Thanks, Marc! I admit that I find myself playing on this board a lot. I have it on my dining room table, pretty much ready to go whenever I feel like rolling out a game. And I take it out to play with friends, too. Cheers! ✨🎲🎲✨✌🏼
@@marcgenevey I am very lucky to have a close friend, Sam Ahmed, that I play with regularly. He’s been in (and won) many tournaments over the years. Over the board play, in my opinion, is super productive to improving overall match play! 🙌🏼✨🎲🎲
Hi Justin! Congratulations on your new board! 🎉 congratulations on getting a board dedicated to you because of your support for them. It’s was nice that they did that. Here are my thoughts: Pros: pretty green stain- has a rustic look which is very pretty. Nice checkers. I like the smaller size compared to your other larger board. I like that there is no handle. I like the leather case. I like the color scheme of the board. Cons: I just want to say that I had no problems with FM gammon boards before. However, the more I see their boards, the more I dislike it. Although I liked the color scheme, the insert makes the board look cheap. I don’t think the inserts have a high quality look. It just looks very inexpensive and I bet you it is very inexpensive to make. It’s a magnet with a print on it that is computer generated. Every real estate agent, car wash, school club, etc., make magnets with their advertisement on it because it’s cheap to mass produce. And that is what FM gammon is doing. There is no craftsmanship. I just feel that it is lazy to just print and insert the magnet on the board. It doesn’t warrant the high price they charge. I think it is completely fine to do that, but let’s not pretend that it’s high quality and worth the price. The cost of making the board and what they charge for it is too far apart. The other companies make great LEATHER boards that have craftsmanship and for a better price. FM gammon boards feels as though they want to do the least amount of work for a premium price. I feel like it’s lazy and cheap and doesn’t deserve the hype that they are getting. No one is mentioning the cons of FM gammon and they should. To further prove that my opinion is correct, they couldn’t even get your name right on the board. They could have at least googled your name to double check the spelling. But they didn’t! It’s nice that they dedicated a board to you but let’s just be real: they did it to profit from your name and your RUclips viewership. They are lazy, boards are cheap, no craftsmanship, and have no quality control for the products that leave their shop. What are you getting for $1-2k? A wooden board (not leather), acrylic checkers, with computer generated magnet insert, no hand work or craftsmanship. So a wooden plain board with nice checkers? How does that warrant $2k?? It doesn’t. It is over priced for the board. I just call it like I see it. I somewhat like this board for the pros that I mentioned, but the backgammon galaxy boards are made from FM gammon too and they are by far the ugliest and cheapest looking boards on the market for “high quality” boards. That’s because that’s how they were produced. The backgammon galaxy checkers are nice but it isn’t worth paying over $1k for just nice checkers. I think the other board manufacturers have high quality craftsmanship leather boards with cool colors, nice quality checkers with better or equivalent. Bottom line: FM gammon boards are not worth the high price for what you get.
Lilit, One cool thing about the backgammon community is that we can disagree on things, and yet remain civil, capable of playing a match over the board with no agenda, and no animus. I love that. I certainly respect your right to have an opinion about this board, but I disagree overall with your statement that FMGammon boards are 'cheap' and not worth the price. I think wooden boards are preferable, and I don't find the interchangeable surfaces cheap, as you do. Rather, I find them very functional, and I like that there are a variety of different colors to choose from. Now that we know you don't prefer FMGammon boards, Lilit, may I ask what board you play on most of the time, and what you like about it? Cheers! 👋
Yes, it does! However, it is slightly more compact than the full-size boards like the Talat and Onur boards. Make sure you get the correct size if you take the leap with an FM board, they’re worth it!
Jeffrey: I bet if you asked FM to include the black and gold checkers included in my video, they will send them. In fact, let me know if you decide to go in that direction, and I’ll confirm with my friend in Istanbul, Onur, who also has a board in his name (Onur board, very nice also). Cheers! 🤘🏼🎲🎲✨
@@jjmckenna thanks. I am definitely considering it. What do you think of the Earth board vs your signature model? They both look so nice and from your other videos, it seems like the Earth board might be one of your most used?
