Beyond Stebbins by Craig Petty

Effect

Beyond Stebbins is a magic trick that enhances the classic Si Stebbins stack with a gaffed deck, allowing magicians to perform 10 different routines. The effects vary, but they all rely on the mathematical principles of the Si Stebbins stack to create impossible-seeming predictions, mind-reading feats, and card revelations. For example, in one routine, spectators freely cut and deal cards, only to discover that their hands contain perfectly sequenced cards from ace to king in the same suit. Another effect makes four-of-a-kind vanish from the deck before reappearing in impossible locations.

Full details

Beyond Stebbins includes a custom gaffed deck of Bicycle cards and over two hours and 54 minutes of video instruction. The deck is fully examinable, meaning spectators can inspect it after the performance. Six of the ten routines work with any standard Si Stebbins stack deck, while four require the included gaffed cards. The routines cover a wide range of effects, including:

• The Perfect Ritual – A four-person card deal where all hands end up in perfect sequence.
• Word Up – A dictionary-based prediction using card values.
• Stebbins A.C.A.A.N. – Any card at any number effect.
• Vanishing Four of a Kind – A selected card and its three matching mates vanish and reappear impossibly.
• Psychic Deck – Three freely chosen cards reveal the location of a spectator’s selection.

The teaching is thorough, with live performances for each routine, though some reviewers noted minor issues with camera angles during explanations.

Who should consider the trick

Beyond Stebbins is ideal for:

• Magicians new to the Si Stebbins stack who want an easy-to-learn system.
• Performers looking for multiple strong routines from a single deck.
• Card workers who enjoy mathematical principles but prefer minimal sleight of hand.
• Professionals who need examinable gimmicks for walk-around or close-up magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The routines in Beyond Stebbins are designed to be accessible. Most require no advanced sleight of hand, relying instead on the stack’s mathematical properties and the gaffed deck. Beginners can start performing quickly, while experienced magicians will appreciate the clever refinements. The Si Stebbins stack itself is easier to learn than other memorized stacks like Mnemonica, making this a good entry point for stack-based magic.

What magicians say

Fiddlin' Johnny, a reviewer, praised the product for its value and versatility, stating: "You get 10 routines—that's a deal in that respect." He also highlighted the quality of the gaffed deck, calling it "very high quality" and noting that spectators "will not know that it's gimmicked." However, he mentioned minor issues with the tutorial’s camera work and the inclusion of an unengaged spectator during explanations.

Overall, Beyond Stebbins is well-regarded for its strong effects, ease of use, and professional-quality gimmicks, making it a worthwhile addition to any card magician’s repertoire.