How to Choose the Right Cribbage Pegs for Your Board
Cribbage is a game of strategy, luck, and tradition, and the pegs you use are just as important as the board itself. Whether you are replacing lost pegs, upgrading your set, or building a new board, choosing the right cribbage board pegs can enhance your playing experience. With options in wood, metal, various colors, and different sizes, the choices can feel overwhelming. This guide covers the key factors to consider so you can pick pegs that fit your board, match your style, and last for years.
Material: Wood or Metal?
The first major decision is the material of your pegs. Both wood and metal have their own advantages, and your choice often comes down to personal preference and the look of your board.
Wooden Cribbage Pegs
Wooden pegs offer a classic, warm feel that complements traditional cribbage boards. They are often made from solid wood and come in a variety of colors including red, blue, and other finishes. Some wooden pegs have a tapered body that fits standard boards, and they can be made from cherry, maple, or walnut to match a handmade board. Wood pegs are lightweight and gentle on the board, making them a favorite among traditionalists. Many woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts choose wooden pegs for custom boards because they can be stained or painted to match the wood grain.
Metal Cribbage Pegs
Metal pegs provide a more modern, durable option. They are carefully made for a perfect gaming experience and come in plated finishes such as gold, silver, copper, and black. Some sets even feature 24K certified gold plating. Metal pegs are heavier and slide smoothly into 1/8 inch holes, giving a satisfying click when moved. They are available in mixed color sets, often including 12, 14, or 32 pieces, making them ideal for multi-lane boards or as backups. Many players prefer metal pegs because they are less likely to break or wear down over time, and they add a touch of elegance to the game.
Size: Finding the Right Fit
The size of your pegs must match the holes in your cribbage board. Most standard cribbage boards have 1/8 inch diameter holes. Most commercially available pegs, both wood and metal, are designed to fit these standard holes. Some manufacturers also offer 1/4 inch pegs with a tapered body that still fits standard boards, providing a larger grip. Always check the hole size of your board before ordering pegs. If you are building a custom board, you can choose the peg size you prefer and drill holes accordingly. For boards with non-standard holes, you may need to source pegs specifically made for that size.
Color and Style Options
Cribbage pegs come in a wide range of colors and styles. Metal pegs are often plated in gold, silver, copper, or black. Some sets combine multiple colors in one package, such as three gold, three black, three copper, and three silver pegs. Wooden pegs are available in solid colors like red and blue, or can be left natural to match the board. Many players like to coordinate peg colors with the board's inlay or their personal taste. If you play with multiple players, different color sets help each player track their own pegs. Some retailers also offer velvet and satin drawstring bags to store your pegs, keeping them organized and safe from loss.
Quantity and Sets
Consider how many pegs you need. A standard two-player cribbage game uses six pegs (three per player). However, many players buy larger sets so they have extras in case of loss, or to accommodate multi-lane boards. Common set sizes include 12-piece sets (often sold with a drawstring pouch), 14-piece sets, and 32-piece mixed color sets. Some suppliers offer wholesale metal cribbage pegs made in the USA, perfect for woodworkers and board makers who need bulk quantities. If you are building boards to sell or give as gifts, buying in bulk is cost-effective and ensures you always have pegs on hand.
Accessories: Peg Bags and Storage
Keeping your pegs together is important, especially when traveling. Many cribbage peg sets come with a drawstring storage pouch made of velvet or satin. These pouches are available separately as well, often in various colors and sizes. A good pouch prevents pegs from rolling away and makes it easy to carry them with your board. Some players prefer to store pegs inside the board itself, but a dedicated bag is a reliable backup. Plain cribbage pegs are also sold separately, allowing you to replace lost pegs without buying a whole new set.
DIY Options: Making Your Own Pegs
For the crafty player, making your own cribbage pegs is a rewarding project. A popular DIY method uses stranded copper wire and solder. This approach allows you to create unique pegs that match your board exactly. The process is relatively simple and requires basic tools. You can also shape wooden dowels or use other materials. Homemade pegs add a personal touch and can be a fun weekend project. However, be sure to check the diameter of your board's holes before making pegs to ensure a proper fit.
Where to Buy Quality Cribbage Pegs
Cribbage pegs are widely available from specialty game stores, online retailers, and directly from board makers. You can find metal cribbage pegs for 1/8 inch holes in gold, black, copper, and silver at various supply shops. Wooden pegs are sold by craft suppliers like Woodpeckers Crafts, which offers free shipping on orders over $75. For those looking for a set with a pouch, a 12-piece metal set with four colors is available for around $12.98. If you need plain pegs in bulk, stores like Cribbage Supply offer Cambridge cribbage pegs for $7.00 regularly. For wholesale quantities, look for metal pegs made in the USA that are precision-crafted for durability. When ordering online, compare shipping policies; some retailers offer free shipping over $50 or $75. Also consider custom cribbage board makers who sell personalized pegs handmade in the USA from cherry, maple, and walnut, with 2-4 track options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pegs in a cribbage board?
Cribbage pegs are small pins that players move along the board's holes to keep score during the game. They are typically made from wood or metal and fit into standard 1/8 inch holes. Pegs come in various colors and finishes, and each player usually uses two or three pegs to track their score.
Why are there three pegs on a cribbage board?
In standard two-player cribbage, each player uses three pegs: two for scoring and one as a spare. The extra peg helps avoid confusion when a player reaches the end of the board and must "peg out" using the third peg. It also serves as a backup in case a peg is lost.
What size pegs for a cribbage board?
Most cribbage boards use pegs that fit 1/8 inch diameter holes. Some pegs have a tapered body that also fits standard boards but are slightly thicker at the top. Always measure your board's holes before buying pegs, as non-standard sizes may require specially made pegs.
What can I use for cribbage pegs?
If you are in a pinch, you can use small nails, toothpicks, or pieces of wire. A popular DIY option is to make pegs from stranded copper wire and solder. However, for the best feel and durability, purpose-made wood or metal cribbage pegs are recommended.
Choosing the right cribbage board pegs comes down to matching material, size, and style to your board and your personal taste. Whether you prefer the classic warmth of wood, the sleek durability of metal, or the satisfaction of making your own, there are pegs available to suit every player. Consider keeping a spare set in a drawstring pouch so you are always ready for your next game.