MF8 Helicopter Dodecahedron

MF8 Helicopter Dodecahedron

MF8 Helicopter Dodecahedron is a twelve-sided puzzle that takes the Helicopter Cube mechanism and transfers it onto a dodecahedron. Unlike the Megaminx, you don't turn whole faces here. Moves happen around axes that pass through the edges, which makes it an edge-turning puzzle. The first prototype was designed by Clayton Ertley, and MF8 released a mass-produced version in 2011. The black body comes unstickered. You apply the stickers yourself, and two sets are included.

How it differs from regular dodecahedra

A full turn only swaps pieces around, so the dodecahedron keeps its shape. The Helicopter Dodecahedron, however, also allows jumbling moves. This means you turn a layer only partway and then turn a neighbouring axis. This mixes the pieces in ways regular turns can't, and solving it calls for a completely different way of thinking than face-turning puzzles. It was also the first mass-produced "Helicopter" puzzle with visible centers. In classic designs they are hidden. Here the centers don't move, but they help you keep your bearings.

The pieces have sharp, barely rounded edges, so you may feel them on your fingers during fast turning. This is a puzzle for relaxed solving and collecting, not a cube for timed solves or high TPS. Some users report that the mechanism turns better over time, but that is an opinion, not a specification.

Applying the stickers

Since you get two sticker sets, you can choose your colour scheme or keep the second set as a spare. Before you start applying them, wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth to remove any lube residue left from assembly. This helps the stickers stay on more securely.

Who is it for?

For those who have already solved the Megaminx, the Helicopter Cube or other unusual puzzles and are looking for something more challenging for their collection. For a first puzzle or a younger child, a simpler model is a better choice. Here, just applying the stickers takes patience, and jumbling moves can be quite a surprise.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: MF8
• Shape: dodecahedron
• Mechanism: edge-turning, with jumbling moves possible
• Body colour: black
• Size: approx. 9 cm between opposite faces
• Weight: approx. 291 g (puzzle only)
• In the box: stickerless puzzle and two sticker sets to apply yourself