Russian pyramid exposes a table's weaknesses quickly. Large balls and demanding tolerances make a tilted bed, inconsistent cushion or unsuitable cloth easy to notice. Choose the table for a defined ruleset and workload.
Bed geometry
Compare the playing field, rail height and pocket placement with the technical requirements of the discipline. Slate gives a stable base, but its joins must be finished flush. A wooden bed is a reasonable home option only when the manufacturer specifies it for that use.
Cushions, pockets and cloth
The cushion profile controls rebound, while pocket shape controls acceptance. Ask for the cloth construction, colour, tension method and ball compatibility. Decorative cabinet details cannot compensate for inaccurate playing geometry.
Installation and acceptance
Large pyramid tables are delivered in sections. Installation covers levelling, slate joining, rail fitting and cloth tensioning. After installation, check several directions with a level, roll a ball through the centre and inspect joins under side lighting.
Specify before ordering
Record the pyramid ruleset, bed material, cushion model, pocket configuration, installation warranty and spare-cloth availability. A club should also schedule follow-up levelling and recovering before opening the table to heavy use.