Wycliffe Brothers 23” Prestige Class Backgammon Set *UNBOXING*

[@petermittak7960]

Really beautiful, stunning backgammon set, congratulations! Have a good game on it! I am also considering to buy a Wycliffe Brothers set in the very same colour (mustard field with green and white points - this seems to me very extraordinary, vibrant combination), but in the 21" size. I still have a slight concern about the quality, because I read several negative opinions on WB boards earlier, but I understand that they probably related to earlier versions before Gen III / Masters editions. In any case your review is quite convincing as to the quality (and also as to other factors), so this is one more point for buying that WB set. 😀 Thank you for the video, this was interesting and helpful!

[@jjmckenna]

Hey, Peter! Thanks for the kind words. I think the current version of the Wycliffe boards are well made. I also like the 21” sets, with the dished checkers if memory serves. So many nice color combinations to choose from! The green and yellow is from my alma mater (University of Oregon).

[@DrFly-ek4sx]

I realized, while watching your video *again* and trying to convince myself to buy a $450 board online, that your unwrapping of the green checkers @5:10 is very, as the young kids say, 'satisfying!' They come tumbling out in one big pour, like caviar from a sturgeon. Anyway, enjoy your videos and hope to see more!

[@jjmckenna]

Whoa, Dr. -- interesting visual that I can only partially imagine, since I have NOT kept up on my sturgeon anatomy lessons! Take it from me, if you're on the fence regarding a board in the $400-$500 range, and you can afford it, getting your hands on a beautiful new board is very SATISFYING. Good word!

[@mrboags]

Thanks for the Video I just ordered the same board. With Red / Black points and Green field with black and white checkers. I'm very excited about seeing and playing on my new board. I play everyday so this will get well used. After seeing your video. I'm super excited. Cannot wait. Ps. love the BIG doubling cube. Funny enough the one I use is Gold with black numbers very hard to see, lol Not anyone. 👍👍

[@jjmckenna]

Mr. Boags, Thanks for your comment! I’m sure you’re going to love your new board, especially with the ‘classic’ color combination you chose. Here’s to many good rolls and good matches, cheers! ✋🏼✨💫🎲🎲🌟

[@daniels1177]

This board is so amazing. I have one question, 8:18 4&3 and you go 17 fields?

[@jjmckenna]

I think I moved 13-6 for black, which is seven pips.

[@JB-lu7vz]

I have the 21 inch Wycliffe with the same mustard yellow field color which I really love. I do prefer however the 1 3/4" marbelized acrylic pieces as they move very smoothly around the board and are easy to pick up with their rounded edges

[@jjmckenna]

@@JB-lu7vz - I totally understand, and that’s one reason I ended up selling this board! I’ve played on the 21” boards at tournaments many times.

[@chriswalker810]

Seems like a budget friendly Geoffrey Parker Backgammon Set. Ooo I love the Mustard Yellow and Green colors. I have their 21 inch set in Grey field with Black and White points. I have Red and Orange checkers for that World Series of Backgammon look.

[@jjmckenna]

Chris, Thank you for the comment and the compliment! You're the first comment on this video in some weeks, which is surprising, because it's been my most popular video for some time. Yes, this set has all the characteristics and gravitas of a much more expensive set, like a Geoffrey Parker. Glad to know that you already enjoy the 21" Wycliffe, which is a real value. Cool checker choice for you, too!

[@gregormandl1381]

Over all, I like the WycliffeBrothers Boards very much :) And though it‘s not my favourite colour scheme, I like it very much-especially tje sound of dice cups and dice rolling I think I’ll get the Prestige Class Board in blue/red colour combination-that‘s more of my style :) Thanks for your video- Greetings from Vienna

[@jjmckenna]

Gregor - I agree the dice cups sounds great, along with the dice on the playing surface. They come in a variety of cool colors, as you likely know. Good value, but I’ve heard these boards can break down eventually.

[@gregormandl1381]

I‘m gonna treat it carefully ;)

[@jjmckenna]

@@gregormandl1381 - Always a good idea! Cheers!

[@wolfganglohfink9018]

Hi because of your video I also bought this board in August. I like the color combination very much. It would be great if you could review a p40 board once in the future.

