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Automatic Jog Control by Daryl and Paul Harris

Created by: Daryl, Paul Harris

The 'Automatic Jog Control' is a card magic trick that involves a spectator freely selecting a card from a deck, which is then controlled to the top through a method taught by Daryl from Paul Harris. The deck is placed inside a standard, legal-size envelope, sealed, and a portion is torn off. Using a pencil, the selected card mysteriously rises from the envelope, appearing to emerge from the middle. This trick is versatile for both street magic and parlor settings, using readily available props: a deck of cards, envelope, and pencil. It's a clean performance with most components inspectable by the audience, except for the pencil which is returned to the magician's pocket.

Key features

  • Uses readily available and inexpensive props

  • Versatile for both street and parlor magic

  • Clean performance with most components inspectable

  • Teaches the 'Automatic Jog Control' method

  • Includes tips for handling a 'Jinx Peak' and improving finger breaks

Pros

  • Clean and inspectable by the audience

  • Uses normal, everyday props

  • Versatile for different performance settings

  • Durable for repeated performances

  • Affordable at $8

Cons

  • Requires some card manipulation skills

  • May not suit magicians who prefer to preserve their decks

  • Involves a minor manipulation of one prop

Effect

The Automatic Jog Control is a card control technique that allows a magician to secretly position a selected card to the top of the deck without detection. When used in the context of Daryl's Rising Card in Envelope trick, the spectator sees a freely chosen card returned to the deck, which is then placed inside an ordinary envelope. After tearing off the top of the envelope, the magician inserts a pencil horizontally, and the selected card mysteriously rises out from the middle of the deck. The effect is clean, with no suspicious moves, and the deck and envelope can be handed out for inspection.

Full Details

The trick requires a standard deck of cards, a legal-size envelope, and a sharpened pencil. The method relies on controlling the selected card to the top of the deck, which Daryl teaches using Paul Harris's Automatic Jog Control. However, any reliable card control can be substituted. The envelope conceals the method, making the angles favorable. The trick can also be adapted for multiple spectators, where several cards rise before the correct one is revealed.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who frequently perform with cards and don’t mind minor deck manipulation. It suits both walk-around and parlor settings due to its simple, everyday props. Those who prefer preserving their decks in pristine condition may hesitate, as the method involves slight deck handling that could affect card longevity.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty depends on the performer’s card control skills. The Automatic Jog Control is manageable for intermediate card workers, but beginners may need practice to execute it smoothly. The rest of the trick is straightforward, with no complex sleights beyond the initial control.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy praises the trick for its cleanliness and practicality, calling it "clean, affordable, and easy to perform." He notes that it works well for both street and parlor magic, with no fragile props. However, he personally avoids it due to his preference for keeping decks in perfect condition, stating, "I don’t do tricks that require me to wreck the deck." He concludes that the $8 price is reasonable for the quality of instruction.

The Automatic Jog Control and Rising Card in Envelope combination offers a strong, versatile effect for magicians comfortable with basic card controls and minor deck handling.

What people are saying about Automatic Jog Control

magicorthodoxy says...

The trick is versatile, suitable for both walk-around street magic and parlor settings. [...] I won't be adding it to my repertoire due to my preference for preserving my decks and avoiding tricks that require significant manipulation or crimping of the cards.

Review videos