Cast Ring II is the second of the ring-shaped puzzles in Hanayama’s Huzzle series. It is made up of five interlocking metal bands that, when correctly arranged, form a compact ring. The challenge is to undo that shape and then rebuild the ring exactly as it was.

• BrandHanayama
• SeriesHuzzle Cast (HZ 5-06)
• DesignerJose Grant
• Pieces5 bands
• Size4.4 × 3.9 × 1.5 cm
• DifficultyLevel 5 of 6 (Huzzle scale)

Origins

Puzzle rings have been known since at least the 15th century. This version is based on a design by Jose Grant, a Connecticut craftsman specialising in this kind of ring, which Hanayama adapted slightly and released in cast metal in 2004. According to the maker, the five bands recall the Olympic rings.

Skill level

Hanayama places it at level 5, “Expert”, on its six-level scale. On top of the difficulty of the assembly itself, it is a small piece whose bands tend to spring apart as soon as you let go, so it is hard to keep the whole thing still while you work on it. A good fit for anyone with experience of the series who doesn’t mind spending several sessions on it.