Shuffleboard Rules Game Pigeon? The 13 New Answer

Outdoor shuffleboard

gear

To play

Punish

The disc touches the 10 area line before it is played – 5s.

Disc touches sideline or side of triangle while being played – 10 out.

Any part of a player’s body that extends beyond or touches the baseline when playing a disc – deduction 10

Shooting at an opponent’s disc – 10 out.

Points

Deck shuffleboard

gear

To play

A full outdoor shuffleboard court is a long rectangle with scoring areas at both ends. The overall length of the course is 52 feet and the following areas are drawn from both ends. A line is drawn across the field six and a half feet from the end. This is the “baseline” and the area from the end to the baseline is called the “shooting area”. From this line to the next line, one and a half feet further is the “10 Off” area. The edges of the 10’s are slightly reduced by two slanting lines at the same angle as the scoring triangle described next. The 10’s area is also divided into left and right sides by a small, thin triangle in the middle. The second line forms the base of an isosceles triangle, the scoring area, the apex of which is another three meters below the pitch. The triangle is divided into five areas, namely: a line is drawn 3 feet from the top and the small triangle outlining it is marked “10”; The remaining area of ​​the scoring triangle is halved both horizontally and vertically to form four areas. The two areas next to the 10-area are labeled “8” and the two areas next to the 10-out area are labeled “7”. A further 3ft from the top of the scoring triangle is another line across the field known as the ‘dead line’ – discs must cross the line to be counted as in play. Slices must be six inches in diameter, between nine-sixteenths and one inch thick, and usually weigh 15 ounces. Two sets of four discs of contrasting colors are used to play the game – yellow and black being the traditional shades. The cues used to push the discs are in the form of a long pole with two short prongs at the end, spaced a little less than a disc width apart. Cues must be less than six and a half feet long. The players (or teams of two players, one at each end) take turns during a game. Flip a coin to decide who plays yellow and who plays black; Yellow begins the first end. Players take turns pushing discs. To begin, the four yellow discs are placed in the right half of the 10’s area and the black discs are placed in the left side, with the small thin triangle in the center of this area defining the middle boundary of each side. Each disc must be played with one cue and the sliding motion must start within the 10’s area and end within the scoring triangle. If a disc does not reach the farthest dead line, it is immediately removed from play. Any disc that falls over the edge of the field is also immediately removed from play. Of course, players will aim to slide their own discs into scoring areas or strategically advantageous positions, as well as attempting to knock opponent discs out of play or into the 10’s area. Illegal discs are immediately removed from the game. Any disks that have been moved by a interfering disk are also removed immediately. Such an opponent’s discs are returned to the opponent for play again. For discs removed in this way that were in the 10-off area before the foul shot, the offender is penalized with 10 points. Scoring occurs once all eight targets have been played and is based on the areas marked on the field with 10 points being deducted for all targets in the 10 area. A disc must be entirely within one of the five areas and must not touch the outlines of that area to score the amount marked therein. Disks outside the 10’s range are ignored. However, when evaluating the 10 penalty area, the small triangle delimiting the left and right halves of the 10 area is ignored. Discs still count if they are on another disc. The judges should position the eye directly over any discussionally positioned discs to decide whether or not to touch a line. The game is won by the first person to reach 75 points, although this cannot be achieved during a game – all eight discs of the last game must be played and scores calculated before a player can claim victory. Also known as peel billiards and deck billiards. A deck shuffleboard court usually consists of two oval scoring areas separated by a distance of 30 feet. Within each oval, the central portion is in the shape of a square divided into 9 sub-squares numbered 8, 1, 6, 3, 5, 7, 4, 9, 2 from left to right. Note that any diagonal or orthogonal row of 3 numbers equals 15 – it’s a magic square. The top and bottom edges of the square form the straight sides of two adjacent semi-circles that are glued to the top and bottom of the square to form the oval shape. The distant semi-circle usually scores 10 points, while the near semi-circle usually scores -10 points (i.e. penalty points). Each oval scoring area is 6 feet front to back. One foot past the extreme tip of each oval is the gentleman’s line. 2 feet in front of the near top of each oval is the women’s line. The game is played with eight wooden discs, about 6 inches in diameter, which are pushed across the deck by the standing players with long cues. Each cue is a stick with a “shoe” on the other end. The shoe is a rectangular piece of wood with a semi-circle cut into the other side so that it fits snugly around a disc. 4 discs are marked with one color, the other four with a different color. Players toss a coin to decide who starts first (note – playing second is advantageous) and then take turns pushing discs past the gentleman’s line toward the target area. It is legitimate and often desirable to bang discs against each other, changing the position of your discs for the better or your opponent’s for the worse. Any disc that does not reach the queen line is immediately removed from play. Once all discs have been pushed, all discs that are entirely within a scoring area and do not touch a line count the declared value. Players then begin a new “end” by playing behind the gentleman’s line at the opposite end towards the other target area. The first player to reach the win total, which is usually 50 or 100 points, wins. The game lends itself to doubles where each partner plays from the same end throughout the game.

