Cop-Out by Ed Marlo and SeanDevine

Effect

The Cop-Out trick allows a magician to secretly control a selected card to the bottom of the deck while making it appear completely fair. The audience sees the chosen card pushed into the middle, yet it instantly appears at the bottom or vanishes entirely, setting up effects like card-to-pocket or card-through-table routines.

Full Details

The Cop-Out is a refined handling of Ed Marlo’s Convincing Control, first published in Hof’s Font (1970). The method streamlines the classic technique, making it more deceptive and natural. Key elements include:

• Streamlined Alignment – The selected card and the card above it are brought close (about an inch apart) rather than perfectly aligned, reducing suspicious handling.
• The "Secret Call" – A subtle finger curl conceals the switch, making the selected card appear to remain in view.
• The "Click" – A tactile or audible cue reinforces the illusion as the cards pass each other.
• Back Movement – A slight backward motion during the control helps hide the switch and facilitates the cop or palm.
• Cop/Palm Setup – The control positions the card for a clean cop or bottom palm, enabling various follow-up effects.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits intermediate to advanced card magicians familiar with controls and palms. It works well for performers who want a deceptive method to secretly move a card to the bottom of the deck without suspicious handling. Those interested in card-to-pocket, card-through-table, or other vanish-and-reappear effects will find it particularly useful.

Difficulty

The Cop-Out requires practice to master its subtleties. The timing of the "secret call" and the smooth execution of the back movement are crucial. While not overly complex, the technique demands precision to avoid flashing. SeanDevine notes that the move becomes natural with repetition but emphasizes practicing the nuances for a convincing performance.

What Magicians Say

SeanDevine praises the move as "one of my favorite moves in all of card magic," highlighting its versatility for effects like card-to-pocket and card-through-table routines. He explains that his refinements make the control "more fluid and deceptive" compared to the original handling. He stresses the importance of natural handling, saying, "Avoid overly careful movements. The goal is to make the control appear effortless and organic."

The Cop-Out is described as a "versatile tool" that, once mastered, offers "endless possibilities" for card magic. Performers who invest time in learning the subtleties will find it a valuable addition to their repertoire.