The QiYi Kong Ming Lock Twenty-four Locks is one of the most striking variants of the Kong Ming Lock series. The name refers to the number of joints that must be taken into account for the assembly to hold, which gives an idea of the level of mechanical detail with which it is designed. It is a good example of the kind of puzzle that feels complex before you even try to solve it.

The approach follows the classic logic of the series: separate the pieces in the order the design allows and then retrace the reverse path to return to the original state. There are no turns or hidden mechanisms, so everything needed to solve it is in plain sight, though the relationship between pieces forces you to pay much more attention than in a simple burr puzzle. It is a challenge that rewards calm observation.

The finish is characteristic of QiYi for this line, with a clean look and pieces moulded with precision. The fit between components is firm, without the pieces moving more than necessary once assembled, something appreciated when you carry it from one place to another or leave it on a shelf as a collection object.

It fits well for those who have already tinkered with some mechanical puzzle and want to take a step further, as well as for gifting someone curious about traditional Chinese puzzles. It is a comfortable piece to handle, with an entertaining challenge and no tricks beyond simple observation. Its level sits above the initiation models of the series itself.

When disassembling it for the first time, it is worth noting which pieces are holding others and in what order you can start moving each one. Many enthusiasts mentally note that sequence or even line up the pieces as they come out, which makes subsequent assembly much easier. After two or three solves, the mechanics become clear.

• QiYi Kong Ming Lock series
• Twenty-four Locks model with multiple joints
• Disassembly and reassembly challenge
• Pieces with firm fit and no tolerances
• Traditional Chinese lock-type puzzle

• Kong Ming Lock mechanical puzzle
• Twenty-four Locks model by QiYi
• Traditional Chinese lock type
• Disassembly and reassembly without turns
• Clean finish and firm fit