Shuffleboard is a game of disputed origins, believed to have started in Europe around 500 to 600 years ago. It involves the use of paddles to “push” pucks toward a target area, and has many variations within the game, as well as alternative names, including deck shuffleboard and shovel board. King Henry VIII was a huge fan of the game and was a big fan of it! It shares similarities with many sports, notably bocce ball, curling and, in its table form, air hockey. In this article, we’re only going to deal with shuffleboard itself.

subject matter of the game

The object of the game is simply to use the racquet to propel the weighted pucks into the scoring zone to win points.

Players & Equipment

Shuffleboard is played by either two players (singles, one against one) or four players (doubles, two against two). It is played on an outdoor court that is 52 feet long and 10 feet wide, although there are different dimensions on new portable and indoor courts.

The course has scoring triangles at both ends, which players can stand a further two meters behind while playing to the other end. The triangle is divided into dot zones, with 10 at the top, closest to the players, then eight, then seven, with the last two forming left and right areas with a central division. At the base of the triangle is the “10 OFF” penalty zone.

Players use a paddle-like stick called a tang to propel the pucks (called cookies) toward the scoring triangle. The tang or cue must not be longer than 6 feet 3 inches. The player who goes first (usually decided by a coin toss) uses the yellow cookies while the second player uses black ones, and the cookies are 6 inches in diameter and no thicker than 1 inch.

Points

Players take turns “sending” the cookies with the goal of getting as many as possible into the scoring zones. Scores are only counted after all eight (four each) pucks have been shot and the puck must be completely within the scoring zone to be counted – those that touch the line do not count.

It is legal to aim one’s own shots at a player’s puck to take it out of the goal zone or even into the 10-OFF zone, for which a player will be penalized -10 points. If a player’s puck is on the 10 OFF line, the player will receive a five-point penalty. Players also lose 10 points if they shoot the cookie off the field, even if they touch the sideline.

win the game

The winner is the first to reach a predefined goal, usually 75 points, or the player with the highest score after 10 full rounds, whichever comes first. If both players or sides reach 75 in the same round, the player with the highest score is the winner.

Shuffleboard Rules

If you’re looking to improve your game, brushing up on some basic shuffleboard tips is a good first step. To become the grand champion of the shuffleboard tables, you must be an accomplished player. To improve your skills you need to understand how shuffleboard pucks move across the board, which leads you to figure out why they slide or don’t slide in certain directions. As with many other tabletop games, the ability to control the direction of the puck is entirely in your hands.

Proper handling of a puck

Before we dive into some more specific shuffleboard tips, let’s refresh on the proper way to hold and shoot shuffleboard pucks. Place the puck on the tabletop with your dominant hand and hold it there. Your palm should cover the top of the puck, with your thumb behind the puck and closest to you. Lightly touch the sides of the puck, but don’t let your fingers touch the tabletop.

To get an idea of ​​the speed of the table, slide the puck up and down a few times without releasing it. When you’re finally ready to shoot the puck, simply extend your elbow forward and move your hand in the direction you want to shoot. Release the puck and watch as you land a coveted hanger.

puck placement

Unless you’re a pro, you’ll probably need a little more practice before you can just toss hangers left and right. Basic shuffleboard mastery is all about where your pucks land on the table and how they interact with your opponent’s pucks. Because of this, learning how to shoot shuffleboard pucks well is important to facing the challenge of a good game. Although the main goal is to get your pucks as far down the table as possible, there are other ways you can use your pucks to score more points for yourself or prevent your opponent from scoring.

Advanced Techniques

As your shuffleboard skills grow, you can start using some more advanced techniques. The first thing you can do is learn how to play with both hands. Sometimes you have a better chance on one side of the table than the other. Using both hands gives you a free hand to develop angled shots.

Another method, particularly for improved accuracy, is a shuffleboard tip known as side-wheeling. This refers to shooting from an outside edge of the board rather than the center. The third and fourth fingers of your shooting hand balance along the side of the table and serve as a guide for a more accurate shot.

A third technique you can use is the English backspin, a move borrowed from billiards. Using the thumb and forefinger, the English acts like a brake on the puck, increasing the chances of your puck staying on the board.

