Bar Billiards Rules
Bar Billiards Rules
Bar Billiards, also known as Russian Billiards, is a beloved game in the UK, particularly in the south of England and the Channel Islands. This unique version of Billiards has a rich history dating back to Russia and has evolved to become a popular pub game. In this article, we'll explore the rules, equipment, and strategies for playing Bar Billiards.
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| Photo credit: Phil Wiffen (source) |
The Origin and Popularity of Bar Billiards
Bar Billiards, often referred to as 'billard russe' in Russia, found its way to the UK in the 1930s through an Englishman named David Gill, who first witnessed it being played in Belgium. This game is distinguished by its table, which resembles a standard Billiards table but features holes instead of pockets. The All England Bar Billiards Association, consisting of various county associations, governs the rules and administration of the game. Despite the name, the Bar Billiards World Championship is mainly contested by players from the UK.
Object of the Game
The primary objective of Bar Billiards is to outscore your opponent by the time the game concludes. While competition is a key element, the game is often enjoyed in a social and recreational setting, making it a popular choice in pubs.
Players & Equipment
A Bar Billiards table closely resembles a smaller Billiards table, measuring 56” x 33.5”. Unlike traditional Billiards tables, Bar Billiards tables lack pockets and instead have holes sunk into the table. There are five holes in a row at one end of the table and four in a diamond pattern on the other half.
Balls and Skittles
Bar Billiards uses balls similar to those in Snooker and Billiards, including seven white balls and one red ball. Skittles, often resembling mushrooms, are also part of the equipment. The black skittle is strategically placed in front of the 200-point hole, while other skittles can be arranged in several formations, depending on regional preferences.
1. 1 black skittle and 3 red skittles
2. 1 black skittle, 2 white, and 1 red
3. 1 black skittle, 2 white or 2 red
The specific arrangement can vary depending on the region in the UK where the game is played.
Scoring
Scoring in Bar Billiards is based on potting balls in the holes. Players take a shot by selecting a white or red ball from the trough at the end of the table and using the cue to strike another ball on the table, aiming to sink it into one of the holes. Each hole has a different point value, ranging from 10 points to 200. Players often choose to play with the red ball as it doubles the points earned for each pocket.
However, it's essential to be mindful of fouls, which can result in point deductions. Common fouls include:
1. Causing a skittle to fall over.
2. A ball returning behind the baulk line.
3. Taking a shot and failing to hit another ball.
4. Playing a shot that causes a ball to leave the table.
When a player commits a foul, their turn ends, and they lose all the points earned during that turn. If the black skittle is knocked over, the player's score resets to zero.
Winning the Game
Bar Billiards games are typically played on coin-operated machines, and the duration of each game is determined by the payment. A typical game lasts between 15 and 20 minutes. The player with the highest score when the game timer runs out is declared the winner.
Rules of Bar Billiards
To ensure a fair game, specific rules are followed:
1. The game begins with a coin flip to determine the starting player.
2. The starting player selects a white or red ball from the trough, positions it in the "D," and attempts to strike another ball into a hole to score points.
3. If a player successfully scores, they continue their turn until they fail to make a scoring shot or commit a foul.
4. The opposing player then takes their turn, attempting to pot a ball to score points.
5. Players take turns, accumulating points until the game timer expires and the Bar Billiards table stops operating.
6. The player with the highest score at the end of the game is declared the winner.
In conclusion, Bar Billiards is an engaging and enjoyable pub game that combines strategy with a social and fun atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned player or a novice, understanding the rules and tactics of the game can lead to hours of entertainment and friendly competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the history of Bar Billiards?
- Bar Billiards has its origins in Russia and was introduced to the UK in the 1930s by an Englishman named David Gill.
2. How is Bar Billiards different from traditional Billiards?
- Bar Billiards is played on a smaller table with holes instead of pockets, and it has unique scoring rules.
3. What are the typical skittle arrangements in Bar Billiards?
- Skittle arrangements can vary, but the black skittle is usually placed in front of the 200-point hole.
4. What happens if a player commits a foul in Bar Billiards?
- Players lose all the points earned during their turn if they commit a foul, and if the black skittle is knocked over, their score resets to zero.
5. Where can I play Bar Billiards?
- Bar Billiards is predominantly played in pubs in the southern regions of England and the Channel Islands.
