Are there Standards Set for Backgammon Equipment?

There are literally thousands of backgammon clubs around the world, each one preferring certain rules and regulations in accordance with the country and the players' tastes. Somehow, there exist no written international rules regarding backgammon equipment. Backgammon boards, dice and checkers come in all different shapes and sizes. So where can we find guidelines for backgammon equipment, anyway?

You will generally find backgammon clubs stipulating rules regarding the size of the backgammon equipment, such as the backgammon boards. Some may provide minimum and maximum dimensions. Other stipulations regarding backgammon equipment may relate to the use of precision dice and types of throwing cups, with a certain preference given over other options.

At a backgammon tournament, you will usually find certain standards required on backgammon equipment. For example, many tournaments won't allow players to bring a backgammon board made entirely from wood - imagine the noise of scores of players throwing dice on wooden boards concurrently? Instead, these tournaments require that players have boards made with felt or cork surfaces to absorb some of the noise. If in doubt about the standards required by a tournament or club, simply ask!