Can't say my table is that tight, the corners are only 4.5
When I was younger I had them tighter by a quarter of an inch. Old age, and not wanting the table to play goofy anymore made me loosen it up.
This is an excellent size for one pocket, and perhaps practice, as you have to bring yourself to every shot. Realize there is good and bad to having a table that tight for even practice. It is very tough to get into your rhythm, and there are shots that you have to play which those pockets just won't accept.
For rotation or straight pool, if I want to see players have balls hang up in the pockets, I would go out to my nearest bar and watch that.
When I watch professionals I want to see them put packages together, and the other player do the same, or wilt under the heat.
My sentiments exactly here.
I had my 9 foot GC rails modified to 4 1/4" corners 4 3/4" sides and after a year and a half of serious practice/drills I've determined that 4.5" is perfect for Pool.
You mentioned your tightened table was to play goofy and I absolutely agree. With the cloth full broken in, there are many shots that will be rejected even if hit pure-just because of the speed required for position on the next shot.
On the plus side, you are forced to seriously hone in on each shot, so self discipline is enhanced.
But to have fun, get some runs going, and have the opportunity to cheat pockets to get better position, I find myself going to the local pool hall or a friends house to do just that.
IMO a fun table is the original gold crown 4.75 corners 5.25" sides.
A work/tournament table is 4.5 corners 5" sides.
And anything smaller is limiting the experience of the game in all aspects, from a player standpoint, and a spectator.
*** on a side note- when big Ko played Dennis O down at Steinway on that 4 " or 4 1/8" corners table, as a spectator who was watching the stream, I felt bored at times because of the reserve both players had. The table just didn't allow the artistry to come out in both their games. This was a direct result of the pocket sizes. So tighter is not always better plaguing and watching IMO*****