Backgammon Opening 3-1: The Perfect Move to Start
Published on June 25, 2026 · Updated on July 6, 2026
Opening with the roll 3-1 is one of the most valuable rolls in backgammon – unlike many other rolls, there’s little debate about the right move here.
The standard move: 8/5, 6/5
The classic move after a 3-1 roll, correct in practically every situation, is 8/5, 6/5: one checker moves from point 8 to point 5, a second from point 6 also to point 5. Both checkers land together on the 5-point, fully securing it.
- 8/5: The checker from point 8 moves to point 5.
- 6/5: The checker from point 6 also moves to point 5.
The 5-point is known as the “golden point” – one of the most valuable points in your own home board. Occupying it in the opening makes life much harder for your opponent’s back checkers and lays the groundwork for a later prime.
Why is this move so strong?
The move does two jobs at once: it brings a lagging checker from the 8-point to safety, and it secures one of the most valuable points on the entire board. That combination of safety and structural strength is exactly why 8/5, 6/5 comes out on top in virtually every rollout analysis – alternatives like splitting the back checkers are clearly behind it.
What comes after the 3-1 roll?
With the 5-point secured, attention turns to the following rolls: building out other central points such as the bar point, see opening with 6-1, or weighing whether an early hit is even worth it – more on that in Courage to Attack. For an overview of all standard opening moves, see Backgammon Openings: The Best Moves.
About the Author
Ulf Mayer
I love backgammon in all its forms – whether it's a quick match on my smartphone to pass the time, or a glass of wine alongside a beautiful wooden board with family and friends. As the founder of backgammon-meister.de, I share my passion, tactics, and tips to help both beginners and ambitious players dominate their next match. Dice cup ready? Let's master the game!
backgammon-meister.de has been online since 2008.