[@jjmckenna]

Glad that my video resulted in you getting a board that you enjoy! I’ve had more requests to review a P-40 board than any other board. But, I think they have plenty of demand, so they don’t need my help. I also am not sure that I’d like the metallic noise from it, but they are interesting and aesthetic pleasing boards in other respects. Cheers! ✌🏼✨

[@trenthogan4212]

I love the board and colour, but not so much the checkers. I just ordered the 24" with acrylic checkers and a set of 16mm precision dice. Cheers

[@jjmckenna]

Trent, Thank you for the comment! I have to agree with you, the checkers on this board are pretty clunky! They are substantial, but if I wanted metal-edged checkers, I would want checkers from P-40. The 24” Wycliffe you bought is even longer than this board, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it very much. Cheers! 🙌🏼🎲🎲✨

[@paulfogarty7724]

Lovely board ! I also have a large board - 50mm pieces but it's very old...nicotine stains on the dice & cube ect. Like yours, it has two large hinges. It has to rest on them when you leave the board down. Can't add studs or it won't open flat. I think you should get a velvet carry / storage bag made for your board so the hinges don't get scuffed.

[@jjmckenna]

Starry, I like your idea a lot, as this Wycliffe Bros. board is around 13 pounds! Is your board with 50mm checkers a Wycliffe board? I am expecting another board from FMGammon in the near future (unboxing video to follow!), and that set comes with a carry bag. Maybe it will fit this board, too. Cheers, and thanks for your comment! 🤙🏼💨✨

[@hectorrangel1580]

@@jjmckenna Hi, i buy the 24 inch Wycliffe Brothers, and it is beautiful with 2 inches chekeers.

[@jjmckenna]

@@hectorrangel1580 - Héctor, that’s awesome! I hope you enjoy it for years to come! 👏🏼💨✨🎲🎲

[@hectorrangel1580]

@@jjmckenna Yes, thank you very much. Weeks before this beautiful 24-inch backgammon arrived, by mistake I bought 30 two-inch resin and metal backgammon chips from Moldova because i tought for 180 dlls. it will come with the board jeje, but i read not well and so the 300 checkers arrived, they are very nice and heavy, the thing is that when playing with them I must treat them with great tact because I think they can break the fabric, my wife is afraid to play with them and I only use them with great care. My question is, that type of metal and resin token, what type of surface is it for? Cork, vinyl, leather? Could you tell me? Thanks a lot. Regards!

[@jjmckenna]

@@hectorrangel1580 - I have 30 metal and resin checkers currently en route to me from Moldova, too! But, I plan to use them with my FTH board, which has a merino wool felt playing surface. That is what I think the metal edge checkers will work best on, but also a vinyl playing surface like the Wycliffe Bros. board you mention. As long as you are careful, they should work okay, but I’m not sure they would do great on cork. Wool or vinyl should work fine. Look for a new video from me soon; I will be unwrapping my new checkers and a new cube or two. Cheers!

[@jjmckenna]

If you are at all curious about His Hero is Gone, a 1990s hardcore punk band from Memphis, Tennessee, please check out the title track to their album, Monuments to Thieves, lyrics below: Statues built for bastards Monuments to thieves Who carved the name of the white man On the backs of the trees that hung black bodies Like ornaments Like ornaments Monuments to thieves Monuments to thieves Erections for your heroes: The liars and the thieves Who hung the name of the white man On the signs of our streets Like ornaments Like ornaments Monuments to thieves Monuments to thieves HHIG, 1997 [Black Lives Matter]

[@DrFly-ek4sx]

That is seriously heavy music, and seriously heavy lyrics. Whoa. Thanks for sharing.

[@jjmckenna]

Dr. Fly - This band, HHIG, was very influential. Members of the band were involved in another excellent band, Tragedy. Check them out!

[@jjmckenna]

After reviewing the materials that were included inside this gorgeous backgammon set, I can confidently say that this board is the same as whatever boards Wycliffe Bros. has been selling for some time. The insert included with the nice rule-book composed by backgammon legend Phil Simborg, clearly states that the vinyl inserts I notice and mention in the video are included specifically to allow for a snug fit with the nickel-plated checkers. Any notion that this is some sort of 'Generation 4' board, or anything different from boards of the recent past, is most likely incorrect. My initial impression is very positive! JM

[@DrFly-ek4sx]

Pretty impressive that you get 'cocked dice' twice in a row with the checkers. I've seen other 'metal edge' checkers where the dice won't be cocked if they land on the checker, but yours are different. What do you think of these checkers?

