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Charlie Cut by Geraint Clarke

Created by: Geraint Clarke

In *Single-Handed* by Geraint Clarke, a spectator freely chooses and signs a card. The magician claims to find it using only one hand, which is placed behind their back. After some misdirection, the magician reveals the wrong card, only to dramatically produce the signed card from the hidden hand. This is a close-up card magic trick that combines sleight of hand (notably the Charlie cut) with clever psychology. The deck is examinable, and the reset is instant, making it highly practical for performances. Buyers should note that the trick requires a 180-degree viewing angle and a 'fake call' moment for the method to work seamlessly.

Key features

  • Relies on a Charlie cut performed one-handed

  • Deck is examinable and resets instantly

  • Suitable for strolling, parlour, corporate, and stage magic

  • Includes 90 minutes of detailed instruction

  • Available as a download or with a gimmick deck

Pros

  • Clever and deceptive method

  • Highly practical with an examinable deck

  • Versatile for various performance settings

  • Quality instruction with multiple variations taught

Cons

  • Requires a 180-degree viewing angle

  • Needs a 'fake call' moment, which some may find awkward

Effect

The Charlie Cut is a sleight used in card magic where the magician cleanly cuts the deck with one hand. In Single-Handed by Geraint Clarke, this move is essential for locating a freely chosen and signed card. The magician places one hand behind their back, claims to find the card with just that hand, and after a brief misdirection, reveals the signed card from behind their back. The effect is direct, visual, and leaves the audience surprised.

Full Details

The Charlie Cut is a one-handed cut that allows the magician to control a card while maintaining the illusion of fairness. In Single-Handed, the spectator shuffles the deck, and the magician performs the cut to isolate the chosen card. The method relies on timing and misdirection, making it deceptive even under scrutiny.

The trick is available in two versions: a digital download (requiring a common gimmick deck) or a bundle with a pre-made gimmick deck. The download includes 90 minutes of instruction, covering multiple variations of the routine. The deck remains examinable, and the reset is instant, making it practical for repeated performances.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform:

  • Strolling or close-up magic
  • Parlor or corporate events
  • Stage card routines

It suits those comfortable with one-handed card control and willing to practice the Charlie Cut. Beginners may need time to master the sleight, but the method itself is straightforward once the cut is learned.

Difficulty

The Charlie Cut requires practice to perform smoothly, especially with one hand. Sebastian Tocamagic notes that while the rest of the routine is simple, the cut is crucial. Magicians unfamiliar with the move should expect a learning curve. However, once mastered, the effect is easy to execute in performance.

What Magicians Say

Sebastian Tocamagic praises Single-Handed for its clever method and practicality. He highlights the examinable deck and instant reset as major strengths. He rates it 9/10, recommending it for card magicians who want a strong, self-contained effect.

The only noted drawback is the 180-degree angle restriction, meaning spectators must stay in front of the performer. Additionally, the routine includes a "fake call" moment, which some magicians may prefer to avoid, though Sebastian argues it fits naturally into the presentation.

Overall, the Charlie Cut and Single-Handed combination is a well-regarded choice for magicians looking for a deceptive, one-handed card control effect.

What people are saying about Charlie Cut

Sebastian Tocamagic says...

The effect is very practical because this is not one of those gimmick decks that can only do one thing. [...] The method is clever, and the deck is examinable—it's a very fun routine with a strong climax.

Review videos