The Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth delivers tournament-grade performance in a sleek 8ft package. Our comprehensive review covers specs, setup, maintenance, and how it compares to luxury alternatives.
The Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth represents a compelling middle ground in the American pool table market, delivering tournament-specification performance without the premium price tag of luxury brands. At $3,195, this 8-foot table targets serious players who demand consistent ball roll and responsive cushions but don't require hand-carved details or exotic wood finishes. What sets this model apart is its focus on playability over aesthetics—every design choice prioritizes the game experience.
For buyers researching professional-grade pool tables for home use, the Eliminator II Stealth offers specifications typically found in tables costing twice as much. The stealth finish provides a modern aesthetic that complements contemporary game rooms while the robust construction ensures decades of reliable play.
Buffalo has built its reputation on manufacturing tables that perform consistently under heavy use, and the Eliminator II Stealth exemplifies this philosophy. The table features genuine slate playing surface—not MDF or particle board substitutes—ensuring true ball roll and consistent bounce characteristics that serious players demand.
The Stealth edition's matte black finish addresses a common complaint about traditional pool tables: excessive glare under bright lighting. This seemingly minor detail significantly impacts gameplay, particularly during long sessions or competitive matches. The finish also resists fingerprints and minor scratches better than glossy alternatives.
Construction quality centers around a solid hardwood frame with reinforced corner blocks and adjustable leg levelers. These features ensure the table maintains its level playing surface even as your home settles or environmental conditions change. The cushion system uses professional-grade rubber that provides consistent rebound characteristics across the entire rail system.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Cabinet | Hardwood frame, stealth matte black finish, reinforced corner construction |
| Display | Three-piece genuine slate playing surface, professional cloth |
| Sound | Leather drop pockets, solid hardwood construction minimizes noise |
| Dimensions | 100" L x 56" W x 32" H (8-foot regulation size) |
| Weight | Approximately 850 lbs (slate and frame combined) |
| Power | No electrical components required |
| Era | Contemporary design (2020s manufacturing) |
| Restoration level | New condition, factory warranty included |
The Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth targets intermediate to advanced players who understand the difference between recreational and serious pool equipment. If you've outgrown bar-style tables or coin-operated machines and want consistent, predictable gameplay, this table delivers professional specifications without luxury pricing.
Home enthusiasts with dedicated game rooms will appreciate the table's substantial presence and tournament-grade performance. The 8-foot size requires adequate space—plan for at least 17 feet by 13 feet of room to accommodate comfortable cueing from all angles. Players who host regular games or practice sessions will benefit from the table's durability and consistent playing characteristics.
This table also suits buyers who want authentic pool equipment but don't require hand-carved details or exotic wood species. The stealth finish appeals to modern interior design preferences while the robust construction ensures the investment will last for decades. Serious players who compete in leagues or tournaments will find the specifications match regulation requirements.
Conversely, casual players who prefer occasional games might find this table's professional specifications and substantial size excessive for their needs. The investment also assumes you have appropriate space and won't need to relocate the table frequently.
Professional installation is mandatory for the Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth due to its three-piece slate construction and precise leveling requirements. The delivery process typically involves a specialized freight company that schedules white-glove service including room placement and complete assembly.
Preparation involves ensuring adequate doorway clearance (36-inch minimum) and removing any obstacles along the delivery path. The installation team will position the frame, install slate sections, level the playing surface, and stretch the cloth. This process typically takes 3-4 hours and requires access to the room from multiple angles.
Room requirements extend beyond the table's footprint—allow 5 feet of clearance on all sides for comfortable play with standard 58-inch cues. Ceiling height should accommodate overhead lighting without interfering with elevated shots. Consider flooring protection during installation, as the process involves heavy lifting and precise positioning.
Daily maintenance involves brushing the cloth surface to remove chalk dust and debris that can affect ball roll. Use a pool table brush in straight strokes from head to foot, never in circular motions that can damage the fabric fibers. Cover the table when not in use to prevent dust accumulation and protect against accidental spills.
Weekly care includes wiping down the rails and pockets with a slightly damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. Check pocket integrity and tighten any loose hardware. The leather drop pockets should be inspected for wear and replaced if they show signs of tearing or excessive stretching.
Monthly maintenance involves checking the table's level using a precision level tool, particularly after seasonal temperature changes that can cause settling. The adjustable leg levelers allow for minor corrections without professional service. Clean the balls regularly with appropriate cleaners to maintain their surface finish and ensure consistent roll characteristics.
Cloth wear represents the most common long-term maintenance concern, typically manifesting as pilling or thinning in high-traffic areas around the breaking spot and side pockets. Professional cloth replacement costs $200-400 depending on material quality and local service rates. High-quality cloth should last 3-5 years under regular home use.
