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Big Pen Through Bill by Joshua Kaufman and baconmagic.shop

Created by: Joshua Kaufman, baconmagic.shop

The 'Big Pen Through Bill' is a classic close-up magic trick where a pen appears to penetrate through a borrowed bill, creating a visually stunning illusion. This version, 'The Gifted Pen' by Joshua Kaufman, allows performers to use borrowed pens and bills, making the effect highly examinable and impromptu. The trick comes with two gimmicks and four standard pens, enabling easy replacement and performance flexibility. Suitable for walk-around, street magic, and impromptu performances, this trick is designed to leave spectators amazed and questioning how it's done.

Key features

  • Allows for pen-through-bill effect with borrowed pens and bills

  • Includes two gimmicks and four standard pens

  • Highly examinable effect

  • Suitable for various performance settings

  • Easy to replace pens as they are standard and readily available

Pros

  • Impromptu nature allows for performances with borrowed items

  • Highly examinable by spectators

  • Includes extra pens for convenience

  • Versatile for different performance environments

Cons

  • Performers familiar with the classic handling may need a brief adjustment period

Effect

The Big Pen Through Bill trick creates the illusion of a standard pen visibly penetrating through a borrowed bill. The performer pushes the pen through the bill, showing it clearly on both sides, then removes it without any damage. The bill and pen can be handed out for immediate examination, making the effect highly convincing.

Full Details

The trick includes two gimmicks (one for blue pens, one for black pens) and four standard pens (two blue, two black). The pens are not gimmicked and can be replaced easily if lost. The gimmick allows the trick to be performed with borrowed pens and bills, making it suitable for impromptu situations. The package also includes a 15-minute instructional video featuring two different handlings by Joshua Kaufman and Xavier Spade.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform walk-around, street magic, or impromptu sets. It works well for those who want a visual, examinable effect that can be done with borrowed items. Performers familiar with the classic Big Pen Through Bill method will find this version adaptable with minor adjustments.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick is not difficult for those who know the classic Big Pen Through Bill handling. The gimmick operates similarly, though there may be a short adjustment period. Beginners can learn it quickly with practice, especially with the included video instructions.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy highlights the trick’s strengths: "Pen through bill impromptu and examinable—it doesn’t get much better than that." He praises the inclusion of extra pens and the ability to use borrowed items. He notes that while the gimmick differs slightly from the classic version, performers will adapt quickly.

He also mentions the angles and inspectability: "This is where the trick really shines. There’s never going to be that moment where the spectator says, 'Oh, it’s blank.'"

Overall, reviewers consider the trick a strong, practical effect for its price, especially given the inclusion of multiple pens and gimmicks.

What people are saying about Big Pen Through Bill

magicorthodoxy says...

The 'Gifted Pen' is a worthwhile purchase at $25, especially considering the inclusion of two gimmicks and four pens. [...] It's awesome so great for walk around great for uh impromptu magic great for street magic this is pretty darn cool.

Review videos