Whether you're a casino game enthusiast, collector, or just a host looking to spice up your gaming nights, purchasing your very first roulette wheel can be quite the addition to the feeling of an authentic casino. Bearing in mind the great number of choices existing out there, it's wise to understand the different styles and kinds of roulette wheels so that a smart choice can be made. Here's a detailed guide to help you find out what suits your needs the best.
Basics of the Roulette Wheel
These wheels are amazing devices designed to give a random and fair outcome with every spin. There are mainly three different styles of roulette: French, European, and American. The differences are within the number of pockets and house edge.
French and European Wheels
These have 37 pockets, numbered 0 through 36. The house edge on European roulette is 2.7 percent, while the French version can get as low as 1.35 percent with special rules like “La Partage” and “En Prison.”
American Wheel
This wheel has 38 pockets, having a single zero (0) and a double zero (00), hence increasing the house edge to 5.26 percent.
History of a Roulette Wheel
Ever wondered where it really originated from? The story begins in 17th-century France with a mathematician by the name of Blaise Pascal. The version we know today was launched in the mid-19th century by Francois and Louis Blanc. They invented the single zero wheel in Germany in 1842. This version spread to all of Europe and later entered the United States, where the double zero wheel became the standard one.
New vs. Used Roulette Wheels
So, are you going to get a new or used roulette wheel? Well, that depends on your needs and, of course, how much you can afford to pay for it.
New Wheels
They come with the best quality, last longer, and meet stringent casino standards for a wheel to guarantee smooth and consistent spins. But they can be rather pricey, sometimes between several hundred and several thousand dollars.
Used Wheels
The used ones are cheaper but not without risks. They can have worn-out parts, especially the ball track. If you are going for a secondhand one, check it for cracks or uneven surfaces.
Anatomy of a Roulette Wheel
Knowing the parts of a roulette wheel will help you make a better choice:
The Roulette Ball
Typically made of man-made material, like teflon or plastic. The diameter of the ball will vary depending on how large the wheel is.
The Bowl
This is the solid base, typically of wood composition, of which everything else sits atop. Any imbalance here may produce prejudiced results.
The Spindle
This is a stationary component that attaches the moving wheel to the base and is typically metal with ball bearings.
The Wheelhead
The entire rotating package that comprises the cone and the numbered pockets.
The Ball Track
Where the ball spins before finally dropping into a pocket. A smooth track ensures fair play.
The Deflectors
These diamond-shaped pieces disrupt the flow of the ball to keep things random.
The Pockets
Numbered slots where the ball comes to rest. European wheels have 37; American has 38.
The Frets
Dividers between pockets, which come into play when the ball bounces.
Turret
The center of the wheelhead, typically ornamental.
Things to Look for in a Purchased Wheel
When buying a roulette wheel, here are some things to look for in the wheel:
- Material and Construction: Solid construction materials include wood and metal.
- Diamonds (Deflectors): The more rounded the diamonds, the larger they can be. The smaller the better if they are irregularly shaped for randomizing.
- Pocket Separators: “V” shaped separators contribute to randomization.
- Ball Track Condition: The smoothness of the track will let the ball spin unbiasedly.
Where to Purchase
You can purchase roulette wheels from:
- Specialized Casino Supply Stores: Top of the line, but very pricey.
- Online Marketplaces: eBay will have new and used wheels. Be sure to review the seller.
- Direct from Manufacturers: This guarantees quality and authenticity; quantities may be limited though.
Practical Tips for First-Time Buyers
If you just want to play roulette at home for enjoyment, here are some tips which may help:
- Define Your Purpose: Casual, serious practice, or simply for collection?
- Set a Budget: Professional wheels can be quite expensive, so if you have a tight budget, consider purchasing a used good-quality one.
- Check Legality: Check if it is legal to have a roulette wheel in your area.
- Inspect Before Buying: If possible, inspect the wheel for damages before purchase.
- Consider Size: Choose the size of the wheel that best fits your intended space.
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance plays an important role in keeping your roulette wheel in its best condition. Here are some tips:
- Keep It Dry: Away from water to avoid warping.
- Cleanliness: It will collect dust and dirt on its surface; wipe it clean with a soft cloth.
- Lubricate: Silicone lubricant is applied around the spindle for smooth rotation.
- No Damaged Parts: Check for any loose frets or bent metal.
- Balance Wheel: Balance fret and level wheel periodically.
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