[@jjmckenna]

Dr. Fly - These checkers are very nice; hefty, edged with metal, solid, authoritative. The issue is that you probably should agree with your opponent to not play dice that land on these checkers. Half the time, the dice will be partly on the metal and partly on the vinyl, resulting in an illegal roll and required re-roll. Better to not play dice on the checkers at all. I’m very impressed with the board overall! Very stylish, hefty, solid and colorful. 🤘🏼🎲🎲✨

[@Spudmuffin00]

3:45- "Oh my God, that thing's massive" - Reply: "That's what she said"- Michael Scott, Dunder Mifflin; The Office TV show. Your welcome :) So I'm on the fence with what I want to upgrade to for a board. I initially watched your vid when you got your Crisloid, then this one. If you had but one choice between the two, which do you prefer and why? There's really no loser going with either, IMO. Please point out your own pros/cons with each and a preference if you could only have one. Many thanks and have a great day! Curt

[@jjmckenna]

Curt - Great reference to The Office! Between the Crisloid and the Wycliffe Bros. board, I'd probably have to go with the Crisloid. First, they are customizable. Second, they are made in the USA, while I believe the Wycliffe boards are factory-made. I also think the Crisloid will age better, but that is somewhat dependent on how much one plays on the board; I know that the cork surface can become worn over time with significant playing time. Either board is really nice to play on, however, so you can't go wrong. The Wycliffe boards do come in some really cool color combinations, and it's going to be cheaper than a Crisloid. The large board here goes for around $400, while the 21" board with the plastic checkers go for around $275. Cheers!

[@Spudmuffin00]

@@jjmckenna - Thank you for taking the time to reply as well as offer a great perspective. Dumb question, perhaps, but are there any times of the year when the Crisloid may go on sale? If yes, please suggest a few websites you'd recommend as well. Much appreciated and have a good one! Curt

[@jjmckenna]

@@Spudmuffin00 Curt, my understanding is that Crisloid is crazy busy with orders stemming from the COVID pandemic, and that custom orders are taking many weeks to reach their destination. I know Crisloid does have pre-made boards (Anchor, Legacy series, etc.), but I don’t think they regularly go ‘on sale.’ Your best bet for finding a Crisloid and/or Wycliffe ready to ship is likely eBay. Good luck! 👍🏼

[@mkandrac]

@@jjmckenna Wycliffe Bros. or Crisloid? Crisloid won for me in spite of the lack of corner protectors on the case, which I like on the Wycliffe Bros. boards. I appreciate the American made nature of Crisloid and their long tradition of excellence. I think the cork surface with hold up better, but most of all I think the Crisloid will hold its value over time more so than the Wycliffe Bros. boards. Having said that, I love the look of the WB boards.

[@jjmckenna]

@ I agree with you, except I like the sound of the surface and the cups better on the Wycliffe. You are correct that a Crisloid will hold its value longer; some of the Wycliffe boards start coming apart with a lot of use. The Crisloids are also customizable as well, an added bonus! Cheers! 🎲🎲🤘🏼

[@galagala9552]

The beast

[@jjmckenna]

It is a LARGE board, it’s true, but easy and fun to play on. I recommend it!

[@DrFly-ek4sx]

If you want to see a 'beast,' check out his review of the FMGammon board. That things looks MASSIVE and heavy!

[@user-vz8pb2fk5d]

Do you play in tournaments? If so, What would you say is the most common dice sized used? Is it 1/2 inch or 9/16 inch?

[@jjmckenna]

I haven’t played in any live tournaments, yet, though I hope to next year. I’m not sure about common dice size, but from what I have seen and can tell from observation, 9/16 precision dice appear to be pretty common. I have a set of 12mm precision dice, used in this video, and they’re pretty small.

[@johnk.1103]

This seems like a very nice board for a pretty decent price ($400). The different colorways are also very intriguing. Anything negative to say about it? Seems like one of the biggest boards out there! Keep up the cool reviews! What's your next target board?

[@jjmckenna]

John, I have nothing negative to say about this Wycliffe board, it's really very nice, and the substantial and interesting checkers make me feel like I'm playing a professional match. Next target board will likely be the Backgammon Galaxy board, if they EVER release it!

[@BackgammonNoord-brabant]

If price wasnt a issue wich board do you prefer this one or the galaxy earth board ?

[@jjmckenna]

Sebastiaan - Interesting question! I really like the wood construction and tones of the Earth board, as well as the interchangeable surfaces. So, if price is no object, it’s preferable. However, the Wycliffe Bros. board is an excellent board for the price. I think it’s well-made and people know it. That’s probably why it’s my #1 video. Cheers! ✌🏼

[@Magyar0649]

I've seen several of your backgammon board/set reviews and have found all of them to be VERY informative, thank you. I'm in the process of purchasing and higher end backgammon board/set and torn between this one and the Crisloid Tournament Attaché. My specific 'hang-up' is the checkers, not sure whether to go with the nickel plated that comes with Wycliff or the acrylic that comes with Crisloid. I'm sure both boards would fit my needs. Any thoughts, comments, suggestions?

