FanXin Barrel Cube

FanXin Barrel Cube (Redi Barrel)

FanXin Barrel Cube is a barrel-shaped Redi Cube, also known as a shape mod. The mechanism is the same as in a regular Redi Cube, so the layers turn around the corners. Only the shell has changed: once scrambled, the puzzle loses its regular shape because the edge pieces have different forms. On this shape-shifting puzzle the colors are arranged differently than on a classic cube, and the shape of the pieces is no longer an obvious hint.

How the mechanism works

The Redi Cube has 8 corners and 12 edges. The corners stay in place and you can only change their orientation. The edges swap positions, and the whole puzzle revolves around them. The Barrel version adds shape to the mix: while solving, you have to look not only at the colors but also at whether a piece fits the barrel shape. This makes it a bit harder than a regular Redi, but without a jump to the level of demanding puzzles.

How it turns

Buyers in reviews describe the turning as smooth and fairly quiet. People who have already solved a Redi Cube usually handle the Barrel intuitively, without learning new algorithms. Reviews also mention accidental turns, occasional lockups and corners popping out. So the Barrel Cube is not a cube for setting times. It is a puzzle for relaxed solving and for your collection. Every piece can easily be put back in.

Who is it for?

For people who know the Redi Cube or Dino Cube and want the same mechanism with the extra challenge that comes from the shape. It also works well as an affordable first shape mod in your collection. For a child it is more of a second or third puzzle, after mastering the basics. If you have never held a corner-turning cube, you can start with a regular Redi Cube.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: FanXin
• Type: shape-shifting puzzle (Redi Cube shape mod), corner-turning
• Pieces: 8 corners (orientation only), 12 interchangeable edges
• Size: approx. 60 mm
• Weight: approx. 81 g
• Color scheme: stickerless bright