Standard Backgammon Equipment

Many newcomers to backgammon tournaments are often interested in finding out about the standard backgammon equipment used there. While there is no international backgammon organization that monitors backgammon events, some player preferences have helped to introduce commonly upheld standards depending on the tournament.

If you're interested in entering backgammon tournaments, you should check the rules for the types of backgammon equipment specified. Some rules prohibit players from using backgammon boards that are too small or too large. Nearly all tournaments stipulate that precision dice are the only sets of dice to be used and that dice cups should be lipped. The director of the tournament is often tasked with banning any backgammon equipment that fails to meet tournament standards.

Usually backgammon boards that are 40mm in size with 44mm checkers are preferred by most players. These boards are easy to carry around, unlike the two-inch variety which is cumbersome despite the larger playing surface it offers. You should avoid purchasing a wooden board as these are banned under tournament conditions for the noise the dice make on the surface and the slow speed with which they roll on the wood. Instead, boards should be made from leather, felt, cork, denim or vinyl to comply with standard backgammon equipment regulations.