TAVERN PUZZLE COLLECTION

Dennis and Donna Sucilsky
East Setauket, New York

Tavern Puzzles are reproductions of a type of puzzle traditionally forged by blacksmiths to amuse their friends at country taverns and inns. Keeping with tradition, Dennis Sucilsky, a museum-trained, traditional blacksmith from Long Island, has reproduced some of these antique designs as well as created his own original designs. All the puzzles are handcrafted and individually assembled. Each puzzle is mechanical in nature; removal of the object piece does not rely on force or trickery. The purpose of each puzzle is to provide a challenge, entertainment, and fun. New styles are added on a regular basis; some of these are original designs, others are new versions of classics.

BY DIFFICULTY:
The Tavern Puzzle Collection is divided into 8 difficulty groups. Group 1 is the simplest. The groups become progressively more difficult, ending with the most complex, Group 8. All puzzles are made from 6mm steel; some include wooden beads. 

Group 1: Reproductions of antique designs, with only a few steps. Very social and fun in groups.

Group 2: Original designs, basic, with only a few steps. Quickly learned, with just the right amount of challenge.

Group 3: More complex but straightforward, with multi-step solutions. Easy to teach and share.

Group 4: This group is moderately difficult. Also multi-step, but the moves are more interactive. Fun to demonstrate if you know how.

Group 5: This group is difficult. Multi-step sequences with close tolerances. More perseverance than luck is needed.

Group 6: This group is very difficult, with a different solving technique than the other groups. Be wary of false steps in the layered solutions. For the true collector.

Group 7: This group is complex. Requires a lot of concentration to master the large number of moves, and to handle the flexible chain.

Group 8: This group is the most complex; Patience Puzzle is a reproduction of the oldest known puzzle in the world.