Newbie Sample Chip Impressions (1 Viewer)

[ChipMonster]

New to forum and trying to decide which chips to get. I’ve ordered several sample sets and don’t feel any closer to finding what I’m looking for. I also have a sample set of the CPC Atlantic A Molds on the way. I think I’m getting nervous that I’m not really going to be satisfied unless I get a super high end set or make a custom set and my taste is more than I want to pay at this stage (kinda want a slow descent into madness). Am I missing anything I should be considering for chips? My feedback is below for each to help identify preferences:

1) China Clay - Dunes and Pharaohs. I’m grouping these together and they are tied with the Tiki Kings as my least favorite. I don’t care for how the feel and I’ve come to realize that I don’t like that they are knockoffs. I love the Pharaohs made by Paulson and couldn’t stomach owning a subpar set.

2) Tiki Kings - The design just isn’t for me. Not a fan of the characters and do not like the edge spots

3) Nevada Jacks - I go back and forth between really liking these to feeling neutral. Part of me thinks that these would be really fun to own for home games given that they have dealer buttons, rebuy/bounty chips, plaques, matching cards… I like the color on these more than the Dia De Los Muertos because they’re a bit richer and pop a bit more. I worry that these are not as “grown up” as casino grade chips. I

4) Dia De Los Muertos - I kind of flip between these and Nevada Jacks as my top pick so far. I think this is a fun home set and like that each chip has a different design. Not as many accessories available as the Nevada Jacks and I don’t know why they didn’t assign a stock denomination to their pink chip because it’s one of my favorite designs. It also annoys me that one of their plaques is just a full image view of the $5,000 chip and that seems a bit lazy to me. Like the Nevada Jacks, I just wonder if these are not “grown up” enough for me and I’d get sick of looking at them after a year.

5) CPC Rounders on Scroll - these feel fantastic but I am not in love with the edge spots or the overall color scheme. I like a little variety to the edge spot pattern between chip denominations and the red and green chips are in a hue that just doesn’t catch my eye. For the price, I just don’t love them enough to pull the trigger. I ordered the Atlantic sample set because maybe I’d like the color scheme a bit more…

6) Jumers - Love the feel, not a huge fan of the overall design. I believe these are secondary chips and maybe if there was a different $1 I’d be fine but the white/yellow/brown doesn’t do anything for me.

I’ve been stalking the classifieds and have seen some beautiful chips but if anyone has a good starter cash and/or tournament set they’re willing to part with, let me know. For cash, looking at $5k in bank max and playing anything from .25/.50 up to 1/3. For tournament, I like a T100 base.

 

[marsellus]

I am not qualified to give you advice, but you look just like me a few weeks ago. I wasn't really satisfied with any solution at the low/medium price point. I browsed through the chip DB, the classified and the pr0n threads, and in the end I found what I like. I pulled the trigger and spent a considerable amount of money for what is "the" set for me, hopefully for life. If you had told me in March that I would have spent 2.5k (edit: actually 3k lol) on a set of chips I would have told you to f* off... But now here I am, more excited than ever to get the package in my hands

Not sure how much this is helpful, but I understand what you are saying.

 

[suchj0sh]

There is a different Jumers $1, though they seem to be in rougher shape. Apache has an eBay listing for them if you wanna check them out.

 

[HughDrackman]

The nice thing about any BRPro set is that they are all semi-customizable. Don’t like the NCV pink chip? You can make it your frac. They don’t have a stock bounty chip? You can turn any of them into bounties. Personally, I like a nicely designed ceramic. Others will tell you that compression clay is the only way to go.

One thing that most people agree on is that you should take your time, find a set that really resonates with you, and pull the trigger on it. Better to spend a chunk of cash on a set you’re going to love for a long time than to dump piles into multiple sets trying to find “the one.”

Good luck with your search!

 

[DZPoker]

"the" set

Hahahahaha… @marsellus said “the” set!

J/K………but not really

@ChipMonster - I found myself in a similar boat when I started so I’ll throw out a suggestion: maybe give cheaper versions of higher quality chips a look. For me in was Starbursts and more specifically…the cheaper colors of Starbursts and as dirty as I could find them! You’d be shocked at how much chips can clean up with a little elbow grease…but I’ve yet to find a way to force a cheaper chip to become leaded clay!!