Shooting shuffleboard pucks may seem easy at first, but there’s more to the game than meets the eye. Because the surface of shuffleboard tables is coated with wax, pucks can slide long distances on the playing surface. Therefore, the importance of puck control is obvious. Try some of these shuffleboard tips and hopefully you’ll improve your puck control and turn into a shuffleboard powerhouse.

Here’s our complete guide to playing shuffleboard, including rules, scoring, technique, and game types.

You can use this table of contents to navigate to each section of the guide:

introduction

Table shuffleboard is one of my favorite bar games.

One of the reasons I love it so much is that pretty much anyone can play shuffleboard. And most people love it immediately too.

The rules of the game are simple, but playing it well requires skillful touch, keen accuracy, and calculated strategy.

Some people see a shuffleboard in a bar and decide the game looks weird or complicated. They decide it’s not for them. If this is you, you’re missing out.

Don’t worry. After reading this guide you will know everything you need to know about playing shuffleboard.

So next time you find a bar with a shuffleboard table, you’ll be ready to join the fun.

How to Play Knock Off Shuffleboard

The classic way to play table shuffleboard is known as “knock off.” Whether you play at home or see people playing in a bar, this is most likely the game you will be playing.

Knock Off can be played with two or four people. Or you can just play and practice solo.

Here’s a snapshot of how to play Knock Off Shuffleboard:

Knock Off Shuffleboard with two people

You and your opponent will be at the same end of the table.

Decide who gets the red and who gets the blue pucks. There are eight pucks in total. These are also called weights.

Now decide how many points you want to play for. The default numbers are 15 or 21.

You take turns pushing your pucks to the opposite end of the table.

Your goal is to shoot your puck across the table as far as possible without falling off.

Your puck must pass over your opponent’s farthest puck to score a goal. It must land in a scoring section, of which there are three. However, if the puck hangs over the outside edge, it is worth 4 points (so-called “hanging”; more on this below).

Only one player can score per round.

You can also poke your opponent’s pucks off the side or end of the table. That’s why it’s called a knock-off.

You can also make contact with your own pucks to put them in better goal positions.

After you’ve shot all 8 pucks, you’ve completed a round.

Both players now go to opposite sides of the table to check puck positions.

Do not touch any pucks until both players have agreed on the score for that round.

After determining the score, you start the next round at that end of the table.

Rounds continue until a player reaches either 15 or 21 points.

Four person knock off shuffleboard

Knock Off Shuffleboard is also fun for four.

First select your teams of two.

You and your teammate stand at opposite ends of the table, each standing next to an opposing player.

They remain at your end of the table throughout the game. No changing sides in this one.

Otherwise it is the same as the two-person version.

You and your opponent take turns sliding to the opposite end.

Try pushing your puck into goal positions. Only the farthest puck(s) of the same color count. You can also hit pucks off the table.

And with team shuffleboard, a bonus is that your partner can offer some advice from the other side.

After you agree on the result for that round, the next team starts shooting from their side of the table.

Four-person games are usually played until one team reaches 15 or 21 points.

Playing doubles is a great way to increase the social aspect of the game and get more people involved.

How to keep score in Table Shuffleboard

As mentioned earlier, most games end when a player reaches 15 or 21 points.

15 points is the standard number used in official tournament play.

Many people still play to 21 points though. Unless the rules for the bar or house shuffleboard state otherwise, the number is up to you.

In Knock Off, the first player or team to reach 15 (or 21) wins.

There is no “win-by-two” with the classic table shuffleboard.

Shuffleboard Points

Points only go to the farthest puck (or pucks) of the same color.

The shuffleboard table has three scoring sections. The first zone awards 1 point per puck. And all pucks must completely cross the middle foul line to be eligible for points.

At most shuffleboard tables, the foul line is in the middle of the table. If your puck does not cross the foul line, it is out of play. Remove it from the table.

The second and third scoring zones award 2 and 3 points, respectively. A puck must be entirely within a scoring zone and not touch the preceding line to be eligible for those points.

If any part of the puck is on the preceding line, it only scores on the bottom.

If it’s too close to call, try to get over the puck to look down. From this angle, if you can see even a piece of wood between the puck and the line, it will score in the higher scoring zone. Do not shake the table or move pucks while leaning on the table.

A hanger is worth 4 points

A “hanger” scores when any part of a puck extends beyond the edge of the end of the table. Even if there is only one sliver over the edge at the end of the table, it is still a “hanger” and worth 4 points.

If the puck falls off the edge before your opponent’s shot, they are out of play and do not score.

