FMGammon 'Hamdi' Backgammon Set Unboxing

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Link to *MY T-SHIRT BAND* - Aphex Twin: • Aphex Twin - IZ-US (Ex...
My unboxing and review of a brand new FMGammon 2020 'Hamdi' backgammon board, direct from FM's factory in Istanbul, Turkey. This is my second FMGammon board, following my acquisition of a 'Mete VIP' solid beechwood board from FMGammon in October 2020, my favorite board.
I obtained this board as a gift for a friend and fellow backgammon lover, wanting to do a video showcasing the board's beauty, while also highlighting its reasonable price. This board normally retails for somewhere in the $400-$450 range, and I encourage prospective customers to work with FMGammon to find, or build, a board that appeals to you. A beautiful and solid tournament size backgammon board is a work of art that will last for generations.
Unlike the higher-end VIP and Signature boards from FMGammon, made of beechwood and mahogany, respectively, this board is made of medium density fiberboard (MDF), a manufactured wood product used in many household items, such as shelving, flooring, furniture and cabinetry. It is an ideal wood product to use for a backgammon board, because it will hold up over time, and it's much more reasonably priced than hardwood boards.
The deep blue-grey playing surface on this board is simply stunning, with points that 'pop' off the playing surface. The heavily marbled checkers are absolutely gorgeous. The cotton felt of the playing surface is literally as soft as a cotton baby diaper, and has a nice slickness to it that is complemented by the flat checkers. I really like the slot for the doubling cube, which includes two sets of precision dice, with serial numbers showing the dice were all produced in the same lot. The inclusion of a second set of finger-dished checkers is an example of the generosity and professionalism of the FM team. Thank you!
As mentioned in the video, FMGammon produced the 50 limited-edition Neptune boards released in November 2020 by Backgammon Galaxy, and is also producing the 'Earth' boards that will be coming out in Spring 2021. The compact tournament-sized Neptune boards are unique and well-made, which explains why they sold out in about one week. I expect that the 'Earth' boards will also sell very well, as they are also made of solid beechwood. I may get one myself!
I would not hesitate to recommend FMGammon boards to anyone who loves backgammon.
To view unboxing and review videos of my other backgammon boards, check out the links below:
FMGammon 'Talat' Premium backgammon set, with interchangeable playing surfaces and multiple leather accessories *Unboxing*'
• FMGammon ‘Talat’ (Prem...
869 Backgammon / Erhan Boards Backgammon set, a custom-designed "board of my dreams" designed in collaboration with the board maker Unboxing • 869 Backgammon / ‘Erha...
FTH Tournament Backgammon set, custom build, with 45mm checkers and merino wool felt playing surface Unboxing
• FTH Tournament Backgam...
Crisloid Tournament Attaché backgammon set, custom-designed, with unique checkers, and upgraded leather dice cups Unboxing
• Crisloid Tournament At...
Wycliffe Brothers 'Prestige Class' 23" Backgammon board w/ 1.75" nickel plated checkers Unboxing
• Wycliffe Brothers 23” ...
FMGammon 'Mete' VIP Backgammon board, made of solid beechwood, with a felt playing surface, precision dice and scoreboard included Unboxing
• FMGammon 'Mete' Backga...
Gammoner Paul Magriel Commemorative "X-22" Backgammon board, a limited edition board (only 22 produced worldwide) with stunning custom checkers Unboxing • Gammoner "X-22" Paul M...
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Опубликовано:

1 дек 2020

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Комментарии : 103

@nickrice7535 2 года назад

Those look like the nicest white Checkers I've seen. Beautiful board...

@jjmckenna 2 года назад

Nick - I agree, both these blue and white checkers are some of the nicest checkers I've ever seen with a board. Too bad I sold this board and the checkers to a guy in Mexico!

@cevdetguvendiren1175 3 года назад

Justin you are to blame if my wife kills me, İ just ordered one and counting the days untill for it to arrive. What excites me the most is the conbinations you can make, tailor made for you one of a kind.10 points goes out you for your work from İstanbul.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Cevdet, Congratulations, and I’m sure your wife will change her mind when she sees how beautiful these boards are, and how much you will enjoy playing on it. If she does want to blame me, have her leave a comment here, and I’ll defend you and myself! 🤣 Cheers!

