Herc Core Begleri The Aroundsquare Herc Cores are part of our Hardcore Gut System. These beads are designed to fit inside any “Hardcore Compatible” set, such as the Modern Standards, the Everyman (hardcore models), and Hardcore Titans. Unlike the Micro Standards, however, the Hercs do not fit entirely inside of the hardcore beads. The flanged portion extends out, roughly to the edge of the outer beads, and the bottom portion of the bead extends down further. This results in a bottom-heavy weight distribution which helps carry momentum even when the overall set weight is quite low. The design of the bottom portion of the beads may look a little bit strange, but it is intentional, giving good grip and control on the bottom portion of the bead, without extending the bead diameter too far. This maximizes the nimbleness of the bead in the fingers, which is advantageous for gap tricks and bead rolls. However, while the Hercs can fit inside an outer shell, the they don't need to. In fact, the Hercs were the first of our Hardcore beads which were designed to play on their own without an outer shell. The twist with the Hercs is the addition of optional rings, which allow for customization of weight and appearance, reducing "clack" during play, and cushioning the impact of the beads on the knuckles (or the floor, as the case may be). The the silicone bands are wide and grippy in texture, thanks to the embossed "aroundsquare" word mark around the exterior. Unlike full silicone beads, the lack of a grippy texture at the top of the bead means that there is very little adjustment required in play style. You gain the advantages of excellent bead control on the sides of the beads, without being slowed down by grip at the top of the bead. NOTE: Each set of Herc cores is packaged with four randomly selected silicone bands. Unfortunately special requests can’t be accommodated at this time. Silicone Rings (accessory) Aroundsquare's silicone rings are designed to be used with our small, flanged micro beads. Besides the Herc Cores, they work well with Newton Cores and End Caps as well. The Silicone Bands add colour options to these beads, as well as providing a little bit of extra grip and helping to dampen the clacking sound of the beads during play. Unlike a full silicone bead, the bands provide grip where you want it (on the sides) while still keeping the top of the bead low friction so that it doesn't slow the beads down during play. The silicone bands are approximately 5mm in width and 2mm in thickness, making them roughly the same size as the original metal Herc Rings. The silicone rings come in a 16 pack (2pcs x 8 colours). Purchases of Herc Cores will include 4 randomly selected bands. Details: Herc Core Begleri with 4 random Silicone Bands: Titanium: ~13g / set Copper ~24g / set Brass ~23g / set Stainless Steel ~22g / set Silicone Bands 16/pack - 2 of each Colour: ~6.7g Please note that items included in the package (strings, stickers, patches, bags etc.) vary in colour and quantity depending on availability, and may not be exactly as shown in the photos. Our March 2025 Launch Preview video below dives deep on these guys, and provides some ideas for the types of usage and manipulations possible with them. 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.