Players can agree to make hangers “safe” by pushing the puck back to the table. (This is a custom shuffleboard courtesy and is included in the official shuffleboard rules.)

If you can’t tell if the puck is a hanger, here’s a simple trick:

Lay a puck on its side and press the top end against the end of the playing surface. Now slide the puck along the end of the table.

When that puck touches the controversial stick, you know part of that puck was hanging over the end of the table.

That would be worth 4 points.

Table Shuffleboard Game Rules

Now that you have a basic understanding of how to play knock-off shuffleboard and how to count points, here’s a deeper dive into the rules that apply to standard games.

Before the game

1) Games are played to 15 points

While you can play to 21 or any other number, an official match is played to 15.

The first player or team to reach 15 points wins.

2) Before the first round, determine who will shoot last in the round by tossing a coin.

The last shot (the “Hammer”) is beneficial. It gives you one last chance to move (or remove) pucks in your favor.

In subsequent rounds, the player who scored in the previous round shoots first. If no one hit, take turns depending on who just shot last.

3) Stand next to your opponent and shoot the opposite end.

They should take turns shooting (i.e. shooting red, then shooting blue) until all 8 pucks have been shuffled. When you play doubles, your partner is at the other end of the table and you don’t switch sides.

4) Stand with at least one foot behind the table.

You can lean forward and even use the cradle for support, but one foot must always remain on the floor behind the shuffleboard table.

collect points

5) A puck must be entirely within a zone (1, 2 or 3) to score a goal

If any part of the puck is on the previous line, it is only eligible for the lower points of the previous segment. If he touches the foul line, he is out of play. You can see better if he’s on the line by standing up and looking down at the puck.

6) If any part of the puck hangs over the end of the table it is worth 4 points

Also known as “hangers,” these shots can be “made safe” (i.e. pushed back a little towards the table) in consultation with the players.

7) After a round, do not touch any pucks until you have agreed on the score for that round

When the round is over, go to the other end of the table and count the score.

Do not move pucks until both players have viewed the pucks and agreed on the total score for that round.

If the leading pucks are tied and it is not clear who is furthest, there is no score for that round. Again, in this situation, it’s best to walk across the pucks and look down to judge which one is furthest away.

Basic shuffleboard game etiquette

8) Do not shake or move the table

You can lean on the table with your non-shooting hand, but do not move or shake the table in any way.

Shaking or moving the table during a shot is a 1-point penalty and the offending player or team shoots first in the next round.

9) Don’t distract your opponent

When it’s not your turn, you should always stand behind your opponent when he or she shuffles.

As with golf, you should not obstruct an opponent’s line of sight or distract them. Also, you are not allowed to touch the table while your opponent is on top.

10) Hold only one puck when it is your turn to act

Before play, all pucks in the trough should be visible and counted.

When it is your turn to shuffle, only hold a single puck. Do not hold another puck in your non-shooting hand.

11) Do not hold or take a puck out of the pit while your opponent is shooting

All pucks must remain in the trough and may not be picked up until it is your turn to shoot.

12) Do not touch the table surface when shooting

You can lean on the cradle, but don’t touch the actual playing surface.

You also cannot touch the playing surface when an opponent shoots.

13) If you see a dry spot on the board, you can add some powder

This is possible during your turn.

14) In team games, do not go beyond the foul line to check puck positions

But again, your teammate can tell you where your puck is and give you advice from across the table.

In singles games you can walk to the other end to view the exact position of your pucks when it is your turn. However, don’t do this while your opponent is firing.

15) If the recording lasts longer than 30 seconds, “slow play” is

It’s okay to take your time. However, according to tournament rules, a shot lasting more than 30 seconds is “slow play”.

The clock starts as soon as your opponent’s previous shot has completely stopped.

The first time you exceed the 30-second time limit in tournament play, you will receive a warning. The second time results in a penalty of 1 point.

Not everyone applies a strict time limit during a friendly. But it can be helpful when you have others to play with and need to speed things up at the bar.

16) In team matches you can take 1 time-out per round, 3 time-outs per game

When playing in teams of two, you can take official time-outs to consult with your partner. Official rules state that this can only happen after you reach 10 points.

You can take 1 time-out per round, but no more than 3 time-outs per game. The 30 second time limit does not apply during timeouts.

Fouls and Penalties

17) If your puck leaves the table surface, it is out of play

Even if your puck miraculously recovers and rebounds, it’s still considered a dead puck and out of play.

18) Flipped pucks are not out of play

A puck that tips over on contact is not out of play. Flip it right side up and keep going.

