Tavern Puzzles

Surf's up! Somewhat intimidating and hard to handle, but can be manipulated and controlled with the right technique.

Another New York original. Solve it, and you'll be one too! (2005)

Our twenty-first design, for the 21st century. For those playing with a full deck, it's a natural! (2000)

aptive Heart was created as wedding favor for our daughter's wedding. It works just like Old Shackles, but instead of a ring as the object piece, it has a small heart. It is more difficult than Old Shackles.

Two notes short an octave, this clef is bound to be treble. No musical ability is necessary.

Something that is extraordinary or outstanding of its kind. Object of the puzzle Doozie: Remove large ring.

If you enjoy sequential ring puzzles (like Patience Puzzle), you'll find Genuine Article an interesting variation. More difficult than Dirty Dog and Doozie.

There are two tragedies in life. One is not to get your heart’s desire. The other is to gain it.

Individual display stands will hold one puzzle. A puzzle with a display stand makes a perfect executive gift.

Holy Mackerel! This fish will tangle the line and steal the bait. It's no fluke if you flounder. (1995)

Original in private collection, Philadelphia, PA. Named after famous 19th century blacksmith, Patrick Lyon, c. 1840. (1983)
Level: Intermediate

The task most difficult for an apprentice blacksmith was to forge two pieces exactly alike.
Level: Very Difficult

Patience Puzzle is more a mathmatical puzzle than the other Tavern Puzzles. It has 43 steps, but only a few basic moves. The secret to solving it is discovering the correct sequence. Level: Very Difficult

SATAN'S STIRRUP turned in Episode 4 of the PBS series Mercy Street. Brewed in the cauldron of the blacksmith's mind. The first of our own designs; the original original. (1985)
Level: Difficult

A control imposed on one by oneself. Something everyone needs. Practice it to achieve success. (1996)
Level: Simple, Basic