Opening roll 6-1: make the bar point
Play 13/7 8/7 to make your bar point and start a blockade.
Why 13/7 8/7
6-1 makes your bar point (the 7-point) with 13/7 8/7. With the 6, 7 and 8-points made you hold three points in a row directly in front of your opponent's back checkers. Their 6s are now blocked: from the 24-point a 6 would land on your bar point.
It is the third-best opening roll and the only standard play for 6-1.
What to aim for next
- Your 8-point is down to two checkers but still safe.
- Build toward a full prime: the 5 and 4-points are next.
Not sure about the notation? Here is how to read moves like 13/7 8/7. Practise the opening against the computer: play a game and turn on hints to compare your moves.
Questions
What is the best opening move for 6-1 in backgammon?
13/7 8/7. Play 13/7 8/7 to make your bar point and start a blockade.
Can 6-1 be rolled as a reply instead of an opening?
Yes. As a reply the best play depends on how your opponent opened, but the opening play is usually a sound starting point.
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