[@jjmckenna]

Jeffery, Thank you for the kind words and the comment seeking input on your board choice. My personal preference is for the Crisloid over this specific Wycliffe Bros. board for a few reasons. First, Crisloid is a US-based company and the boards are built in Rhode Island. Second, you can find specific checkers with Crisloid that really fit your style and that go with a board that complements the checkers. I actually sold my Wycliffe board not long after I reviewed it, because I found the board simply too long and large! The checkers were also a bit clunky. Moreover, I’ve seen several Wycliffe boards after a few years of play, and some parts of them (specifically the cups) don’t hold up very well over time. The only thing about Crisloid boards that some people find off putting is the cork playing surface, which definitely has a different sounds and texture. I believe Crisloid is going to start offering boards with a fabric playing surface, but I have yet to see one, let alone play on one. You may want to consider an FMGammon board in the same price range as the Wycliffe or Crisloid (e.g., the Blackhawk, Yaldiz or Nature boards); they are very well made boards that come in a wide variety of styles and colors. I find that I play on my FM boards more than almost all my other boards. Hope this response helped, and good luck with your board adventure! Cheers! 🙌🏼✨🎲🎲

[@Magyar0649]

@@jjmckenna Thank you very much, this provides several good data points for me to consider. I am checking out the FM boards also. Thanks again.

[@user-vz8pb2fk5d]

Would you say they FM board is better value for the money than a Wycliffe?

[@jjmckenna]

Good question, and it depends on which boards you’re talking about. If you compare this $395 Wycliffe Bros. board to the FMGammon 2020 board, made of MDF (approx. $400-450US), my personal opinion is that the FM board has more style and character, and is a better overall value. That said, the Wycliffe boards are nice and come in some really appealing colors. I’d say the Wycliffe is a better value compared to the VIP board from FMGammon, as the VIP board costs closer to $800, because it’s made of solid Beechwood. All the boards I’ve reviewed are very nice. I’d say my personal preference is for the FM boards. Cheers! 🙌🏼💨✨🎲🎲

[@ashkanentesari2254]

@@jjmckenna Justin, any experience with P-40 boards? Never seen one in person but they look amazing. Wish they weren’t so pricey though. Thanks again!

[@jjmckenna]

@@ashkanentesari2254 - I contacted P-40 about acquiring a board for one of my videos, but they weren’t interested. I’ve watched a lot of backgammon on KZbin using P-40 boards, and I have to say I don’t like the metallic clatter of the checkers moving around. Far more satisfying is the sound produced by the wood framed playing surfaces of FMGammon boards, of which I own two! 🎲🎲✨💨

[@pauloconnor7392]

The playing field on this backgammon board is vinyl I have one of these earlier boards and the playing field is like a carpet it get very dirty

[@jjmckenna]

Paul, thanks for your comment. It never occurred to me that the ‘V-fiber’ on this board is vinyl. I guess that’s what the ‘V’ stands for! It’s definitely synthetic, but it seems very nice to me. Surely capable of getting dirty, which is true of many ‘felt’ surfaces. Beautiful colors, though, and many eye-catching color combinations!

[@pauloconnor7392]

Thanks I have too get one of them keep up the videos 👍

[@jjmckenna]

@@pauloconnor7392 - Thank you! I'm in discussion with a couple other board manufacturers, trying to work out arrangements (FTH, P-40). We shall see!

[@jim5pie]

So it's been a year. How's she holding up?

[@jjmckenna]

Jim - I actually sold this board a while back! I gave another board away as a birthday gift, and sold a third to a guy in Mexico. Overall, I now own seven boards. I haven’t played on any of them enough that it’s even noticeable! They all pretty much look unscathed! ✨🎲🎲✨

[@jim5pie]

@@jjmckennalol I thought that might be the case. You do have a lot of beautiful boards. And I agree with you on the FM gammon boards. I think they are some of the finest. I'm going to have to save up. Thanks for the great content, keep it up. Would love to see how your tournament experiences go. 👍

[@joelnehl]

How did the checkers hold up over the last year? Would you still recommend this board?