@petermacdonald9363 3 года назад

love these videos ... looking forward to the next ones ... nothing beats the sense of occasion a decent board gives to a game of backgammon - thanks for sharing

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Peter - Thank you so much for the kind words of encouragement! I agree that a beautiful backgammon board is something that makes the game more enjoyable, and is a thing of beauty to be treasured and passed down through future generations. I have more videos to come, if the boards ever make it out of customs and into the crowded holiday mail stream. Hoping for a board to arrive next week, in fact, so stay tuned! 🎲🎲✨✊🏼

@agerray 3 года назад

Another great review - keep them coming! Thanks for showing how well the checkers fit on the board. :-)

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Raymond, that request stuck in my head, which is why I remembered to demonstrate the checker fit. Cheers!

@petermittak7960 3 года назад

Another fantastic board! It is also very beautiful, I particularly like the grey field with the blue and white points, and the blue and white checkers are also extraordinary. I would not be surprised if you kept it at the end. 😀 Thanks for the presentation - keep up these videos, they are very interesting and helpful!

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Péter, Thank you for the encouragement! This is indeed a striking board, and I may need to come up with an alternative gift for my friend! Glad you find the videos informative; there are more coming!

@TheKingOfSwampCastle 3 года назад

Another great review Justin. Love that color combo!

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Thanks, Greg! It’s a gorgeous board all around! ✨🎲🎲👍🏼

@TheKingOfSwampCastle 3 года назад

Hey Justin - you convinced me. I ordered an MDF board FMGammon last week. Onur from FMG was very helpful through the process of the board, checker, and dice selection. I decided to go with the "Ali" 2019 model. The 2019 layout is a bit different. The set is beautiful! I love the faux wood surface, the checkers, and the precision dice which were included. FM also threw in the updated scoreboard. Most amazing - I ordered the board on a Thursday, and it arrived from Istanbul to San Francisco on Monday.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

That’s awesome, and I’m glad you got the board so quickly, and that it’s beautiful right out of the box. I’m sure you and your family will love it, cheers! 👏🏼💨🎲🎲✨🎈

@johnk.1103 3 года назад

Justin, while you did do 'better' here than the previous FM video (blunder-fest, lol), you make a small error at 10:00 when you move 5-3 for blue. In the video, you come down from the bar to your 20, and then almost move 8/5, which would have been a massive blunder. Instead, you chose to move down 13/10, which is the error. Optimal play was Bar/22 13/8. Just an FYI! Keep up the videos and maybe next time you'll be 'error free!'

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

John, that’s funny, and good to know someone is paying attention! I’m expecting an FTH board any day now, so if I incorporate some opening game play into the video, I hope to be on my ‘A game!’ Thanks for the encouragement! 🙌🏼✨🎲🎲🎈

@chriswalker810 3 года назад

Excellent review. So much so that I am going to get it. However I am going to make some changes to the stock version. I am going to have it in Backgammon Galaxy colors for the playing surface. The checkers will be solid Dark Red and solid Yellow. I am going for a UK 8 Ball theme. These colors will for sure make it look like this theme I am going for.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Chris - That sounds like an amazing combination, congratulations! If you have any issues with getting in touch with FMGammon, ask for Onur Ihtiyar, my new friend who works with the company. He is both knowledgeable and easy to communicate with and can help you get exactly what you want. I want to see the final product! Cheers!

@KamilKaraali 3 года назад

I am envious...I need to get a new board immediately :-))

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Kamil - I definitely recommend checking out FMGammon’s website. They have multiple boards at good prices in their Outlet, including this board in different colors. Reach out to Ali at FM by email: info@fmgammon.com and he can let you know what they have in stock, ready to ship.

@KamilKaraali 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna Thanks a lot, Justin...Hoping to meet you in live tournaments

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@KamilKaraali - That would be really cool, Kamil! I hope so, too! ✨🎲🎲✨

@Kurkahn. 3 года назад

That's à beauty ! Too bad my gf don't want me to spent that much for one of these boards haha. I really hope one day to be able to.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Kévin! If your girlfriend does not understand the importance of a nice tournament size backgammon board, or your love of the game generally, I think you need to have a long talk with yourself in the mirror, amirite! Save up a slush fund and get one of these boards when you can. You’ll be happy you did! 🤘🏼🎲🎲✨

@johnk.1103 3 года назад

Dude, you are really on a tear with the multiple boards! This is a real beauty with that dark grey field. The points really 'pop!' And it comes with precision dice? Nice! Keep it up. What is that weird symbol on your shirt? Another metal band?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

John, thank you for the positive vibes! No, the symbol is Aphex Twin, a techno/ambient artist who’s been around for decades! Check out his Selected Ambient Works, 85-92. Seminal.

@johnk.1103 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna - That is really interesting music! Looked it up on Spotify. I had no idea this guy is so popular! His other stuff is even weirder!