@@HappyHounds - Interesting comparison, the Earth board and the 'Justin McKenna' model. The Earth board is definitely more compact than my model; it also has the interior compartment (or alternative satchel), which makes it pretty unique. It is a pleasure to play on, which is why it's been used in a lot of tournaments sponsored by Backgammon Galaxy. It is currently priced at $1,100 on the Backgammon Galaxy Shop. My model is more compact than the other 'tournament-size' boards like the Talat, Hera, VOID board. It's only about two inches shorter, though, and I actually like the slightly more compact playing area very much. The leather exterior is also super nice, as is the leather bag, and the leather scoreboard. My board is currently listed for $1,200 on the FM Gammon website, and includes the leather carry bag (very nice), precision dice, and a leather scoreboard. Both the Earth board and my board feature the interchangeable surfaces, so one can mix things up with different tones, and different checkers, though they must be purchased separately. I played on my board for about three hours last night, with my doubles partner, Sam Ahmed. We played three 7-point matches, and he prevailed 2-1 in those, followed by a couple DMP games. My signature board is a pleasure to play on, and I would say that whether my name was inscribed on it, or NOT, lol. Good luck with your board purchase! Cheers!
Thank you for nice video. I have a question. Did you pay custom tax for this item? I heard this is from Turkey, just wonder how much is the tax for the item from Turkey to US..
Interesting question, but no, I did NOT have to pay any customs tax on this beautiful board from Turkey. The price paid to FM Gammon includes shipping, which is via FedEx and arrived very quickly. Not sure about countries other than the USA, though. Hope this helps! 🤘🏼🎲🎲✨
Hi, Justin! now this board has a story, it is one and only with the letter "e". The surface and checkers are beautiful. I'm thinking of upgrading my Earth Board myself.
I really like Nebula Edition. The Monte carlo surface and checkers are beautiful. Justin's board looks great, these bright yellow checkers are super. I'm confused ;)
@justin - thanks for all the info. I am in the process of purchasing from FM gammon. You have spent time talking about the boards and surfaces. I am wondering if you plan on posting something quick about different FM checkers. They seem to have about 5 different checker lines. For example, their Premium and VIP lines look really interesting…but are they? 😄
Net, Thanks for your comment and interesting question. I am aware that FMGammon has several different product lines (and price points) when it comes to their checkers. Unfortunately, I’m not even sure what kind of checkers I have with my various FM boards. I will say that I have had no issues or qualms about any of their checkers. The ones that came with my Talat board are a very rich color with beautiful marbling. The same can be said of the matte, flat checkers that accompanied my VOID board. I think all the FM checkers are very nice, but I can’t say that I can differentiate between them. I believe they can vary in thickness a bit, but I believe all my checkers are basically the same width. What I can say with confidence is that you will definitely enjoy any FM board if you purchase one. Hope this helps! Good luck and cheers! 🙌🏼🎲🎲✨❗️
@@jjmckenna thanks. I think the OLK series are too much for me. I like premium and VIP, but wonder if they are ultra shiny. Matte to Satin to minimal gloss works, but to me, too much gloss and reflections can detract. I am super excited to order the Talat!
I just found that FM Gammon has really good posts on each of their checker lines on their Facebook page. I decided on the premium line as the best fit for what I am trying to achieve. I also like their VIP and FNG lines. For my personal taste, I am not as much of a fan for their DMR (Marble) and Pearl lines.
@@netlawman2001 Net, I’m glad you were able to find the information you were looking for so that you have exactly what you want with your new board. I’m curious to know what kind of layout you’re going to get! Cheers! 🙌🏼✨🎲🎲
@@jjmckenna started with Talat, but decided too honey for me. Went with Onur with 15, 16, and 38 surfaces plus black, white and brown checkers (JAN series)
Wow, that is a really nice looking board. Love the colors. Funny that they got your name wrong! Didn't they check with you, lol? How many FM boards do you now currently own and play on? 🤣
Hi, Fly! I currently have FIVE FMGammon boards, and that is after I gave one away, and sold another. Two of the boards are branded by Backgammon Galaxy, but were made by FM: my Earth and Void boards.
Great looking board!! I'm fairly new to playing backgammon and looking at a Crisloid Legacy or Backcountry models and FM Golden Sahara board, would you have a preference on either of those boards? I'm trying to keep it in the $350. to 500. range. I did find a Wycliffe Brothers model on ebay earlier in the year and bought it. Once again, I love your new board and appreciate any board wisdom, lol.
