Buying a backgammon board

Helerike · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 10

I am in the process of looking for a backgammon board to buy. However, I am a little confused about which one to get, as there are some terms involved that I haven’t heard of. The main thing that I don’t understand is what is an “Attache” board and how is it different than a regular board? I’ve noticed that some boards are labeled as “Attache” and some are not. Maybe they are the same thing but I really don’t know. Also, anything else I should consider when buying a board?

Jade · Joined: 14 Jun 2007 Posts: 27

Attaché is short for attaché case. An attaché case is like a briefcase. What this mean, in reference to backgammon boards is that the board folds up in half for storage. Some boards are flat, which can be nice for your home but a bit difficult to take with you to a tournament or game night. Attaché cases are hinged like a briefcase and you can even carry the checkers and dice inside. If you want a board that you will use just in your home and will be out all the time then a flat board is fine, but attaché cases are certainly more convenient.

Aside from attaché or non-attaché there are a couple of things to look out for when you are buying a board. First thing is the size of the board—most sites will list the size of the board when it is opened, but sometimes you will see size listed a the size of the folded attaché case. Pay attention so you won’t be mislead.

You should also consider the materials for the board. Many boards are made of wood, which is fine but it can be noisy so wood boards are usually not favored for tournament play. Some boards have quiet surfaces like cork or felt, which you may prefer. Also pay attention to the slideability of the board’s surface. It can be frustrating to have your checkers get jammed as you try to slide them around the board.

You didn’t say how much you wanted to spend on your board, but when you purchase backgammon boards you get what you pay for. More expensive boards are better quality and will stay with you for years to come. I bought my board in ’79 and it’s still as good as new.