19) Wait for your opponent’s puck to come to a complete stop before shuffling

This is an important one. Do not slide your puck until your opponent’s puck has come to a complete stop. This means that there is no more forward movement.

If you shoot while your opponent’s puck is in motion and knock that puck off the table, you incur a penalty. You must return your opponent’s puck to its original position (or as close as possible), and your puck is removed from the table for that round.

20) If you accidentally shoot first, you must stay in that order

Whoever has the hammer in a round but still shoots first must maintain this order until the end of the round. But your opponent may agree to restart in the correct rotation.

21) No color change during a game

If you pick up the wrong color puck and shoot it, you can replace it with the correct color. But you can’t change the color at any time after the game has started.

22) After the game . . .

Wipe down the board and apply a light powder with fresh powder for the next game. The winner stays tuned.

Other ways to play shuffleboard

Although Knock Off is by far the most popular way to play table shuffleboard, there are some other fun games you can try.

Here are three of our favorite games besides Knock Off. Remember that the basic shuffle board rules above apply unless otherwise noted.

Crazy Eights

Crazy Eights is a fun game for a few players or a larger group.

Each player shoots all eight pucks. You start with 4 of the same color and shoot them all at once.

Then you aim at the first 4 pucks with the next color and shoot each one individually.

Your goal is to knock every first color puck off the table and leave at least one or more second color pucks on the table to score a goal.

Each player is allowed to finish the frame and the highest score equal to or greater than the agreed game points (e.g. 1 point, 15 points, 21 points, etc.) is declared the winner.

How to Play Crazy Eights Shuffleboard

Players decide on a number of points they must reach in order to win. This can be any number that determines the group (e.g. 1 point, 5 points, 15 points, 21 points, etc.).

Each player starts with all 8 pucks (red and blue) per round.

In each round you first shoot all 4 pucks of the same color with one hand. This is a single shot with 4 pucks in a group.

All first 4 pucks must cross the long foul line (closer to the opposite end) and stay on the table.

If a single puck doesn’t cross the line or falls off the table, your turn is over and the next player is up and shooting from the opposite end.

If all 4 pucks cross the foul line and stay on the table, shoot the next 4 pucks in a row.

. Your goal is to knock all previous pucks off the table.

Only pucks that remain on the table after the first color pucks have been knocked off are scored.

If one of the first 4 pucks stays on the table, there is no score. Either way, it’s the next player’s turn.

Each player has a turn to shoot 8 pucks in each frame. Even if you reach the allotted point total, all players still have a chance.

If you’re the last to shoot (the “Hammer”) and score at least as many points as advertised, you win. If there is a tie with another player, those players will shoot an extra round to use the points in that round to determine who wins.

Points are awarded as in traditional shuffleboard (1, 2, 3, or hanging 4). To score in a higher scoring zone, the puck must completely cross the previous line to count.

For example, if the puck touches the line even before the “2” section, that only counts as a “1”.

Good players will try to knock as many of the first 4 pucks off the table as possible with every single shot. So if you manage to hit all 4 reds with your first blue puck (quite a shot!) you’d have an open table to rack up some points.

Tap and draw

Tap & Draw, the friendlier and gentler version of Knock Off, is a great 1v1 shuffleboard game.

In Tap & Draw, you are penalized if you knock your opponent’s puck off the table. You’re still trying to get your pucks into better goal zones.

But you don’t have the advantage of playing defense or earning points by clearing out your opponent’s pucks.

How to play Tap & Draw

Flip a coin to see who goes first and assign colors (red or blue).

Decide on which number you want to play.

Only pucks further down the board than your opponent’s highest-scoring puck count (same as Knock Off).

You can try to get your puck into better goal positions by tapping it forward without hitting it in the gutter.

If you hit your opponent’s puck in the trough, his puck will be returned to its original position. Your puck is removed from the table.

If, when you knocked your opponent’s puck off the table, any of your other pucks were moved to better goal positions, they will be returned to their original spots. Your opponent’s puck is returned to its original spot.

If you knock one of your opponent’s pucks into better goal positions, they stay there.

Take turns shooting with your opponent until all 8 pucks have been shuffled.

After a single round, go to the other end and count the total before moving pucks. Then start the next round from that end.

Points are counted according to the basic rules of shuffleboard.

That is, each puck must completely cross the previous line to count in the high point zone.

Hangers are worth 4 points.

And you usually play to 15. Although that number is really up to you (21 is also common).

Three strikes

Three Strikes is a fun shuffleboard game for small or large groups of players. This game is not played in teams; it is every man for himself.

The aim of the game is to get more points than the previous player.

If you don’t score more points than the player in front of you, you get a strike. After three strikes you’re out.