Brazcaster - Thanks for your comment and question. If you know my videos, you know my very first board is a Crisloid with Legacy points. I think they are wonderful boards, but the cork surface isn’t to everyone’s taste. I can’t say I know the Backcountry brand, so I don’t know about that, but the lower priced FMGammon boards are very nice. I played on several earlier this year in Istanbul when I played in the Istavder Tavla (Istanbul Backgammon Club) Anniversary Tournament. Very nice, quiet playing surface, but with the wood-lined frame that I’ve grown to love with my FM boards. That’s my vote, to be honest. Whatever you choose, I hope you enjoy the board very much! Cheers! ✨🎲🎲🙌🏼✨
@@jjmckenna Thanks for the reply. The backcountry is actually a Crisloid board. It has the backcountry points and a cool looking board. I was leaning toward the FMGammon board and maybe in the near future buy a Crisloid. 😃Thanks again!
@@brazcaster - I know the Crisloid board you’re talking about, with the Sasquatch walking on the board! I think you’d be very happy with any of the FM boards, they’re pretty much my favorite, as you can tell from my various videos. Cheers! 🙌🏼💭✨🎲🎲
Hi, Pavel! Thanks for the support. I have had a couple people mention Hector Saxe, and I’ve looked at their website, but never considered buying one, yet. I’m trying to get some interest from the folks that make the P-40 board, but they haven’t gotten back to me. 🫤
Hey Justin, great looking board. I got the exact color surface with my full size Walnut board. You had me rolling when you flashed your evil twin 🤣. How do you like playing on the shorter field? Does it make seeing and reaching for the checkers easier like Marc Olsen says?
Jim, Glad you caught the reference to my 'evil twin,' lol. I played on this board for about four hours last night with my playing partner, Sam, and I loved the layout. Very easy to see the board, so I do like this slightly more compact size. Thanks for your comment, cheers! ✌
I know, right?! The guy responsible doesn’t speak great English, and didn’t check the spelling of my name, oddly. I believe they have corrected the problem and that the boards offered on their website are now *correctly* spelled, lol. Cheers! 👏🏼🎲🎲🔆
Green is my favorite color. However I am not a fan of staining wood with a green color. I think that a brown or red stain would look better in my opinion. I like the green field and the points but the frame color just doesn't do it for me.
I would have sent it back to them to get it fixed, so I wouldn't have to explain to whomever I play; who is this "Justine" at every tournament. 😔 Not good for a business that their strong suit is supposed to be attention to detail !
@@jjmckenna Obviously you would feel uncomfortable in your situation. I meant if I as a regular customer paid for it, I would return 100%. FM is the one who should ask you to fix their error in your case. I mean if you had some obscure difficult foreign name I would understand, or if they hadn't made it a female name I could bite the bullet maybe. But "Justin" is pretty easy at any country. No excuses are acceptable in this case in my humble opinion. I hope it works out anyways :) cheers 🍻
This is pure art. The texture, the sound, the colors... Everything makes me itch for a game ! 🤩
Thanks, Marc! I admit that I find myself playing on this board a lot. I have it on my dining room table, pretty much ready to go whenever I feel like rolling out a game. And I take it out to play with friends, too. Cheers! ✨🎲🎲✨✌🏼
@@jjmckenna you must have plenty of (lucky) friends!
@@marcgenevey I am very lucky to have a close friend, Sam Ahmed, that I play with regularly. He’s been in (and won) many tournaments over the years.
Over the board play, in my opinion, is super productive to improving overall match play! 🙌🏼✨🎲🎲
Hi Justin! Congratulations on your new board! 🎉 congratulations on getting a board dedicated to you because of your support for them. It’s was nice that they did that. Here are my thoughts:
Pros: pretty green stain- has a rustic look which is very pretty. Nice checkers. I like the smaller size compared to your other larger board. I like that there is no handle. I like the leather case. I like the color scheme of the board.