 

[ChipMonster]

There is a different Jumers $1, though they seem to be in rougher shape. Apache has an eBay listing for them if you wanna check them out.

Thanks, I ordered the Jumers and China Clay samples through Apache. Nothing else they had really jumped out at me. Are there other sites besides Apache selling sets?

The nice thing about any BRPro set is that they are all semi-customizable. Don’t like the NCV pink chip? You can make it your frac. They don’t have a stock bounty chip? You can turn any of them into bounties. Personally, I like a nicely designed ceramic. Others will tell you that compression clay is the only way to go.

One thing that most people agree on is that you should take your time, find a set that really resonates with you, and pull the trigger on it. Better to spend a chunk of cash on a set you’re going to love for a long time than to dump piles into multiple sets trying to find “the one.”

Good luck with your search!

Yes, that may be an option to explore for customization of the ceramics. For clay sets, I’ve seen some sets that do resonate with me but in the $3k and up range and not sure I’m ready for that level! Haha like I said, I want to slowly descend into madness!

Hahahahaha… @marsellus said “the” set!

J/K………but not really

@ChipMonster - I found myself in a similar boat when I started so I’ll throw out a suggestion: maybe give cheaper versions of higher quality chips a look. For me in was Starbursts and more specifically…the cheaper colors of Starbursts and as dirty as I could find them! You’d be shocked at how much chips can clean up with a little elbow grease…but I’ve yet to find a way to force a cheaper chip to become leaded clay!!

Hahahahaha… @marsellus said “the” set!

J/K………but not really

@ChipMonster - I found myself in a similar boat when I started so I’ll throw out a suggestion: maybe give cheaper versions of higher quality chips a look. For me in was Starbursts and more specifically…the cheaper colors of Starbursts and as dirty as I could find them! You’d be shocked at how much chips can clean up with a little elbow grease…but I’ve yet to find a way to force a cheaper chip to become leaded clay!!

that’s a great tip! I think I’d like hot stamps for tournaments but not so much for cash games.

I am not qualified to give you advice, but you look just like me a few weeks ago. I wasn't really satisfied with any solution at the low/medium price point. I browsed through the chip DB, the classified and the pr0n threads, and in the end I found what I like. I pulled the trigger and spent a considerable amount of money for what is "the" set for me, hopefully for life. If you had told me in March that I would have spent 2.5k on a set of chips I would have told you to f* off... But now here I am, more excited than ever to get the package in my hands

Not sure how much this is helpful, but I understand what you are saying.

I completely get it and may need to do the same to satisfy me. What set did you end up getting?

 

[SteveEH]

I'm a big fan of custom CPCs. With a custom set, it's important to get shuffle stack samples of the molds you like (they all feel different), get real color samples (the chip designer colors vary by monitor/screen), hire a designer, get feedback from the community, and take your time.

Until then I'd probably pickup a cards mold group buy set I could sell in the future.

 

[marsellus]

I completely get it and may need to do the same to satisfy me. What set did you end up getting?

Jack Detroit.

200 x $1
200 x $5
100 x $25 secondary
80 x $100 prim
20 x $500 prim

 

[suchj0sh]

Thanks, I ordered the Jumers and China Clay samples through Apache. Nothing else they had really jumped out at me. Are there other sites besides Apache selling sets?

If you want Paulsons, my advice from a cost perspective (I’m also new here) is to watch the classified for RHC racks that appeal to you and put together a mixed set. I was able to put this together from the classifieds for around $650 or so all shipped to me. It’s a $5300 bank, and I just picked up some rougher solids off eBay for quarters for like $70 more.

 

[DZPoker]

I completely get it and may need to do the same to satisfy me. What set did you end up getting?

To get what I wanted at prices I could stomach…it was done rack by rack over 1.5yrs or so…but I eventually got what I was after

 

[ChipMonster]

To get what I wanted at prices I could stomach…it was done rack by rack over 1.5yrs or so…but I eventually got what I was after
View attachment 1152643

That is a very gorgeous set!! Love it

If you want Paulsons, my advice from a cost perspective (I’m also new here) is to watch the classified for RHC racks that appeal to you and put together a mixed set. I was able to put this together from the classifieds for around $650 or so all shipped to me. It’s a $5300 bank, and I just picked up some rougher solids off eBay for quarters for like $70 more.