[@jjmckenna]

Joel, I can’t verify how the checkers held up, because I actually sold this board last year to a guy in Indiana. However, I can say without hesitation that this board was very nice to play on, and a good bargain, for the heft and size. Taken good care of, I think it would last for a long time. Cheers! ✨🎲🎲✨✌🏼

[@KleberD91]

Sry but i dont understand what you say about the inlay. Its V Fiber? What is that? Looks like felt for me

[@jjmckenna]

Thanks for your comment and for pointing out, correctly, that I don’t explain what V-fiber is. As far as I know, it’s a proprietary synthetic fabric used on the Wycliffe boards. I think there have been mixed reviews on how well it holds up to regular use. Hope that clarifies things a little! 🙌🏼💭🎲🎲

[@KleberD91]

@@jjmckenna thx for answer. Wasnt sure i understand it right. You buy all these bords? Or get them for presentation? If you still have all, i really intrested in seeing your complete collection!

[@jjmckenna]

@@KleberD91 - I have purchased all my boards, except for the FMGammon ‘Hera’ board, and the FM ‘Justin McKenna’ board that just came out. I actually sold this Wycliffe Bros. board a couple years ago, but I did like it a lot while I owned it. I’m hoping to acquire, and unbox, a P-40 board in the near future. Cheers! 🎈

[@paulcurrell8546]

Hello there. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching your unboxing videos. Can I ask which is your favorite and why? You know, the old hypothetical scenario that there is some sort of disaster and you can only save one board, which would it be? Cheers Paul

[@jjmckenna]

Paul, thank you for the kind words, and the interesting question. It's a tough one: which would be my 'desert island board?' Clearly, the Gammoner is a special piece, but I think it should be taken out of contention, since it's essentially a collector's item. Of the remaining boards, I would have to say that the 'VIP Mete' board from FMGammon is likely my favorite. It is beautiful inside and out, has a sonority that is almost hypnotizing, and is a very pleasant size. Although I love the dark grey playing field and brilliant points of the 'Hamdi' board from FM, and the gorgeous, slick and perfect merino wool playing surface of the custom FTH board, neither has the perfect tone of the 'Mete' FM board. The Crisloid, my first custom board, is also a special board, but I'd be afraid that the cork playing surface might deteriorate over time. That said, I'll never part with the Crisloid, and it has a special place in my heart. The Wycliffe Bros. board, while substantial and colorful, isn't in the same league, frankly. Thanks again, and I hope to add a board or two to my collection this year!

[@user-qw4pd2em7o]

Hi! Quite new to the game of backgammon, but I am wondering if you have any experience with the larger Hector Saxe boards? Hopefully picking up either one of those, or an FMGammon board. (does the boards from FMGammon come with checkers?) Thank you, sir! Greetings from Norway.

[@jjmckenna]

Ove - I had another viewer also ask about Hector Saxe boards, but I find them rather expensive. Depending on your budget, I highly recommend the pure wood FMGammon boards (Mete, Onur, Hera). If your budget is more modest, I recommend either this 23” Wycliffe board, or the slightly smaller 21” board. Good luck and cheers! 🎈💨✨

[@user-qw4pd2em7o]

@@jjmckenna Hello again! Just wanted to let you know that I have now purchased my first backgammon board, and FM Gammon "earth board" in the colab with BackgammonGalaxy and Marc Olsen. Was no other option after watching your great videos over and over. Greetings from Norway!

[@jjmckenna]

@@user-qw4pd2em7o - That sounds like a great purchase, Ove! I’m sure you will enjoy that beautiful board. I really like the green marbled checkers and the removable trays. Kudos! 🎈

[@treborpohsib6038]

Where can I purchase a Wycliffe brothers backgammon set?

[@jjmckenna]

Good question, Trebor! It may depend on where you live. I live in the USA, and I purchased my board from a website called GammonVillage.com. I have also seen Wycliffe boards on eBay, and I bet you can have such a board sent almost anywhere in the world. So, I would check eBay first, then other websites that may ship to where you live. Good luck! These are nice boards for the money. 🎲🎲💨✨😎

[@ashkanentesari2254]

Great videos Justin! I’m in between the Wycliffe or Crisloid. Which would you choose? I’m worried the cork on Crisloid is way too slippery.. thanks!!

[@jjmckenna]

Ashkan - Thanks for the support, and the question! I will admit that the cork playing surface of a Crisloid board is unique; it’s not to everyone’s taste. I don’t find it particularly slippery, and my board’s slickness has calmed down over the months. It’s more whether you think it would satisfy you long-term. I think the Wycliffe Bros. boards are very nice. Between the bright colors and the price ($265 for the 21” board; $395 for the 23” board with metal checkers), I think they’re a great deal, and they play very well with the padded synthetic playing surface. I think it depends on your personal aesthetic. Hope this helps and good luck! 🙌🏼💨✨

[@ashkanentesari2254]

@@jjmckenna sounds great, thank you Justin! Appreciate the feedback!