@bigdon3975 3 года назад

I like your musik taste too ( shirt)😎

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

People that are ‘in the know’ always compliment me on this t-shirt! You must have excellent taste in music! Cheers! 🎶🔊👁‍🗨🖤🎧🌚🕶🎶

@bold2013 2 года назад

I just ordered their new more modern board the YALDIZ. It is like an affordable earth board with built in checker slots.

@jjmckenna 2 года назад

Mike: Great choice for a board! It looks super nice, and I’m sure it will play as nicely as a Mete or Onur board, which are significantly more expensive. Kudos! 👏🏼💨✨

@littlemute1 3 года назад

nice shirt.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Thanks! I get compliments on it from 'people in the know,' like you, with excellent taste in music.

@barrystephenson4080 3 года назад

they look beautiful. Are there extra import duties on these boards?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

I am not aware of any ‘extra’ expenses involved with getting this board to the USA, where I live. Shipping was included in the price and the board got to me via FedEx very quickly, around four days. Hope that answers your question! Cheers!

@DrFly-ek4sx 3 года назад

That is a beautiful, and relatively affordable, tournament-size board! Unfortunately, it looks like FM is sold out of that board. I hope they make another board that has a similar look, because I really like the dark colors with the white and light blue points. Really extraordinary! Thanks for the details. How do you feel about the MDF as compared to the other FM board, now that you've had some time to play on both?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Dr. Fly, Thanks for the feedback! Yes, I was surprised to see that FM sold out of their MDF boards, but I have been informed that more are in process. I think the MDF boards are excellent! They have the nice wood tone with the dice and checkers, but without the high price tag. I’d definitely recommend one to anyone that wants a true tournament-size board, at a reasonable price point. Cheers!

@ashkanentesari2254 3 года назад

Hello again Justin. So now I’m leaning towards the FM board, (over Wycliffe and Crisloid), especially at the price point, I think why not spend $50 or so more. What’s the difference between the Hamdi and the Mete? Also, did you order through their website? You don’t seem to get many options on the site. Thanks again!

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Ashkan - I highly recommend FMGammon, and I find myself playing on these boards over and over again. The difference is in materials and price. The Mete board is constructed of solid beechwood, and costs more, whereas the Hamdi is made of MDF (manufactured wood) and is significantly less expensive. Prices are on the FM website. The Mete board can be customized, unlike the Hamdi. I suggest getting in touch with Onur Ihtiyar at FM (on FB, or via email) and he can work with you to get the board that works for your price range. Good luck and enjoy it! 🎲🎲✨💨

@RustyNotesTV 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna And the sound difference?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@RustyNotesTV Rusty - The sound difference is pretty much imperceptible. The MDF is wood, simply not pure wood, so it’s tone is still warm and round when the dice and checkers meet the sides of the playing surface. An expert might be able to distinguish, but I can’t. Hope this helps! Cheers!

@MrAbYounes 3 года назад

Do these alternate checkers come with the board or is this just a display thing?

@MrAbYounes 3 года назад

I mean with the order

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Abe - I completely spaced out on the alternative checkers that came with this board. They were a ‘gift’ from FMGammon, likely because of my first unboxing video, which they really appreciated. I don’t use these alternative checkers much at all; I prefer the checkers that came with this board, with their nice marbling. Sorry for the brain freeze! Thanks for your question. Cheers!

@jiffypoops 3 года назад

Are the grooved checkers exactly the same size as the flat ones ? Do you prefer one set of checkers ?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Maxime - Good question! It's very close, but the flat checkers are just slightly thinner than the grooved checkers. I admit I prefer the flat checkers, because of the beautiful marbling and vibrant colors! Both sets are exactly 44.5mm wide , but the flat checkers are 9mm thick, while the dished checkers are 10mm thick. The dished checkers DO fit in the bear off grooves of this board, but with very little room to spare, whereas the flat checkers have a bit more room. Cheers!

@jiffypoops 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna thanks a lot for the thorough response! Might end buying a board very similar to this one!

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@jiffypoops - Oh, you really should, if you’re thinking about it! Leap off the fence and go for it! You’ll be very glad you did; a beautiful board like this will last a lifetime. 🙌🏼💨✨🎲🎲

@alexmarouf3850 3 года назад

Thanks for sharing Justin! Curious, in your research have you found any board manufacturers that make a 50mm checkers board and at a cheaper price?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Alex, thanks for your question. The short answer is No, I haven't seen any board manufacturers that make reasonably priced boards that can accommodate huge 50mm (1.97 in.) checkers. The board needs to be pretty wide to do that. Even the 23" Wycliffe Bros. board that I reviewed, which is a behemoth, had only 45mm checkers (1.75 in.). I see that FTH Backgammon makes a 'Titan' class board with 50mm checkers, but those boards are priced at $1,200 and up! I'll keep my eyes peeled, however, and if I see anything, I'll let you know.