I may end up going that route as well. Thanks

Jack Detroit.

200 x $1
200 x $5
100 x $25 secondary
80 x $100 prim
20 x $500 prim

Those are chips definitely worth pulling the trigger on!

 

[ChipMonster]

I'm a big fan of custom CPCs. With a custom set, it's important to get shuffle stack samples of the molds you like (they all feel different), get real color samples (the chip designer colors vary by monitor/screen), hire a designer, get feedback from the community, and take your time.

Until then I'd probably pickup a cards mold group buy set I could sell in the future.

I love the thought of going custom and have seen elsewhere that the different molds feel and sound different so appreciate that tip. How easy is CPC to work with on a custom set and are there designers on this site people recommend? Not sure if I’m ready to go down that rabbit hole but may likely end up there…

 

[Machine]

ChipMonster, first, welcome - we typically suggest you wait and grow into a custom CPC set, that said, once bitten, GL

There are some great sets to draw inspiration from, this was the first set to wow me, it really made me feel like I would be accepted for my tastes!

I dislike red chips and the standard LV colors.

I love @wonderpuddle 's set because of the movie reference, and the great contrast, and brightness, the white border with the black inlay, so good

Here is my line up

 

[lane_robert_s]

Enjoy the madness.

 

[KHarp1]

Lot of good feedback given so far, mainly take your time and get samples. As had been mentioned, MOST from BR Pro can be customized, you can change denom amounts and colors. Don't like the blue .25? Make the blue the $1. I just ordered 100 orange $13 Dia chips to use during Halloween.

I agree with you about the Jumers, I'll say this as politely as I can, but, they are one of the most unattractive chips out there, but, that's just my taste. I ended up building a set of HSI's, but I hated the primary $1 and frac, so, I went with the 1a $1, primary $5 and a completely different casinos $2 chip for the frac. In the past 6 months I've purchased and sold more chips than I ever dreamed I could own. This likely won't be your last chip set purchase. There aren't too many rules.

I'm at the point where I'm looking for what some call a "rat rod" set, that is, I'll take a beautiful $1 chip from one casino, then find a different $5 that strikes me...etc, then use them as one set. There really are too many rules.

I noticed you didn't have samples of any plastics from Matsui, Abiatti, Gemaco, BG. The Tropicana Evansville from Gemaco are a decent feeling "plastic" chip that's very affordable. Matsui are a bit more, Abiatti even more. They all offer some beautiful chips with different feels. I have a slew of Matsui Emerald Bay chips for sale in the classifieds currently, and, someone has a really nice set of Abiatti Park Place there as well.

CPC's are a different level of commitment to chip sets, unless you buy a stock design (at around $2-$2.50 a chip) you'll have to create your own artwork which is an added cost as well as time consuming. Your cost per chip can easily reach $5,$6,$7 and up.

Since you likely end up with more than one set, my recommendation is to buy something reasonably priced that suits your needs for now, enjoy them while you're continuing to figure out what you "think" your end chip will be. The classifieds are full of sets folks have moved on from. Some hold value better than others, you may take a bit of a loss, but, it's all part of this journey. You can minimize the loss by buying smart.

I probably have some samples I can forward that may help in your decision process. Feel free to message to see if I have anything you might want to get your hands on.

Good luck

 

[ChipMonster]

Lot of good feedback given so far, mainly take your time and get samples. As had been mentioned, MOST from BR Pro can be customized, you can change denom amounts and colors. Don't like the blue .25? Make the blue the $1. I just ordered 100 orange $13 Dia chips to use during Halloween.

I agree with you about the Jumers, I'll say this as politely as I can, but, they are one of the most unattractive chips out there, but, that's just my taste. I ended up building a set of HSI's, but I hated the primary $1 and frac, so, I went with the 1a $1, primary $5 and a completely different casinos $2 chip for the frac. In the past 6 months I've purchased and sold more chips than I ever dreamed I could own. This likely won't be your last chip set purchase. There aren't too many rules.

I'm at the point where I'm looking for what some call a "rat rod" set, that is, I'll take a beautiful $1 chip from one casino, then find a different $5 that strikes me...etc, then use them as one set. There really are too many rules.

