The Knight Templar Series Plastic Chess Pieces - 3.75" King

The Knight Templar Series Plastic Chess Pieces - 3.75" King

The forms of these chess pieces are a nice alternative to more classic shapes. The plastic is glossy, too. I generally prefer the satiny surface found on many House of Staunton plastic chess pieces, however, a different option is appreciated. These pieces are VERY compact for USCF tournament play, but still may suffice. Whether or not they are big enough depends on how the squares are considered, 2in or 50mm minimum (it is that close) and if the basepad is included in the kings height. This sets niche is that it is a very compact set for USCF over-the-board play, thus being easier to carry, pack, ship, and store.

I measure all of my chess sets. The manufacturing variances from House of Staunton for plastic chess sets are generally quite consistent for shape dimensions and fairly consistent for weight. Here are my measurements for this chess set (tolerances +/- .25mm and +/- .5 grams):

-King Base Diameter: 37.5mm

-King Height (not including basepad): 95.5mm

-Weight of Whole Set (including extra queens, if applicable): 889g

-Does the Set Include Extra Queens?: Yes

-Board Square Size for King Base 75% to 80% of Square: 1-7/8in (50mm good too, not 2in)

-USCF Tournament Suitable: Borderline. I would say yes

These pieces are a little small but they are adequately weighted. The plastic is a little shiny. I like the matte plastic of the other HoS plastic pieces better. That said, the shapes of these pieces are very beautiful. I love the design. I think HoS should make a 4 inch King version with the less shiny plastic. I love this set.

The Knight Templar Series Plastic Chess Pieces - 3.75" King is a very good beginners set. Like that these pieces are glossy. Another solid feature is that the white pieces are a cream / light natural off white instead of a pure bright white. Only con I find is that the pieces feel more double weighted and not triple as mentioned in description. Pieces arrived in nice condition, not scuffed or chipped. Made of good solid plastic with a firm feel to them. Set also came with a small cardboard box that you can keep for storing them in. Over all good set to have for starters and images shown on the web page are true to what you are getting. Be great if this set were offered in a dark red and ivory with the same gloss appearance.