Staunton Chess Set Pieces

One of the potential problems with chess games is that pieces can be very different from set to set but Staunton chess set pieces solves that problem. This requires players to relearn the roles of each piece. Staunton chess pieces solve this problem.

In the mid-nineteenth century a new design for chess pieces was developed and named after a chess master named Howard Staunton due to his endorsement of the new design. Since that time the Staunton chess piece has become the standard when it comes to actual play and the style in which people are probably most familiar.

Staunton style is also often referred to as the Staunton pattern. This includes the king with a cross, the castle as a rook, and a horse head as the knight.

The World Chess Federation (WCF) has specific equipment standards for tournament chess sets. One of these rules requires that the style of pieces need to be such that one is clearly distinguishable from another.

Specifically, the top of the queen should be clearly distinguishable from that of the king. Another being that the top of the bishop may bear a notch of color that distinguishes it from the pawn. These requirements make Staunton chess sets a nice fit and is often the recommended style.

If you're looking for a set that can be used for tournament play be aware that there are other requirements. Chess boards must be rigid. In the case of world championships wooden chessboards should be used according to the WCF rules.

A regulation chess board should use the appropriate light and dark colored squares. Additionally, boards are suppose to have a dull or neutral finish but cannot be shiny. The size of the square should be twice that of the base of the pawn and it recommended that the side of a square should be 5-6.5 cm.

Chess pieces should be dark and light accordingly but should not be shiny. Natural wood color can also be used for pieces. The weight of the pieces should comfortable and suitable for moving.

The king’s height should be about 9.5 cm. The base of the king should be 40—50% of the height. Other pieces are in proportion with the king and well balanced. Pieces should be made of wood, plastic, or an imitation of these materials.

Since many Staunton style sets are used for tournament play many will meet tournament requirements. If you are looking for a that may be just have a more traditional look then Staunton style sets are a good fit also.