I noticed you didn't have samples of any plastics from Matsui, Abiatti, Gemaco, BG. The Tropicana Evansville from Gemaco are a decent feeling "plastic" chip that's very affordable. Matsui are a bit more, Abiatti even more. They all offer some beautiful chips with different feels. I have a slew of Matsui Emerald Bay chips for sale in the classifieds currently, and, someone has a really nice set of Abiatti Park Place there as well.

CPC's are a different level of commitment to chip sets, unless you buy a stock design (at around $2-$2.50 a chip) you'll have to create your own artwork which is an added cost as well as time consuming. Your cost per chip can easily reach $5,$6,$7 and up.

Since you likely end up with more than one set, my recommendation is to buy something reasonably priced that suits your needs for now, enjoy them while you're continuing to figure out what you "think" your end chip will be. The classifieds are full of sets folks have moved on from. Some hold value better than others, you may take a bit of a loss, but, it's all part of this journey. You can minimize the loss by buying smart.

I probably have some samples I can forward that may help in your decision process. Feel free to message to see if I have anything you might want to get your hands on.

Good luck

Lots of great information here and from others. I appreciate this community already! No, I haven’t yet looked into Matsui or the others but may have to check them out. What samples do you have available that you think I should see?

 

[allforcharity]

There are some high end samples available to members for free evaluation - just sign up.

 

[Tallguy]

I definitely wouldn't jump into a custom set right away. You might be surprised how much your taste changes after a bit of time. One thing to consider is Chip Room sales. Jim gets ahold of Casino chips from rooms that have closed and sells them at a considerably cheaper prices than you can find from individual sellers. He usually gets new chips every few months. You can find TheChipRoom under site vendors. When he posts an On The Road Again post, you know the sale will be coming shortly after. Good luck!

 

[ChipMonster]

I definitely wouldn't jump into a custom set right away. You might be surprised how much your taste changes after a bit of time. One thing to consider is Chip Room sales. Jim gets ahold of Casino chips from rooms that have closed and sells them at a considerably cheaper prices than you can find from individual sellers. He usually gets new chips every few months. You can find TheChipRoom under site vendors. When he posts an On The Road Again post, you know the sale will be coming shortly after. Good luck!

Good to know, thanks! I think what I’m learning is that I just need to be a bit patient for the time being. I still don’t know what denomination breakdown I want to get so I guess that’s a first step…

 

[BPTDirector]

When you decide to go custom, go slow, so that like me, you can look back 15 years later and say “ yup, I did that” and be proud. ASM / CPC chips wear like iron in a home game. Take your time and enjoy the ride.

 

[Tallguy]

Good to know, thanks! I think what I’m learning is that I just need to be a bit patient for the time being. I still don’t know what denomination breakdown I want to get so I guess that’s a first step…

You looking to play cash, tourneys or both?

 

[ChipMonster]

You looking to play cash, tourneys or both?

Both

 

[Mondaynight]

Yeah I got sucked in about a month ago. Similar story. After buying samples of almost everything, realized my taste was not a match for my budget. I bought a custom cards mold set via @justincarothers that’s on the way. I was hoping that would tide me over but nope… now I just troll the classifieds and when I’m out drinking I’ll tell myself. I could buy one more drink… or 10 more poker chips instead. Lol. Maybe I’ll just grab a cocktail at home. What sucks is this community is way too helpful, way too self-aware, and way too enabling for me to quit it. I’m coming around to the idea that this just might be a hobby that found me, even when I wasn’t looking for one.

Side note: I’m also trying to build a mixed set of Paulsons “slowly”. You know… while I wait for my Tina’s.

 

[RamRanch18]

Solid single-table tournament set ready to go right here (not my listing) for under $200

https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/price-drop-grand-casino-cm-tourney-set.105634/#post-2199395

Also worth noting - with some patience you may be able to pick up a full set of solid (no edgespots) hot-stamped RHCs for a great price. I just got a 500pc set for $560. They were split off from a larger lot sold by @TheChipRoom and are practically mint.

 

[DZPoker]

now I just troll the classifieds and when I’m out drinking I’ll tell myself. I could buy one more drink… or 10 more poker chips instead.

may I introduce you to the official Whiskey thread

https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/official-pcf-whisk-e-y-thread.3763/page-715

Lots of ways to lose your money here!!!