The last player standing wins.

How to play Three Strikes

Each player shoots 4 pucks per round.

The 4 pucks include: 3 of the same color (e.g. red) and 1 of different colors (blue).

The 3 red pucks are your point pucks. The single blue puck is the “multiplier”. The pucks can be shot in any order.

You shoot all the pucks towards the opposite end like in other games. The scoring zones are the same (1, 2, 3 and 4 for a hanger).

However, the multiplier is used to multiply the total score.

Example: If you slide 1 red into zone ONE and 2 red into zone TWO, your current score would be 5. However, if the multiplier lands in zone THREE, your final score would be 15.

Each player must score higher than the previous player.

If you use the same example and have scored 15 points in your turn, the next player must score at least 16 points. If that player scores only 5 points, he or she gets a strike. The next player would have to hit 5 points.

If you get 3 strikes, you’re out.

The last remaining player wins the game.

Three Strikes is a really fun way to practice your skills and involve a larger group of players.

Basic shuffleboard tips and techniques

As with any classic bar sport, it takes time and patience to learn shuffleboard and become a skilled player.

But a little practice and muscle memory will go a long way.

(Related: Learn About the History of the Tabletop Shuffleboard)

The Stroke

A shuffleboard shot should be soft and measured.

Notice how experienced players have a very slow and controlled movement until release. Her follow-through keeps the same steady pace.

Take a few slow and controlled practice shots to get to a basic level of comfort with your trigger. Notice how little effort it takes to levitate your puck to the other end of the table.

After mastering the speed of your release, try working on your accuracy.

For example, practice aiming at different points on the table. This can be different scribe sections, opposite corners, or triangle formations.

Remember that millimeters often count when it comes to game-winning shots. The ability to place your pucks in better goal positions with soft and accurate shots is key.

Also, it’s a good strategy to spread your pucks out when you’re facing an opponent. It makes it harder to hit many pucks with a single shot.

The handle

You should hold a puck with your thumb, index, and middle finger. This is a soft three-finger grip that leaves the other two fingers free to guide.

The thumb stays on the near edge of the puck while the index finger is on the top cap and the middle finger is on the far edge.

Try sliding the ring and pinky fingers in front of the surface while sliding the puck. This can help control both the speed and accuracy of your shots.

You’ll soon get a feel for the speed of the table and the right amount of effort required to cross the foul line and get your puck into goal position.

As you play more—even over the course of just a few games—you develop a consistent tempo with better accuracy.

Then the shuffleboard game is really fun.

An overview of the shuffleboard table, pucks and accessories

The tabletop shuffleboard game has some unique physical characteristics. Besides reviewing the rules of the game, it’s also helpful to learn more about the gear you’ll be using.

Here’s a quick rundown of basic shuffleboard gear. Starting at the table.

The shuffleboard table

A shuffleboard table has a long and narrow playing surface.

In fact, the length of a full size tournament table is 22 feet. That’s more than twice the length of a regular pool table.

The playing surface of an official table is 20′ 8″ long x 20″ wide. And the height of the table to the top of the shuffleboard playing surface is 30 inches.

If you’re at a bar with a full-size shuffleboard table, consider yourself lucky. It’s a real pleasure to play at this scale.

But to fit into the tighter spaces of bars and basements, leisure tables can range from 9 to 20 feet in length.

There are three general size categories for recreational shuffleboard tables:

9 – 12 foot tables for smaller spaces, bars and recreation rooms

14-16 foot tables for a full length feel while saving a few feet

18- to 22-foot tables for large rooms and tournament play

Recreational shuffleboard tables also vary in width. But it’s definitely more fun to play on a table that’s top surface is at least 18 inches wide. This allows for proper spacing between the pucks on the table.

Check out our shuffleboard table size guide to learn more.

If you’re looking for a smaller table that doesn’t come with a huge price tag, check out our guide to some of the best affordable shuffleboard tables out there.

table surface

Shuffleboard tables have hardwood playing surfaces. High-quality surfaces are usually made of maple and coated with epoxy to protect against dents and scratches.

Most surfaces are also concave. This means the centerline slopes inward to prevent pucks from wandering.

If you own a table, regularly clean, wax and silicone spray the surface to maintain it.

What is the powder for?

You may notice powder covering the playing surface of the shuffleboard.

Shuffleboard powder is also sometimes called salt or wax.

But the powder is actually silicone beads and cornmeal. The powders come in a variety of mixes depending on your table length and skill level.

The powder ensures a fast, smooth and straight glide.

You can apply a new layer for each game.