@jonslawnsofannapolis6889 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna Wycliffe makes a 24" board for 2" checkers. I just got one for about $260 www.gammonvillage.com/backgammon-shop/backgammon-sets/professional-backgammon-sets/wycliffe_brothers_24inch_backgammon_set_with_2inch_checkers_brown_case_with_brown_field_club_class.cfm

@zionvw 3 года назад

@@jonslawnsofannapolis6889 what's your opinion of this set? they have a different one on sale. I like the 2 inch checkers. Thanks

@jondouglas6960 3 года назад

@@zionvw it is a nice budget board. The checkers are nice. They slide well and fit perfect. I like that the faux leather is not croc. The cube is ridiculous but an easy swap out. I personally think i prefer 1.75 checker sets, but I am glad to have a 2".

@RustyNotesTV 3 года назад

Would you say that this have the same sound as their other wood boards?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

As I mentioned in another comment, I can’t distinguish the sound difference clearly. This board, like the Mete and Talat, has a nice tone. Perhaps this board’s tone is slightly different, maybe not as ‘deep’ as the solid wood boards, but I find it very pleasant nonetheless.

@RustyNotesTV 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna alright! Good to know! I'm buying a FM today and want to get it right. I love the wood look of meta, but it sure is expensive for a hobby player. So what you get different at the end of the day is the wood look and the changeable playing surfaces I guess? Or what happens if you take extra playing Matt's and just lay them on top of the existing one on this board?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@RustyNotesTV Rusty - I’m not 100% certain that the changeable playing surfaces fit onto the Hamdi playing surface, but if they do, it would simply make the board a little less ‘deep,’ but would not otherwise affect play, I believe. I thought of doing the same thing. Hope you get one and enjoy it! 🎈

@brianviholt9434 3 года назад

What model is this one ? I love it - did you buy from their website or ebay? Can one get better prices on ebay?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Brian - Thanks for your question. I bought this 2020 model directly from FMGammon. I believe they are sold out of this specific model, but I encourage you to check out their website to look into what they have available. I believe you’ll likely get a lower price by negotiating with FM directly, so they can avoid eBay’s high fees. I have it on good authority that FM has new 2021 models coming out next month, and will also be producing another version of the Backgammon Galaxy board, perhaps priced lower than the first version! Good luck! 🍀 🎲🎲✨

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Brian, FMGammon now appears to have a handful of these boards in stock, so if you email info@fmgammon dot com, you might be able to put your name down for one. They also appear to have some other MDF boards that are very nice looking. FM’s Facebook page from today shows photos of these boards and some others. Good luck! 🍀

@LoudGamerzTM 3 года назад

Holy wow. What a beauty! Also, did you once review a Middleton 21" board with a green field and red and white points? I thought it was you but I can't find that video.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Loud, Yes, the link is below. It’s an unboxing and review of a 23” Wycliffe Bros. board with a mustard yellow field with green and white points. I have more boards coming, so look for more videos in the future! 🙌🏼💨✨🎲🎲 ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-CqCvLU_Xk8Y.html

@someguysart2 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna Hey Justin, my name is Guy and I'm interested in ordering an mdf version, $500ish is my budget and I wasn't aware they could be ordered new that cheaply! Could you explain how you found and ordered it, i don't see any boards in that price range on their website. Is there a USA phone number I can call and talk to them? Thanks in advance for your assistance....Happy 2021!

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@someguysart2 Guy, I worked with a new friend, Onur Ihtiyar, who is associated with FMGammon, in acquiring my board. I believe that particular ‘2020’ model may be sold out. I’ve sent a message to Onur asking about when they are expecting to have new stock of MDF boards. I suspect it will be fairly soon. You are also free to email Onur directly. His English is perfect, and he can respond to your message. His email is on the FMGammon website. If I find out any more information, I’ll post another reply to this comment. Good luck!

@someguysart2 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna Thank you so much Justin for your assistance, I was considering a custom Crisloid, but if i can get a FMgammon for a little more, I think that would be a better choice overall, yes?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@someguysart2 - Guy, I think it depends on personal preference, but I will admit that I have come to prefer the soft felt playing surface, and the wood frame of the FMGammon boards. I did receive a response from my Turkish friend Onur, and he indicated that they are currently OUT of stock of MDF boards, but are expecting to have new models in the near future. He suggested that you write to the 'info' email address (on their website), and put your name down with them, so that they can contact you when new boards are available in your price range. I think you will REALLY enjoy an FMGammon board. Good luck!