Cons: I just want to say that I had no problems with FM gammon boards before. However, the more I see their boards, the more I dislike it. Although I liked the color scheme, the insert makes the board look cheap. I don’t think the inserts have a high quality look. It just looks very inexpensive and I bet you it is very inexpensive to make. It’s a magnet with a print on it that is computer generated. Every real estate agent, car wash, school club, etc., make magnets with their advertisement on it because it’s cheap to mass produce. And that is what FM gammon is doing. There is no craftsmanship. I just feel that it is lazy to just print and insert the magnet on the board. It doesn’t warrant the high price they charge. I think it is completely fine to do that, but let’s not pretend that it’s high quality and worth the price. The cost of making the board and what they charge for it is too far apart. The other companies make great LEATHER boards that have craftsmanship and for a better price. FM gammon boards feels as though they want to do the least amount of work for a premium price. I feel like it’s lazy and cheap and doesn’t deserve the hype that they are getting. No one is mentioning the cons of FM gammon and they should. To further prove that my opinion is correct, they couldn’t even get your name right on the board. They could have at least googled your name to double check the spelling. But they didn’t! It’s nice that they dedicated a board to you but let’s just be real: they did it to profit from your name and your RUclips viewership. They are lazy, boards are cheap, no craftsmanship, and have no quality control for the products that leave their shop. What are you getting for $1-2k? A wooden board (not leather), acrylic checkers, with computer generated magnet insert, no hand work or craftsmanship. So a wooden plain board with nice checkers? How does that warrant $2k?? It doesn’t. It is over priced for the board. I just call it like I see it.
I somewhat like this board for the pros that I mentioned, but the backgammon galaxy boards are made from FM gammon too and they are by far the ugliest and cheapest looking boards on the market for “high quality” boards. That’s because that’s how they were produced. The backgammon galaxy checkers are nice but it isn’t worth paying over $1k for just nice checkers.
I think the other board manufacturers have high quality craftsmanship leather boards with cool colors, nice quality checkers with better or equivalent.
Bottom line: FM gammon boards are not worth the high price for what you get.
Lilit, One cool thing about the backgammon community is that we can disagree on things, and yet remain civil, capable of playing a match over the board with no agenda, and no animus. I love that.
I certainly respect your right to have an opinion about this board, but I disagree overall with your statement that FMGammon boards are 'cheap' and not worth the price.
I think wooden boards are preferable, and I don't find the interchangeable surfaces cheap, as you do. Rather, I find them very functional, and I like that there are a variety of different colors to choose from.
Now that we know you don't prefer FMGammon boards, Lilit, may I ask what board you play on most of the time, and what you like about it?
Cheers! 👋
Very, very nice board.
Thanks for sharing.
Edward, Thank you very much for the positive feedback! 🎲🎲🙌🏼🌟
Fmgammon boards are wowwwww
Matrix - Yessssssssss! ✨🎲🎲✨
Miss your uploads Justin! Great board!
Thank you for the support, Sammy! 🙌🏼🎲🎲💫
Gorgeous board! love the stained wood
Thanks, Martin! I really like how it turned out, and hope others will be able to enjoy this board!
I really dig that color combination. Nice review Justine!
Cheers, your Highness! 👑🐸
@@jjmckenna 😂🍻
Hey, looking great. Miss you in Monte Carlo.
Good luck, buddy, and I look forward to seeing you in Denver.
@@jjmckenna looking forward to it. That’s always a great event!
Hello Justin
Does this board have replaceable surfaces? (Mag fit)
Yes, it does! However, it is slightly more compact than the full-size boards like the Talat and Onur boards. Make sure you get the correct size if you take the leap with an FM board, they’re worth it!
Looking to save for one..don't see the gold and black checkers though
Jeffrey: I bet if you asked FM to include the black and gold checkers included in my video, they will send them. In fact, let me know if you decide to go in that direction, and I’ll confirm with my friend in Istanbul, Onur, who also has a board in his name (Onur board, very nice also).
Cheers! 🤘🏼🎲🎲✨
@@jjmckenna thanks. I am definitely considering it. What do you think of the Earth board vs your signature model? They both look so nice and from your other videos, it seems like the Earth board might be one of your most used?
@@HappyHounds - Interesting comparison, the Earth board and the 'Justin McKenna' model. The Earth board is definitely more compact than my model; it also has the interior compartment (or alternative satchel), which makes it pretty unique. It is a pleasure to play on, which is why it's been used in a lot of tournaments sponsored by Backgammon Galaxy. It is currently priced at $1,100 on the Backgammon Galaxy Shop.
