Discard tray – the tray for discarded/played cards. It is used by the dealer during the game to ensure that the table is kept in proper order. In games like blackjack and poker, these trays help prevent both accidental card mixing and deliberate cheating. Discard trays range from simple, 2 deck models to advanced, revolving trays that can hold up to a dozen separate decks. They are usually made out of glass, wood, plastic, metal, or Plexiglas (PMMA).
How to Choose a Discard Tray?
Discard trays are not a luxury reserved just for casinos. These days, they can be easily bought online or in hobby stores for use in home sessions. There are thousands of options to choose from. The cheapest discard trays start at just a couple of dollars, while the more expensive ones can cost up to $50.
The key to choosing the right discard tray is knowing your personal needs. How often do you play card games? How many people are usually at the table? How many decks do you use when playing?
If you only play blackjack a couple of times a year, the cheapest plastic discard tray you can find will probably do the trick just time. If your group meets up to play poker several times a week, you might want to choose a nicer, more durable model that will stand up to years of use and abuse.
Most people prefer the premium feel of glass trays, but glass discard trays may shatter if they fall on hard floors. If you play in a room with a concrete or hardwood floor, it is best to steer away from glass discard trays and stick to wood or plastic options.
Deck amount is another important factor. If you only use two decks, there is no reason for you to buy a 9 deck discard tray. If you use six decks, buying a single 6 deck model is a better choice than buying three 2 deck trays.
Discard tray:
- A tray used for the discarded/played cards.
- Can be made from a wide variety of materials.