@pauloconnor7392 3 года назад

Is that a apex twin t shirt

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Paul, you’re darn right it is. Love me some Richard David James! 🤘🏼

@bigbo5291 3 года назад

Ordered this board last week based mainly on this review :) Do you know if they are having shipping issues right now? I cant seem to get a response from them

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Bo - I passed on your concern to my good friend Onur Ihtiyar at FM and I’m sure he will get in touch with you. One thing I’m sure is that you will LOVE this board. I do, especially the amazing checkers. Cheers and drop me a line here when you’ve had some time to enjoy your new board. Cheers! 🎈

@onurihtiyar3521 3 года назад

We are so sorry to hear that you didnt get a response. Can you email us again? Onur@fmgammon.com -- or pls share your full name and I will track your order

@bigbo5291 3 года назад

@@onurihtiyar3521 Thank you for the quick reply, Ill be sending my info shortly.

@bigbo5291 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna Thank you for your help, I am stoked about this board (1st board I have ever bought). Been playing on a family owned smaller board for years. Thanks again.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@bigbo5291 - Glad you were able to make contact with FM, ensuring your new board gets to you SOON!

@user-pw8dg2gc3c 2 года назад

Hey, how much is this painting? Its so beautiful.

@jjmckenna 2 года назад

Hello! I’m not sure if you are asking about the painting on the wall, or the backgammon board. The painting with the mother and child is a limited edition print that was then hand-finished by the artist with additional flourishes, such as the hand prints, as well as song lyrics. The artist is Page Hamilton, founder and guitarist of the heavy metal band Helmet. I purchased it in around 2010. If you’re talking about the backgammon board, that sold for around US$500, but I hear they are no longer produced by FM Gammon. Let me know if you have any other questions, cheers! 🌈

@storylineamerica4108 3 года назад

Time for a Geoffrey Parker board...JK! Personally I prefer a board that doesn't cost anymore than a pair of shoes

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Storyline - I hear you, but I guess it depends on how much you've spent on shoes, right? I think $200-$400 is a good range to consider, for a tournament-size board with beautiful checkers that should last for many generations. Backgammon is a game that I hope will be played by my children, and their children's children. But I wax philosophical. Cheers!

@G4be9896 3 года назад

How much does it cost?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Emanuel - If you check FMGammon's website (www.fmgammon.com), this board is listed on their website as costing 450 Euros, shipping included. If you're interested in getting one of these boards, send an email and ask for Onur Ihtiyar to respond to you with availability, shipping estimates, etc. He is very easy to work with, and now a good friend of mine. I love this board!

@slivy4402 3 года назад

No link to where to buy this ?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Slivy, Unfortunately, FMGammon is sold out of this board, as well as their MDF boards generally. However, I’m now friends with Onur Ihtiyar of FMGammon and he’s informed me that they should have new stock on their website in the near future. Thanks for asking! I’m hopeful FM’s new boards will be as attractive as this beauty. Website: www.fmgammon.com

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Slivy, Coincidentally, FMGammon just posted pictures on their Facebook page showing that they have a limited number of these boards available for sale. If you contact them via email, you can inquire: info@fmgammon dot com. Good luck!

@Rory757 3 года назад

How much did FedEx charge for such a huge box?

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

Rory, I’m not sure what FMGammon pays to ship these boxes around the world, but I know it’s not cheap. As for this board, however, shipping was included in the price. If interested in obtaining a board from FM, make sure to confirm that shipping is included in your final price.

@Rory757 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna Great deal for the board then with the shipping included, I'm amazed, I know is not cheap, even if they have a deal with FedEx. I like very much their boards, the only thing I don't like is the point's rounded part, not a fan of that look, but they changed it for the galaxy boards so I guess is customizable? Thanks for your reply Justin, good luck!

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@Rory757 Rory, I’m sure the board can be customized to exactly what you want, rounded points or no. I personally love that look. The person to reach out to at FMGammon is my new friend Onur Ihtiyar. He is very knowledgeable about the process and can help you, if interested in pursuing a board through FM. Good luck! 👍🏼

@Rory757 3 года назад

@@jjmckenna I definitely would like to explore the possibility to buy a luxury board, maybe from them, I'll check their website again to make up my mind. The contact would be much appreciated.

@jjmckenna 3 года назад

@@Rory757 - Rory, you should definitely reach out to Onur Ihtiyar, who works closely with FM. Not sure about whether one can customize these lower priced MDF boards, but there is nothing to be lost in reaching out and letting FM know what you’d like. Good luck! 👍🏼 💨🎲🎲✨