A perfectly level crokinole board is essential for fair and consistent play. An uneven playing surface can cause unpredictable disc movement, making shots rely more on luck than skill. If you’ve ever noticed your shots veering in an unexpected direction or behaving inconsistently, it’s time to check if your board needs leveling. Thankfully, with a few simple tools and techniques, you can correct any imbalance and ensure an optimal playing experience.
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How to Level an Uneven Crokinole Board |
Step 1: Check the Level
Before making any adjustments, assess whether your board is uneven. To do this, use a round bubble level and place it directly over the 20-hole in the center of the board. Observe where the bubble settles—if it isn’t centered, the board is tilted in one or more directions.
For a more thorough check, rotate the level 90 degrees and repeat the test. This will confirm whether the tilt is consistent across multiple angles or if there are multiple problem areas.
Step 2: Identify the Uneven Areas
To pinpoint exactly where the imbalance is most pronounced, move the level around the board:
- Place it near each edge of the playing surface.
- Check the quadrants (top-left, top-right, bottom-left, bottom-right).
- Test diagonal angles to ensure full coverage.
This step will help you determine which sections need height adjustments and whether the imbalance is significant or minor.
Step 3: Adjust with Shims
Once you’ve identified the areas needing correction, you can make small adjustments by placing shims under the table legs or directly beneath the board, depending on how it’s supported.
There are several materials you can use:
- Wooden Shims – Thin pieces of wood provide a sturdy and adjustable solution, especially useful for tables with a solid base.
- Cardboard or Paper – Folded layers of thick paper or cardboard are excellent for fine-tuning small adjustments.
- Playing Cards – Surprisingly effective, stacked playing cards can provide precise height control. Some players even keep a deck handy just for this purpose!
To apply a shim:
- Lift the board or table slightly.
- Insert the shim under the appropriate leg or board edge.
- Lower the board back down and check the level again.
Step 4: Recheck the Level
After inserting the shims, return the bubble level to the center of the board and verify the alignment. If the bubble still isn’t perfectly centered, make additional small adjustments by adding or removing shims as needed.
Patience is key—tiny modifications can make a significant difference. Keep testing until the board sits perfectly level.
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Step 5: Fine-Tune as Needed
If your crokinole board sits on a carpeted or uneven floor, minor shifts may occur over time. Regularly checking the level ensures continued fair play. If you notice consistent tilting in the same direction, consider using a more permanent solution like rubber feet.
Bonus Tip: Rubber Feet for Long-Term Stability
For a more permanent fix, attaching rubber feet to the underside of your crokinole board can help:
- Provide better grip on smooth surfaces.
- Allow for minor leveling adjustments.
- Protect the table’s surface from scratches and pressure marks.
If your board doesn’t already have rubber feet, installing them is a simple process. Here’s an excellent tutorial by BrownCastle Games on how to do it effectively:
How to Install Rubber Feet on Your Crokinole Board
Conclusion
Leveling your crokinole board requires minimal effort but significantly improves gameplay quality. With just a few simple tools like a bubble level and some shims, you can eliminate unwanted tilts and ensure that every shot is determined by skill rather than chance. Periodic checks and minor adjustments will keep your board in peak condition, ensuring a smooth and competitive playing experience. Try these techniques and enjoy a perfectly balanced game every time!
Join the Discussion: Have you played crokinole before? Share your experience in the comments below!
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