Also, a player can apply powder from the gutter if they notice dry patches before a shot.

Learn more in our guide to shuffleboard powder.

Your shuffleboard pucks (aka weights)

Regular sized shuffleboard pucks are 2.3125 inches wide. Smaller pucks measure closer to 2 inches wide and are better for narrow playing surfaces.

Pucks come in sets of eight: four red and four blue.

Official pucks weigh about 12 ounces, but recreational pucks can range from 11 to 15 ounces.

Most importantly, have fun!

If you’ve never played before, hopefully this guide will give you enough information to get started tabletop shuffleboard at your favorite dive bar.

You may have noticed that the game is popping up in more and more bars and breweries these days, so why not give it a try!

Shuffleboard Resources:

Official Table Shuffleboard Rules

A modern take on an old English game called shovelboard, outdoor shuffleboard is generally associated with seniors because it is widely played in senior centers and is relatively easy to play. Still, the game contains strategy and competitive elements that make it suitable for all ages. The National Shuffleboard Association sets the rules for the competitive version in the United States. There is indoor shuffleboard, but it’s played on a table. The outdoor game is played on a painted square.

What you need

A standard outdoor shuffleboard court is a rectangle 52 feet long and 10 feet wide. Each end has a baseline and a triangle divided into five sections, each marked with a specific number of dots. Below the triangle is an area labeled “10 Off.” “Dead lines” mark the 12-foot section in the middle. Each player needs a set of colored discs that are 6″ in diameter and between 9/16″ and 1″ thick. Yellow and black are the traditional colors, but other colors are acceptable. Also, each player needs a cue, a rod with two prongs at the end. The cue must not be longer than 6 feet, 3 inches.

game instructions

Shuffleboard is played in semi-rounds. Each half round, players take turns using the cue to push discs from the 10-off area at one end of the court toward the scoring triangle at the other end. Yellow plays first. Discs that don’t meet the distant deadline or slip past the 10 Off section will be removed from the game, as will those played illegally. The other discs remain in play. The goal is to score points with your own discs while throwing your opponent’s discs into the 10 off area or preventing them from scoring.

count

At the end of each semi-round the points are counted. Players receive the marked score for each disc that is entirely within a section of the scoring triangle. Discs that are on a line are not counted. Subtract 10 points for each disc that is within the 10 off area. The game continues until one player reaches 75 points. Once this is done, play continues until the end of the semi-round. If the other player also reaches or exceeds 75 points, the player with the highest number of points at the end of the semi-round wins.

Penalty Considerations

The National Shuffleboard Association maintains a long list of penalties for tournament play. In casual games, penalties are generally limited to offenses that directly affect the outcome of the semi-round. For example, Washington State’s Crestview Condos penalizes its players for playing an opponent’s disc, leaning over the baseline when shooting, and allowing a disc to touch the 10-off line before playing that disc. Discuss the penalties you will use with your opponent before play begins.

Shuffleboard is a game that is easy to play for everyone, regardless of age, size, or strength. That way it brings people together and now you’re going to figure out all the shuffleboard rules so you know the game inside and out. You’ll have a great time whether you’re playing for drinks, bets or points!

It began around 600 years ago in Europe. King Henry VIII is said to have loved playing and betting on the game. Some people say shuffleboard died in the 60’s. But just as things are spinning again, it’s now hotter than ever and is likely to be here to stay.

While there are many variations of the game, today we’re going to focus on the basic shuffleboard table rules of the most popular version. It has a lot in common with curling and air hockey. Paddles are used to “push” pucks (or “weights”) toward a target zone.

It’s a favorite among bar-goers and many others. But first you need to learn how to play table shuffleboard. Check out this guide to learn tabletop shuffleboard rules.

Floor vs. table shuffleboard

Although the basic difference is obvious, floor shuffleboard (aka “deck”) uses cues instead of paddles. These are used to slide the weighted pucks across a narrow space marked on the floor.

Table shuffleboard is played on a special game table rather than a seat on the floor. This table is smaller than a floor court. You slide your puck down the table and into the scoring area at the far end.

The shuffleboard table

The official table dimensions are 22 feet long, 20 inches wide, and approximately 30 inches high. Some people like to use unofficial sizes as short as 9 feet long, but they all need to be the same width. This table is waxed to reduce friction when sliding your puck across the table.

You’ll notice lines at 6 and 12 inches from the other end. 6 feet from this end you will see the foul line. Around the table is a gully called “Alley” which we’ll cover in a moment.

Tabletop Shuffleboard Rules

To score points, your puck must cross this line without falling off the shuffleboard table. Some shuffleboard games play from one end, others from both. If you play from both ends, you each have a foul line.