My model is more compact than the other 'tournament-size' boards like the Talat, Hera, VOID board. It's only about two inches shorter, though, and I actually like the slightly more compact playing area very much. The leather exterior is also super nice, as is the leather bag, and the leather scoreboard. My board is currently listed for $1,200 on the FM Gammon website, and includes the leather carry bag (very nice), precision dice, and a leather scoreboard. Both the Earth board and my board feature the interchangeable surfaces, so one can mix things up with different tones, and different checkers, though they must be purchased separately.
I played on my board for about three hours last night, with my doubles partner, Sam Ahmed. We played three 7-point matches, and he prevailed 2-1 in those, followed by a couple DMP games. My signature board is a pleasure to play on, and I would say that whether my name was inscribed on it, or NOT, lol.
Good luck with your board purchase! Cheers!
@@jjmckenna thank you for your thought out response. Does not seem like I can go wrong with whatever I choose
Cool looking board. I'm playing in the Denver tournament in September too.
I look forward to meeting you in Denver! You’re a fan of these FM boards, am I correct?
@@jjmckenna FM boards are great. I enjoy playing on my Mete board.
@@osumarko - Nice! That’s one of my favorite boards!
Thank you for nice video. I have a question. Did you pay custom tax for this item? I heard this is from Turkey, just wonder how much is the tax for the item from Turkey to US..
Interesting question, but no, I did NOT have to pay any customs tax on this beautiful board from Turkey.
The price paid to FM Gammon includes shipping, which is via FedEx and arrived very quickly.
Not sure about countries other than the USA, though. Hope this helps! 🤘🏼🎲🎲✨
Hi, Justin! now this board has a story, it is one and only with the letter "e". The surface and checkers are beautiful. I'm thinking of upgrading my Earth Board myself.
Parafagi - Right! I choose to view my board as completely unique because of that extra ‘e,’ lol.
How would you upgrade your Earth board?
I really like Nebula Edition. The Monte carlo surface and checkers are beautiful. Justin's board looks great, these bright yellow checkers are super. I'm confused ;)
@justin - thanks for all the info. I am in the process of purchasing from FM gammon. You have spent time talking about the boards and surfaces. I am wondering if you plan on posting something quick about different FM checkers. They seem to have about 5 different checker lines. For example, their Premium and VIP lines look really interesting…but are they? 😄
Net, Thanks for your comment and interesting question.
I am aware that FMGammon has several different product lines (and price points) when it comes to their checkers. Unfortunately, I’m not even sure what kind of checkers I have with my various FM boards.
I will say that I have had no issues or qualms about any of their checkers. The ones that came with my Talat board are a very rich color with beautiful marbling. The same can be said of the matte, flat checkers that accompanied my VOID board. I think all the FM checkers are very nice, but I can’t say that I can differentiate between them.
I believe they can vary in thickness a bit, but I believe all my checkers are basically the same width.
What I can say with confidence is that you will definitely enjoy any FM board if you purchase one. Hope this helps! Good luck and cheers! 🙌🏼🎲🎲✨❗️
@@jjmckenna thanks. I think the OLK series are too much for me. I like premium and VIP, but wonder if they are ultra shiny. Matte to Satin to minimal gloss works, but to me, too much gloss and reflections can detract. I am super excited to order the Talat!
I just found that FM Gammon has really good posts on each of their checker lines on their Facebook page. I decided on the premium line as the best fit for what I am trying to achieve. I also like their VIP and FNG lines. For my personal taste, I am not as much of a fan for their DMR (Marble) and Pearl lines.
@@netlawman2001 Net, I’m glad you were able to find the information you were looking for so that you have exactly what you want with your new board.
I’m curious to know what kind of layout you’re going to get! Cheers! 🙌🏼✨🎲🎲
@@jjmckenna started with Talat, but decided too honey for me. Went with Onur with 15, 16, and 38 surfaces plus black, white and brown checkers (JAN series)
Thank you!what a good editing.catch you later,))
Thank you! 🙌🏼🎲🎲🌟
Wow, that is a really nice looking board. Love the colors. Funny that they got your name wrong! Didn't they check with you, lol? How many FM boards do you now currently own and play on? 🤣
Hi, Fly! I currently have FIVE FMGammon boards, and that is after I gave one away, and sold another.
