What is the ACL(American Cornhole League)? What do the different ACL Stamps mean? What types of events use each ACL Stamp? Do I need an ACL Stamped cornhole set?

There have been a ton of questions regarding board stamping since the ACL added the practice earlier this year and I'm happy to answer all of these questions for you today.

What is the ACL(American Cornhole League)?

Firstly the American Cornhole League is the governing body for professional, competitive, and recreational Cornhole. Professional Cornhole Players can be seen playing on ESPN and these ACL events have recently been featured in the New York Times and a survey has found Cornhole to be the most played sport in America.

Considering the wide reach of the sport and potential growth of the competitive and professional fields there is a need to set equipment standards. Equipment standards are a necessity in any professional sport.

Why regulate boards?

As any little league parent or MLB fan knows the equipment used in baseball games varies by level, age, and affiliation but these standards are a way to make sure that all athletes have the same chance of winning due to there being no equipment advantages and thus they must rely on skill.

The same concept is being applied to Cornhole. For years Cornhole bags used in competitive events have carried an ACL Stamp reflecting the year produced. This Stamp ensures that the bag has been reviewed by the ACL and meets the size, weight, and construction standards set. Even with these standards Bags do and can very greatly from each other so there is ample room for personal preference among athletes.

As an professional Cornhole bag and board manufacturer this means that we strive to create the best professional Cornhole products we can make while still meeting the set standards.

Now for the reason you're all here: What do the ACL Board Stamps Mean?

First off the ACL REC Stamp carries no individual standards BUT all Titan ACL REC Stamp Boards meet all of the ACL COMP Board standards except:

• They do not feature bracing on the back legs.
• All Weather Boards are made of high quality dense PVC material instead of the cabinet grade Titanply our other models use.

For these reasons they are ACL REC Stamped.

All ACL COMP, ACL PRO, and ACL ELITE Stamped Cornhole Boards meet these minimum standards:

• The playing deck measures 24x48 inches.
• Decks are constructed out of at least 5/8th inch dense plywood (All of our boards exceed this and are constructed out of 3/4th Titanply).
• When setup have a playing deck angle of 11 degrees.
• Have a 6 inch hole whose edge is 6 inches from the top of the deck.
• Have a smooth top coat finish applied to the playing deck. (All WGC and Titan boards have the Board Armor UV Clear Coat finish)
• Securely attached rails without any flex.

Now there are some legal tolerances allowed but the range decrease with each Stamp level (COMP > ELITE)

The main differences between each are in the bracing and sturdiness of the board frames.

ACL ELITE requires:

• The minimum requirements listed above.
• Additional bracing or construction that increases stability and sturdiness.
• Minimal bounce and consistent play across the entire playing surface.

This focus on on the construction is what sets these boards apart from the lower Stamps.

ACL ELITE Stamped XFactors feature a patent pending X frame bracing beneath the playing deck and although it is often imitated it is never beaten and this is why we strongly believe they are the peak of consistent and stable Cornhole Boards.

Are you trying to go pro or play competitively?

If you plan on playing in any ACL tournaments then owning an ACL COMP or ACL ELITE Stamped Cornhole Set means that you can practice on the same style/quality boards you will be playing on when competing. Practice how you play and whatnot. This can give you an edge over your opponent when the time comes and you don't have to adjust to playing on new boards.

Do you enjoy buying high quality products that with the proper care can last a lifetime?

Consider buying an ACL COMP or ACL ELITE Stamped set as well. The superior bracing will be noticeable and your backyard buddies will be jealous that their boards don't play or look as good as yours do.

Are you dipping your toe into Cornhole or just want a quality set to play with friends and family?

Buying a REC Stamp Cornhole Set may be the choice for you. They're budget friendly and despite not meeting ACL COMP Standards they feature the qualities that really matter. They're made of high quality cabinet grade ply, are constructed with a solid frame, and have the smooth Titan Armor Top Coat.

In summary, the ACL Stamps are more than just labels.

They represent a commitment to quality and fairness in Cornhole. Whether you’re a competitive player looking to up your game with ACL COMP or ACL ELITE Stamped boards, or a casual player wanting to enjoy the sport with family and friends using an ACL REC Stamped set, there’s something for everyone.

Whatever you choose, get ready to enjoy the camaraderie, competition, and countless hours of fun that Cornhole brings. Now, grab your boards, challenge your friends, and let the games begin!