1. Gather your players. A total of 2 teams will compete. Singles are one-on-one and doubles are two-on-two. Bring adult drinks because you’re about to play one of the best drinking games (or play for points).

2. Each team gets 4 pucks. Usually these pucks are red for one team and blue for the other. They can be marked in different ways to differentiate the two teams, but the red and blue coloration is the most common.

3. Who starts? A coin toss is the easiest way to determine which team will go first. Have a team member name heads or tails and act accordingly.

4. Start the game. Take turns sliding your puck across the table until all are used. You try to get your puck to stand at the far end of the table without falling off. One of the most entertaining elements of the game is knocking your opponent’s puck off the table with your own.

5. Score your pucks. Shuffleboard scoring works because the team with the pucks furthest down the table can score. Note: Only the pucks that have passed your opponent’s farthest puck can score.

Score 4 points if your puck hangs over the end of the table (this is called a “hanger”).

Score 3 points if it crosses the far line without falling or hanging

Score 2 points if it crosses the nearer scoring line

Score 1 point if it crosses the foul line

Score the value in the lower scoring band when your puck crosses a line or lands between lines.

6. Grab your pucks and start over. The winning team starts the next round. In a game with only 2 players, whoever scores 11 or 15 wins the whole game. In team play, the first team to score 21 points wins.

If someone needs a handicap, be sure to let them get 1 extra point. Decide on that before you start the game, or it could turn into a shuffle scuffle, and nobody wants that.

Shuffleboard rules expanded

In the name of good sportsmanship, it’s a good shuffleboard rule to shake hands before the start of a game. In times of Covid-19, an elbow bump might be enough.

As I mentioned above, tossing a coin is the easiest way to tell which team goes first. But remember that if you finish second, you have an advantage. You get to be the first to go to the next round.

Penalties & Formalities

If your puck does not pass your foul line, it is removed from the table. This is referred to as the “illegal” zone. According to shuffleboard rules, if your puck falls into the lineout, you have to sit out the rest of the round.

Get 1 penalty point if you:

Touch the playing surface at any time

Hold a puck while the other team is playing

Make the table vibrate or move in some way

Try to hit the other team’s pucks to push them down the lane. Hopefully this will move your puck to a higher scoring area and remove the puck from play. If yours accidentally crosses the foul line and bounces off a puck, you may end up in the illegal zone, in which case both pucks are removed from play.

play doubles

During a doubles game, one player from each team stands at opposite ends of the shuffleboard table and takes turns shooting. It’s almost like playing 2 games at the same time and then combining the scores of each team.

Official shuffleboard table rules state that players are not allowed to go to the other end of the shuffleboard table to check puck positions. You have to rely on asking your partner.

What Makes Table Shuffleboard a Great Drinking Game?

It’s not just the points, but the penalties and slang that should earn it a spot on your list of fun drinking games. There are so many little punishments that are easy to do when you’re a little tipsy. Pointing out that the other team did this or that to have a point docked will lead to friendly shouts and laughter.

Tabletop shuffleboard was originally developed for rowdy pub crowds to discourage otherwise destructive late-night escapades. How would we hold the fabric of society together without the game of shuffleboard? Well, we wouldn’t, and the world would spiral out of control.

Friends gather to watch and get loud, have fun and stay out of trouble. It’s a compact, easy-to-play game that’s perfect for pubs. There are a few ways you can make this a drinking game, whether you’re at the bar or at home, so let’s go through a few scenarios:

tee

In this version of tabletop shuffleboard, you play double, that is, 2 on each team. If you don’t have enough people for doubles, take the opportunity to make new friends by getting people to play. You could make a new friend or make it a date!

Each player has to hold a beer throughout the game, which throws them a bit off balance. If they put down their beer, they have to drink something. “Joe just put down his beer! Drink up, mate!”

Set your own rules for when sips are taken, e.g. every penalty, point, knock-off, lap loss, etc. It depends on what kind of night you want to have (and how you want to feel in the morning).

Build your skills and celebrate a championship with more drinks! Remember to head home because a shuffleboard night can get a little crazy.

Shuffleboard is timeless

I’ve visited a few bars in the past, but one in particular stands out. As I walked in, my eyes fell on an elegant, inviting shuffleboard table, well-lit under the dangling light fixture, the surrounding floor being worn. It was a timeless spectacle that set this particular venue apart from the other hangouts in the neighborhood.

It’s the same for people all over the world. Not only the game aspect, but also the binding and aesthetics make the included “table shuffleboard” unique and cool. Now you know why this game is persistent.