Two of the boards are branded by Backgammon Galaxy, but were made by FM: my Earth and Void boards.
you should have made Yellow's bar point with that 41
I’m sure you are correct, but I haven’t yet run it through XG. 🤘🏼
Great looking board!! I'm fairly new to playing backgammon and looking at a Crisloid Legacy or Backcountry models and FM Golden Sahara board, would you have a preference on either of those boards? I'm trying to keep it in the $350. to 500. range. I did find a Wycliffe Brothers model on ebay earlier in the year and bought it. Once again, I love your new board and appreciate any board wisdom, lol.
Brazcaster - Thanks for your comment and question.
If you know my videos, you know my very first board is a Crisloid with Legacy points. I think they are wonderful boards, but the cork surface isn’t to everyone’s taste. I can’t say I know the Backcountry brand, so I don’t know about that, but the lower priced FMGammon boards are very nice. I played on several earlier this year in Istanbul when I played in the Istavder Tavla (Istanbul Backgammon Club) Anniversary Tournament. Very nice, quiet playing surface, but with the wood-lined frame that I’ve grown to love with my FM boards. That’s my vote, to be honest.
Whatever you choose, I hope you enjoy the board very much! Cheers! ✨🎲🎲🙌🏼✨
@@jjmckenna Thanks for the reply. The backcountry is actually a Crisloid board. It has the backcountry points and a cool looking board. I was leaning toward the FMGammon board and maybe in the near future buy a Crisloid. 😃Thanks again!
@@brazcaster - I know the Crisloid board you’re talking about, with the Sasquatch walking on the board!
I think you’d be very happy with any of the FM boards, they’re pretty much my favorite, as you can tell from my various videos. Cheers! 🙌🏼💭✨🎲🎲
Like first then watch! As always, great review! Thank you for doing this.
Have you ever considered a board from Hector Saxe?
Hi, Pavel! Thanks for the support. I have had a couple people mention Hector Saxe, and I’ve looked at their website, but never considered buying one, yet.
I’m trying to get some interest from the folks that make the P-40 board, but they haven’t gotten back to me. 🫤
Hey Justin, great looking board. I got the exact color surface with my full size Walnut board. You had me rolling when you flashed your evil twin 🤣. How do you like playing on the shorter field? Does it make seeing and reaching for the checkers easier like Marc Olsen says?
Jim, Glad you caught the reference to my 'evil twin,' lol. I played on this board for about four hours last night with my playing partner, Sam, and I loved the layout. Very easy to see the board, so I do like this slightly more compact size. Thanks for your comment, cheers! ✌
They got the engraving wrong?!? Crap!
I know, right?! The guy responsible doesn’t speak great English, and didn’t check the spelling of my name, oddly.
I believe they have corrected the problem and that the boards offered on their website are now *correctly* spelled, lol.
Cheers! 👏🏼🎲🎲🔆
Green is my favorite color. However I am not a fan of staining wood with a green color. I think that a brown or red stain would look better in my opinion. I like the green field and the points but the frame color just doesn't do it for me.
You are quite particular about your boards, Mr. Walker! Cheers! 🙌🏼💫🎲🎲
I would have sent it back to them to get it fixed, so I wouldn't have to explain to whomever I play; who is this "Justine" at every tournament. 😔
Not good for a business that their strong suit is supposed to be attention to detail !
Yeah, I thought that was pretty funny, but there is NO WAY I’m sending this beautiful board back to Istanbul over a misplaced ‘e,’ lol. 🤭
@@jjmckenna Obviously you would feel uncomfortable in your situation. I meant if I as a regular customer paid for it, I would return 100%.
FM is the one who should ask you to fix their error in your case. I mean if you had some obscure difficult foreign name I would understand, or if they hadn't made it a female name I could bite the bullet maybe. But "Justin" is pretty easy at any country. No excuses are acceptable in this case in my humble opinion.
I hope it works out anyways :) cheers 🍻
That poor tabletop...
Lol, I know, this cheap table from Target has taken a beating over the last couple years with all these boxes and boards. 🤣
You are rich guy give me one pleas
Ha! Where do you live, in our matrix world, that is?
@@jjmckenna haha of course not is only Joke i have fmgammon board not to high not to low im happy
Hey Justin is there any way i can connect with you? Via email, facebook etc? I have a question, dont want to write here. ✌️
Hi, Daniel! You can send me a Friend invite in FB. Talk soon.