Bumper Pool

Bumper Pool is a game for children and novice players. In France, bumper pool is played more seriously than in many other countries. Because the tables are smaller than standard billiards tables, the game is valued in places with less space for tables.

Bumper pool requires the use of a special table which has either 12 or 14 "bumpers", or cushioned knobs protruding from the table's surface.

The Bumper Pool Table

The bumper pool table can be either octagon-shaped or rectangle-shaped. The table has a pocket on either side, allowing for games between two competitors or two teams of competitors.

On a 12-bumper table, each pocket is flanked by a bumper, so that two bumpers apiece will be found on either end of the table. The other 8 bumpers are found in a pattern in the center of the bumper table, acting as obstructions to direct shots from one end of the table to the other.

On a 14-bumper table, there are 3 instead of 2 bumpers on either side of the center pattern of bumpers.

The Billiard Balls

In bumper pool, there are 5 white balls and 5 red balls. One of the white balls has a red spot on it, while one of the red balls has a white spot on it.

The two different colors represent the two sides in the game. Therefore, there is a red pool and a white team in bumper pool.

The spotted ball is not the cue ball for each side. It is simply another object ball, though by specific rule this must be the first object ball pocketed in this form of billiards.

Turns in Bumper Pool

A player's turn continues until he or she fails to pocket one of their balls. A shooter does not have to strike one ball into another in bumper pool, but instead may shoot the ball directly towards the pocket. Of course, because of the placement of the bumpers, players are often required to bank shots around the table.

Bumper Pool Fouls

It is not a foul to pot the opponent's ball in bumper pool. Instead, that ball remains pocketed, which is penalty enough.

If a shooter sinks one of his own balls in the wrong pocket, this is considered a foul. The opponent is allowed to drop two balls into the pocket as a penalty.

If a shooter sinks the last ball into the wrong pocket, this is considered an automatic loss.

Knocking a ball off the table is considered a foul. The opponent is allowed to place the ball anywhere on the table. This is usually placed inside the center of the bumpers, where it is difficult to navigate the ball through the bumpers.

Winning Bumper Pool

The first player to pocket all five balls legally wins at bumper pool.