Bonus Switch by Ben Williams

Created by: Ben Williams

5WITCH by Ben Williams is a comprehensive guide to five different card and billet switches, plus a bonus technique. The tutorial is 1.5 hours long, with the core five switches taught in the first 15 minutes. The switches range from quick, in-the-hands card switches to a stunning table-based billet switch. The project is designed for card magicians and mentalists looking to expand their switching techniques, with real-world applications and routines included.

Key features

  • Five main switches plus a bonus technique

  • Real-world applications and routines included

  • High praise for Ben Williams' teaching style and the material's practicality

  • Exclusive bonus trick available for direct purchases

Pros

  • Practical and well-structured material

  • Clear, efficient teaching style

  • Real-world applicability

  • Exclusive bonus trick for direct purchases

Cons

  • Some switches require extra preparation

  • Not all switches are suitable for impromptu work

Effect

The Bonus Switch is a versatile card and billet switching technique that allows magicians to secretly exchange one card or billet for another in a natural and deceptive manner. The effect appears as a simple, open-handed action where the magician casually handles the card or billet, yet the spectator never detects the switch. The result is a seamless transition that can be used in various routines, from card magic to mentalism.

Full Details

The Bonus Switch is part of Ben Williams' 5WITCH project, which teaches five primary switches (labeled A to D, plus Switch T) and includes an additional bonus technique. The switches vary in application, with some performed in the hands and others on a table. The bonus switch is particularly deceptive, disguised as the act of opening a card on top of a deck.

The tutorial is structured to teach the core techniques quickly, with the first 15 minutes covering the essential switches. The remaining content explores real-world applications, including routines like the Mystery Card Plot, Impossible Location, and billet-based mentalism effects.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Card magicians who want to enhance their switching techniques for routines like the Mystery Card Plot.
  • Mentalists who need clean billet switches for one-ahead methods or predictions.
  • Performers looking for practical, impromptu-ready techniques with minimal setup.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty varies by switch:

  • Switch A & B – Easy to learn, suitable for beginners.
  • Switch C – Requires timing and misdirection, intermediate level.
  • Switch D & T – More advanced, involving billet work and table-based handling.
  • Bonus Switch – Simple to execute but relies on natural handling.

Roo notes that while Switch T looks visually stunning, it requires extra preparation, making it less practical for impromptu performances.

What Magicians Say

Roo from Roo's Reviews praises the project, stating:

  • "Ben’s teaching is clear and efficient, making the material highly practical."
  • "Switch A is my favorite—I’ve adapted it for better timing control in my own performances."
  • "The bonus switch is a great addition, especially for those who buy directly from Ben."

He highlights the real-world applicability of the techniques, particularly for working magicians who need reliable switches without excessive setup. The tutorial’s straightforward presentation and focus on practical routines make it a strong recommendation for performers at various skill levels.

What people are saying about Bonus Switch

RoosReviews says...

Ben’s **index-building method** is highlighted as a **cheap, effective solution** for forcing and predictions. [...] This is a **must-have** for magicians who value **practical, well-structured material** from a respected professional.

Review videos