Cushion degradation occurs gradually over many years, causing dead spots or inconsistent rebound characteristics. Professional cushion replacement involves removing the rail system and installing new rubber, typically costing $400-600 for a complete set. Quality cushions should maintain their performance for 10-15 years under normal conditions.
Leveling issues can develop due to house settling or temperature fluctuations. Minor adjustments using the leg levelers can address most problems, but significant settling may require professional re-leveling to ensure proper slate alignment. Watch for balls consistently rolling toward specific areas, which indicates leveling problems.
Cloth upgrades represent the most impactful modification for serious players. Tournament-grade cloth like Simonis or Championship fabrics provide faster, more consistent play compared to standard materials. These premium cloths cost $150-300 but significantly enhance ball speed and accuracy.
Lighting improvements dramatically affect gameplay quality. Professional-grade LED fixtures designed specifically for pool tables eliminate shadows and provide even illumination across the entire playing surface. Quality lighting systems range from $300-800 but transform the playing experience.
Accessory upgrades include premium ball sets, professional cue racks, and precision leveling tools. High-quality Aramith balls provide superior durability and consistent weight distribution compared to standard sets. A complete premium ball set costs $100-150 but lasts significantly longer than economy alternatives.
Comparing the Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth to luxury options reveals interesting trade-offs between performance and aesthetics. The Billards Montfort Lewis luxury model offers hand-carved details and exotic wood finishes but costs significantly more while providing similar playing characteristics. For buyers prioritizing gameplay over showpiece appeal, the Buffalo delivers better value.
The Brunswick Allenton in 7-foot configuration provides a more compact alternative for space-constrained rooms. However, the smaller playing surface affects shot angles and doesn't meet tournament specifications. Serious players should prioritize the 8-foot size despite space constraints.
Budget-conscious buyers might consider the Billards Montfort Belval model, which offers solid construction at a lower price point. However, the Buffalo's stealth finish and refined details justify the price difference for buyers seeking a balance between performance and modern aesthetics.
Against imported alternatives, the Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth demonstrates superior build quality and customer support. Domestic manufacturing ensures parts availability and service support, while the company's reputation provides confidence in long-term reliability. The slight price premium over imports pays dividends in durability and service support.
The Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth succeeds in its mission to deliver tournament-grade performance at a reasonable price point. The combination of genuine slate construction, professional-grade cushions, and thoughtful design details creates a table that serious players will appreciate for decades.
At $3,195, this table occupies the sweet spot between recreational equipment and luxury showpieces. The stealth finish addresses practical concerns while the robust construction ensures consistent performance under regular use. For buyers who understand the difference between casual and serious pool equipment, the investment delivers exceptional value.
The table's substantial size and weight require careful planning and professional installation, but these characteristics contribute to its authentic playing experience. Buyers with adequate space and commitment to the game will find the Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth meets or exceeds expectations for performance and durability.
An 8-foot pool table requires a minimum room size of 17 feet by 13 feet for comfortable play with standard 58-inch cues. This allows 5 feet of clearance on all sides for proper cueing angles. For optimal play with longer cues or to accommodate multiple players, consider 18 feet by 14 feet. Ceiling height should be at least 8 feet to prevent interference with elevated shots and overhead lighting.
Professional installation of the Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth typically takes 3-4 hours with a two-person crew. The process includes positioning the frame, installing three slate pieces, precise leveling, and cloth installation. Installation scheduling usually occurs within 1-2 weeks of delivery, depending on local service availability. The installation team will also provide basic maintenance instructions and answer setup questions.
Slate provides superior flatness and consistency compared to MDF or particle board alternatives. The three-piece slate construction in the Buffalo Eliminator II allows for precise leveling and maintains its flat surface indefinitely. Non-slate surfaces can warp over time and don't provide the authentic ball roll characteristics that serious players expect. While slate tables cost more initially, they deliver professional-grade performance and maintain their value better over time.
Pool table cloth typically lasts 3-5 years under regular home use, depending on play frequency and maintenance quality. Signs that replacement is needed include visible wear patterns, pilling around pocket areas, or inconsistent ball roll. Professional cloth replacement costs $200-400 depending on material choice and local service rates. Higher-quality cloths like Simonis or Championship brands last longer and provide superior playing characteristics.
Moving a slate pool table requires complete disassembly by professionals due to the weight and precision required for proper setup. The slate pieces alone weigh approximately 450 pounds and must be handled with specialized equipment. DIY moving attempts risk personal injury and permanent table damage. If you anticipate moving within a few years, factor professional disassembly and reinstallation costs ($400-800) into your decision.
The Buffalo Eliminator II Stealth includes manufacturer warranty coverage against defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty terms typically cover structural components for several years while wear items like cloth and cushions have shorter coverage periods. Professional installation is usually required to maintain warranty validity. Keep all documentation and follow recommended maintenance procedures to ensure warranty protection remains in effect.
