MKUltras - Mini Sigma Ultem Editions

MKUltras - Mini Sigma Ultem Editions

The MKUltras are a hybrid design, combining elements of traditional Mala and Komboloi beads. The MKUltra name gives a nod to this lineage, as well as their expedience as tools to help us focus our minds and still our thoughts. They can be used in a variety of ways, ranging from quiet bead counting, through to raucous flipping.

The unique setup of the MKUltras allows them to be worn like mala beads, or carried discretely in the pocket. They adjust by means of a simple friction fit through the larger "Micro Boss" bead closure. Although the design is exceedingly simple, we're fairly confident you won't find anything quite like them around. This is a knotless system, and does not require any special lock bead. The cord is simply compressed when threaded through the Micro Boss bead, providing a reliable, secure fastener that is easy to adjust when needed.

In this way, the Ultras can be worn on the wrist, or loosened and slid up above the elbow to keep them out of the way when needed. Excess cordage can be knotted loosely around the Micro Boss bead when they are worn on the wrist, or left dangling. This modifiable arrangement allows them to be used very quietly, for simple bead counting used in breath work and meditation, to "raindrop" methods marked by the satisfying, rhythmic clacking of the beads, as well as much more physical methods of manipulation which resemble short game begleri play. While they aren't intended as a highly technical skill toy, there are still a solid range of moves you can link together, and lots of ways of working with them.

About the Ultem Editions

The mini sigma shape is a longtime favourite, and the lightweight beads in machined Ultem slide through the fingers beautifully.. and because there are so many individual beads in the strand, the whole set has a very fluid, flowing quality when you’re running them through the hands. The Ultem material keeps the overall weight exceptionally low. There’s enough mass there to carry some momentum for tricks, but in ordinary play you will scarcely notice the weight at all. These sets have a light, crisp clack that suits the character of the set perfectly.

Short Form

The short form consists of 31x 9mm beads, with a 11.8mm Micro Boss bead to close/ adjust the loop. These beads are significantly lighter than the metal versions, making them incredibly nimble for flipping in the manner of begleri. The cylindrical shape and the relatively larger number of beads also make them excellent for the raindrop style of play, where the light clack and smooth texture really shine.

Details:

• 31x 9mm Mini Sigma beads + 1x 11.8mm Titanium Micro Boss Bead
• Material: Amber Ultem
• Weight: ~17g per set
• Finish: Machine finish
• Strung on AO2's new custom 12-strand, high density, 2mm Kevlar cord
• All beads drilled with 3.5mm bore

Long Form

The Long Form version consists of 51x 9mm beads, with a 15mm Lil’ Boss bead to close/ adjust the loop. These long form sets are optimized for raindrops, wrist wear, and bead counting. The cylindrical shape of the Mini Sigmas and the relatively larger number of beads make them excellent for raindrops. The Amber Ultem gives the beads a very distinctive, warm look when worn on the wrist. The long forms, in general, are less nimble for flipping and tricks compared with the shorter length Ultras, but the lighter weight makes them more forgiving and enjoyable for extended open-handed play and low-key manipulation.

Details:

• 51 (+4)x 9mm Mini Sigma beads + 1x 15mm Titanium Lil‘ Boss Bead
• Material: Amber Ultem
• Weight: ~31g per set
• Finish: Machine finish
• Strung on AO2's new custom 12-strand, high density, 2mm Kevlar cord
• All beads drilled with 3.5mm bore
  

For a hands on look at the MKUltras, checkout our August 2026 Drop Preview!