully to ensure that you are selecting the appropriate speed range for your needs.

Kind of Weights/Pucks – One additional consideration, and this is extremely important. The type of Shuffleboard Weights (pucks), will have an enormous impact on how fast your table plays. Shuffleboard Pucks come in three different shapes on the bottom side. They are, in the order of fastest to slowest, flat, rounded, and pointed.

Our best-selling Ultra Glide T4, might be uncontrollably fast with flat bottom weights. With weights that are rounded on the bottom (which all of the highest quality weights have), T4 would be very playable, albeit it should still only be used on longer shuffleboards.

When selecting the right speed of powdered wax, start with a slower wax and gradually move up the speed range until you find the right one for your table and playing style. It’s always better to start with a slower option in the beginning. Nothing is more frustrating than a table that is so fast that it is prohibitively difficult to keep the pucks on the board and make it tough to score consistently.

The Shuffleboard Federation offers eleven different Shuffleboard Speed Powder products. They come in two broad categories, Regular Grade (R1, R2, R3, and R4), and Tournament Grade (T0 (coming soon), T1 (coming soon), T2, T3, T4, and T5). We also sell our White Lightning Speed Regulator, which can help you fine tune the speed of your wax.

One of the questions we are most often asked is whether our Shuffleboard Waxes contain ground walnut shells. Walnut shells have been used as a principal component of The Shuffleboard Federation’s Ultra Glide™ Powdered Shuffleboard Table Wax products for over 25 years. Through a proprietary mix of finely ground walnut shells and White Lightning® Speed Regulator, The Shuffleboard Federation has developed the most consistent table shuffleboard powders available. Because of the use of walnut-based materials, The Shuffleboard Federation often receives questions related to walnut allergies and allergic reactions.

Walnuts (Juglandaceae) are a member of the Tree Nut family, and as such, have been reported to cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Tree Nut allergy is common, and reactions range from mild itching of the mouth to anaphylaxis. The reported incidence of Tree Nut allergies varies based on region, age, race/ethnicity, and the definition used for diagnosis but typically affects ~0.05%–2.0% of the population, with children being the most highly affected group. Specifically, walnuts have been estimated to contribute 20-30% [MM([3] of the total Tree Nut allergy incidence in the United States.

Nearly all reported allergic reactions to walnuts are the result of ingestion of the dried fruit (or kernel). Through component-resolved diagnostics, at least 5 different proteins (Jug r 1-5) have been identified in the walnut kernel that can cause allergic reactions in people. These proteins have not been shown to occur in the walnut shell. Ingestion is not anticipated to occur under normal use conditions for Table Shuffleboard Wax.

Walnut shell has not been shown to cause skin sensitization through exposure. That said, walnut shell Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and warning labels for products containing walnut shells often recognize risks of allergic reaction. This is typically due to the potential for trace amounts of walnut kernel to remain in the shell during processing and thus enter the finished product. Walnut shells are regularly used in the cosmetic industry as an abrasive exfoliant where extensive skin exposure occurs without incident. Similarly, skin contact is not considered a hazard for shuffleboard wax containing walnut shells. Walnut shells have not been shown to present an acute toxicity hazard.

There are several case reports of contact dermatitis and skin hyperpigmentation related to dermal exposure to the green outer flesh (hull or husk) of walnuts during harvest or preliminary processing. The active aromatic napthoquinone (Juglone) has been shown to cause the irritation. Juglone has been isolated from the hull but has not been identified in the shell of the walnut, and skin irritation or dermatitis has not been reported for the dried shell.

Disclaimer: The following review of available data for walnut allergies is for informational purposes and provides an overview for the general population. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider for any individual concerns, conditions, or treatments.

From fast to slow, we have the perfect speed for every skill level, table, and pucks. Our suggestion is to use the chart below to pick one can each of three different speeds and experiment until you determine which product is best suited for your needs.

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Tips for Improving Your Table Shuffleboard Game

Heirloom Lancaster Shuffleboard Table

The thrill of landing your weight exactly where you had aimed, the rush of excitement to hear your name being announced as the champion— these feelings of elation are hard to mimic outside of Table Shuffleboard. But you already know this, and that’s why you’re on a quest to become the greatest Table Shuffleboard player of all time. We understand, and we’re here to help!

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