What should I consider when choosing between an octagon poker table and a Texas Hold Em style table?
January 20, 2009, Posted by poker tips at 10:25 am
I want to buy a poker table or table top for my husband but know very little about the game. Which is better for playing poker at home with “the guys”? The classic poker table or the oblong Texas Hold Em style table- is it a matter of preference or does the shape of the table actually MEAN something?
I have run a poker club in Arkansas for more than 3 years, and I have found that the closer you can get to a round table the better.
With an octagon, everyone can see the cards well, dealing is easier, and raking chips (winning a hand) is easier.
An oval shaped table makes it tough for the players at the ends to see the cards, to deal the cards, and to rake a pot.
The only way an oval table would be a good use is if the guys had a full-time dealer who sat in the middle of the table and was in control of the game. This rarely happens with "the guys." Usually each person takes turns dealing.
On a side note, I would recommend buying your husband two decks of plastic cards. They last forever! If you spill a liquid on them, they can be wiped off and they will still work! You can even wash them in your dishwasher. They are called "Copag" or "Kem" Cards.