Sleightful logoSleightful

Combo Zero Push-Through Shuffle by Chris Kenner

Created by: Chris Kenner

The Combo Zero Push-Through Shuffle is a sophisticated card control technique that allows magicians to maintain or manipulate the order of a deck seamlessly during a shuffle. This close-up card magic trick is designed to look like a standard shuffle, but in reality, it enables the performer to control specific cards or sections of the deck with precision. The technique is ideal for magicians looking to elevate their card magic with a method that appears entirely natural and undetectable. Buyers should note that mastering this shuffle requires practice, as it involves subtle hand movements and timing to perfect.

Key features

  • Advanced card control technique

  • Appears as a natural shuffle to spectators

  • Requires practice to master subtlety

  • Taught with clarity and humor in the Chris Kenner Masterclass

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and natural-looking

  • Versatile for various card routines

  • Taught by a renowned magician (Chris Kenner)

  • Commercial-ready material

Cons

  • Requires significant practice to perfect

  • May be challenging for beginners

Effect

The Combo Zero Push-Through Shuffle is a deceptive card shuffle that appears completely fair to spectators. The magician performs a series of cuts and shuffles, making it seem like the deck is thoroughly mixed. Despite this, the magician retains complete control over the order of the cards, allowing for impossible-seeming revelations or predictions.

Full details

This shuffle combines elements of the push-through shuffle with additional subtleties to enhance its deceptive qualities. It is designed to look like a standard overhand shuffle, making it ideal for magicians who want to maintain control of the deck without raising suspicion. The technique is smooth and can be performed at a natural pace, fitting seamlessly into routines.

Who should consider the trick

The Combo Zero Push-Through Shuffle is best suited for intermediate to advanced card magicians who want a reliable, deceptive shuffle for their routines. It is particularly useful for those who perform card controls, false shuffles, or stacked deck effects. If you frequently use shuffles in your performances and want one that looks completely fair while maintaining control, this is a strong option.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The shuffle requires practice to perform smoothly, but it is not overly complex. Magicians with experience in card handling will find it manageable with dedicated rehearsal. The key is making the shuffle appear natural, so timing and rhythm are important. Steve Faulkner notes that Chris Kenner simplifies the technique, making it accessible while still highly deceptive.

What magicians say

Steve Faulkner describes the Combo Zero Push-Through Shuffle as "absolutely brilliant" and highlights its deceptive qualities. He praises Chris Kenner’s teaching, noting that the shuffle is refined to look effortless while maintaining full control. Faulkner also mentions that Kenner’s approach makes advanced techniques feel achievable, even for those still developing their card skills.

The shuffle is part of a broader set of techniques taught in Kenner’s masterclass, which Faulkner calls a "goldmine for card magicians." He emphasizes that the material is commercial-ready, meaning it is practical for real-world performances. If you are looking for a shuffle that looks fair but secretly keeps the deck in your control, the Combo Zero Push-Through Shuffle is a strong contender.

What people are saying about Combo Zero Push-Through Shuffle

Steve Faulkner (RealMagicReview) says...

The combo zero push-through shuffle is absolutely brilliant—taught with clarity and humor, it's a real opportunity to learn from someone who doesn't lecture often. [...] This is someone that doesn't lecture even when I saw him at a session—it was kind of a talk and a performance.

Review videos