What mechanism is used to fasten the rails to the slate is critical on your new table. The tighter the rails are fastened to the slate, the better the table will play. Solid wood rail liner for the most accurate rebound available. T-Nuts are permanently embedded in t o rails giving perfect alignment, and cannot come loose from overtightening. Dome washers on rail bolts which lay directly against the slate provide the ultimate in tightening ability.
Many companies uses washers which lay against the wood slate framing which can be compressed.
Tack strip on underside of rail allows an area for stapling the cloth to the rails so that they do not impede the height of the rubber. This is the wood section of the rail which is visible and affects the looks of your pool table. It should be made of a hardwood due to the scratching which can occur from cues being scraped across the rail. It is also the part of the rail which can add to the beauty of your table. Solid wood rails provide the furniture appeal that you desire in your table.