MF8 Son-Mum 4x4 Cube I

MF8 Son-Mum 4x4 Cube I

MF8 Son-Mum 4x4 Cube I is the first version of the four-layer puzzle in the Son-Mum series. The series started with the Son-Mum 3x3, and this model brings the same idea to a 4x4 cube. From the outside it looks like a regular 4x4, but the middle layers (slices) can be turned by 45°. When you do that, the cube temporarily loses its regular shape and you can make moves that are not possible on a standard 4x4. We offer the black version (Black) with stickers.

How it works

Each face has many more small pieces than a classic 4x4. Once scrambled, it looks intimidating, and some parts of the centers seem impossible to separate. In practice, the solution is fairly intuitive. First, you pair up the individual pieces using 45° slice turns and regular face turns. Once everything is paired, you are left with a regular 4x4 cube to solve.

According to reviews, this stage does not add any new parity of its own. Only the parities known from the 4x4 can appear. That is why you should already know how to solve a 4x4, including the parity cases.

Turning and adjustment

Buyers say the Son-Mum 4x4 Cube I turns well straight out of the box and does not need lube right away. Still, keep in mind that this is a puzzle with 45° moves, not a speedcubing cube. When making 45° turns, you need to align the layers precisely. Tension is adjusted with adjustment screws.

Who is it for?

For people who can already solve a 4x4 and want to try something different, and for collectors of MF8 puzzles. If you know the Son-Mum 3x3, you will immediately see what it is all about, but the 4x4 version has more pieces to pair up. This puzzle is not allowed in official WCA competitions. The series also includes further 4x4 versions (II and III), but these are separate puzzles. This one is the first of them.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: MF8
• Type: 4x4 puzzle with 45° middle-layer turns (Son-Mum series, version I)
• Size: 67 mm
• Weight: 173 g
• Adjustment: adjustment screws
• Color: Black (with stickers)
• Release year: 2019
• Allowed in WCA competitions: no