Mini Hydras - MokuTi
Mini Hydra Begleri - MokuTi Edition
Aroundsquare's Hydra Begleri are a fun yet highly capable modern adaptation of the traditional Greek multi-bead begleri. While the full Hydra begleri line includes different sizes, colours, and materials, and allows for mixing and matching of beads, the full titanium Mini Hydras have been praised by elite players as one of the best begleri sets available. There is something special about the size, shape, weight, and multi-bead configuration that makes the ti Mini Hydras a favourite that players keep coming back to.
The Mini Hydras are a slightly down-sized version of the original Hydra beads, 14mm in diameter, and 7mm tall each. They are drilled to accommodate 550 paracord, with an exposed knot.
The Hydras are extremely playable, and despite their cylindrical shape, are surprisingly nimble. They are less solid and therefore slightly quieter than heavier single-bead designs, and the multiple beads add a nice "fiddle factor" to each set. The rounding of all edges on the beads adds to the comfort and overall feel.
The MokuTi Edition
The MokuTi Edition is a four-bead setup, weighing in at 20g all in with cord, and about 4.4g per bead. The beads are made from two colour MokuTi, which is forged by folding together two different grades of titanium, then firing them at high temperature to unleash the colours. The finish holds up well to regular use and as a titanium product, the material can withstand heavy abuse.
The elegant Mokuti material is forged from folded layers of different titanium grades, then precision machined, polished, and torched to create eye-popping colour patterns, reminiscent of wood grain. Each piece is quite unique, with its own grain patterns and slight colour differences. All pieces range from dark purple to blue to grey, and include lighter orange/ gold striping. The beads shown in the photos are representative of the range (the remaining pieces are vacuum sealed to preserve the initial finish).
As a titanium product, MokuTi is highly durable. The polished finish is reasonably durable in normal use, but will eventually show scratches and may fade through use. However, one of the beautiful aspects of this material is that it can be re-finished innumerable times, giving slightly different colours and contrasts each time depending on how it is torched.
This elegant set of begleri may not be for everyone due to its price point, but for those who know what they're getting into, you're bound to cherish them.
- Set includes four MokuTi beads (4.4g each)
- Please note that items included in the package (strings, stickers, patches, bags etc.) vary in colour and quantity depending on availability.
New to begleri? Check out Aroundsquare's AO2 Crew demonstrating what this toy's all about, via the talented guys at Kuma Films (below). You may also want to visit our general information page on begleri, or do a deep dive on the history, configurations, or manipulation of this remarkable little toy.