[@bogdanblidar1659]

Hello, what are the dimensions of the board?

[@jjmckenna]

I don’t recall, but it is approximately 23 inches long when closed. I believe you can find the exact dimensions on the Gammon Village website on which these boards are sold. Cheers!

[@MikeTennerOfficial]

I could get a wycliff Masters Edition (with the 'normal' checkers) for 250€ or a crisloid Tournament Board for 330€. I dont know which one to get. Im Not too much into the korg surface of the crisloid Boards...but people say the Quality is better and i actually like the checkers more...but therefore i like the colorways of the wycliff Boards much more plus the cube. Hm. An fm Board for 800 or 1000 bucks is much to expensive imo.

[@jjmckenna]

Baby, I know it’s a tough decision. I like both the Wycliffe and Crisloid. I think I would recommend the Wycliffe if you don’t play daily. It should hold up well to regular play, but maybe not daily play. The Crisloid boards are built very well, but you may have to wait for it. Also, if you’re not sure about the cork surface, I think you will like the Wycliffe surface. Good luck! 🍀👍🏼 🎲🎲✨

[@alainhanna344]

Waaawa!!! I wish i have it😢

[@jjmckenna]

Alain, make your wish come true! This huge and commanding backgammon board only costs $400US, and can be shipped to anywhere in the world. Make it happen! Cheers!

[@alainhanna344]

I will save ur name and i will order it once i decide

[@SalvableRuin]

It can't rest on the hinges because when you open it, the hinges are on the top lol

[@jjmckenna]

The back of the hinges are on the outside of the frame, but they don't keep this large board from being able to stand up on its own. The hinges on the inside of the board are quite large, as you have noted. Plenty of room on the bar for my opponent's checkers, though, lol.

[@tfries72]

Lol Justin! I’ve been looking at the Wycliffe set at gammon village same set different color way. Great minds think alike How does it compare to your crisloid? Sooner or later we will be getting P40 or Taki boards lol. Cheers!

[@jjmckenna]

Hey there, Ty! Great minds indeed! I like this board very much, both for the substantial checkers, but also the padded playing surface, which has a lovely sound and is smooth as a baby’s butt! Reminds me of Geoffrey Parker boards, except reasonably priced. What color scheme are you eyeing? It’s definitely different than the Crisloid, which has a slightly slicker playing surface, and a different timbre to the dice on the cork, and lighter checkers, but I love the Crisloid and will never part with it! FYI, I should be receiving a Turkish board in the near future from FMGammon and I plan to do an unboxing video of that board, too! Cheers, mate! 🎲🎲

[@tfries72]

You’re on a roll! I was considering an FM gammon board instead of Wycliffe I’ll await your review to make that move! And yeah the crisloid was my first quality bird wont part with it for sure

[@xDerDerx]

Justin how is the boars holding up over the months? Are you getting much use out of it over your other boards? Interested in this board, it’s in my price range. Wondering if it’s better to just save up for something else. Heard these have some durability issues.

[@jjmckenna]

xDerDerx - I admit that I sold this board not long after I purchased it, to finance the purchase of my FMGammon Mete board. However, I have nothing bad to say about this board. It is massive and imposing, and the checkers have a sense of authority. For $400, it's a good bargain. The 21"version of this board, with the resin checkers, is an even better deal at about $265. For around the same price as the larger Wycliffe board, you should consider the FM Hamdi board, which I also reviewed a couple months after this board. It's a really nice style, and has a wood interior frame, so a different personality than this more 'traditional board. You can't go wrong, either way. Hope this helps! Cheers, and let me know if you have any other questions.

[@xDerDerx]

@@jjmckenna Thanks!!! I’m jumping head first into this. I’ll consider the FM board as well, especially if I could get it for $400-600. I love the colors on your Hamdi board. My wife says I never ask for anything for gifts because I always buy everything on my own. I’ll be nudging her in this direction.

[@jjmckenna]

@@xDerDerx - The Hamdi is definitely in that price range, and it’s a very stylish board. I may do a comparison video, comparing my FTH board and my FM Hamdi board, because they are similar in size, but very different in terms of personality. Not that far apart in terms of price, though the FTH boards are more expensive at around $600-$650.