Cull

Cull is a foundational close-up card magic sleight that allows a magician to secretly control one or multiple cards during a spread, making it appear as though the cards are fairly mixed. Spectators see a deck shuffled by themselves, often with a standard overhand shuffle that doesn't fully randomize the cards, enabling the magician to locate or position specific cards like the Four Aces or a selected card with deceptive ease. This trick is versatile for effects such as finding aces, color separations, or coincidence plots, and it requires practice to master the subtle hand movements and natural performance style to avoid detection. Buyers should be aware that it involves sleight-of-hand techniques that demand dedicated practice and may benefit from personalized instruction for optimal execution.

Key features

Relies on spectator's overhand shuffle which often leaves cards grouped, simplifying control
Can be performed with or without advanced culling techniques, offering options for different skill levels
Versatile for various routines like Triumph, ace productions, or coincidence effects
Emphasizes natural performance with tips on pacing, eye placement, and angle management to avoid flashing
Suitable for magicians of all levels, from beginners learning multicard culling to advanced performers refining their technique

Pros

Highly deceptive and fooling when executed properly
Builds foundational skills in card magic that are applicable to many other tricks
Allows for fair-seeming performances with spectator involvement in shuffling and selection
Can be adapted for controlling multiple cards or entire suits with practice

Cons

Requires significant practice to master the sleight and avoid detection
May not work effectively if spectators use a more thorough shuffle method
Angle-sensitive and can flash if not performed carefully
Beginners might find the cull challenging without additional guidance or lessons

Effect

The Cull is a sleight that allows a magician to secretly control one or more cards while appearing to simply handle the deck. To an audience, the magician might spread through the cards or allow a spectator to shuffle, yet the magician can still locate and control specific cards like the Aces or a spectator's selection. The result is a seemingly impossible feat of card location or prediction that feels fair and magical.

Full details

The Cull is a fundamental card sleight used to secretly gather and control cards during an apparently casual handling of the deck. It involves spreading the cards and using subtle finger movements to isolate and secure desired cards, often while the deck is in motion or being squared. Cavan Booth explains that a cull can be used to control the Four Aces during a spread, making it ideal for gambling-themed demonstrations. Reid Ferry describes the Cull as highly versatile, enabling effects like Triumph and color separation. AMillionCardTricks demonstrates its use in a coincidence plot, where a spectator's card is secretly positioned for a numerical revelation. The effectiveness of routines using the Cull can be enhanced by understanding spectator psychology, such as leveraging the fact that a standard overhand shuffle often leaves groups of cards together.

Who should consider the trick

The Cull is suitable for magicians at various skill levels. Beginners can start with basic versions, as Cavan Booth suggests practicing with a single card before advancing. Intermediate and advanced performers will find value in its application to more complex routines, such as controlling multiple cards or entire suits. Reid Ferry notes that the Cull is extremely versatile, making it valuable for magicians interested in card magic, gambling demonstrations, or mentalism effects. Those who perform regularly and seek a reliable method for card control should consider learning the Cull.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Cull requires practice to master. Cavan Booth acknowledges that the cull-based method needs practice but is a great way for beginners to learn multicard culling. Reid Ferry emphasizes that mastering the Cull involves dedicated practice and personalized guidance, covering hand positioning, rhythm, and angle management. profrt's tutorial focuses on a single critical tip to make the move convincing rather than technically perfect, indicating that the initial learning curve can be challenging but manageable with focused advice. AMillionCardTricks notes that while the method is straightforward, smooth execution is key to maintaining deception. Overall, the Cull is moderately difficult but accessible with consistent practice.

What magicians say

Cavan Booth highlights the importance of the spectator's shuffle, noting that a standard overhand shuffle doesn't thoroughly mix the cards, which can be exploited. He says, "The effectiveness of this trick hinges on the spectator performing a standard overhand shuffle." Reid Ferry calls the Cull the "best and most versatile move in all of card magic" and recommends personalized lessons for optimal learning. profrt offers a focused tip to improve the Cull, aiming to make it convincing rather than perfect. AMillionCardTricks praises the Cull for its versatility and impact, stating it is one of their "favorite sleights" due to its application in strong, fair-seeming tricks. These insights show that magicians value the Cull for its utility and deceptive potential.

What people are saying about Cull

AMillionCardTricks says...

The creator loves this trick for its simplicity and strong impact, calling the cull one of their favorite sleights due to its versatility.

CavanBooth1 says...

The effectiveness of this trick hinges on the spectator performing a standard overhand shuffle. Booth explains that this type of shuffle doesn't thoroughly mix the cards, making it easier to control them.

profrt says...

The central premise is that one critical adjustment in technique or thinking can act as a 'key' that unlocks the entire move, focusing on the effect for the spectator rather than flawless execution.

ReidFerry says...

The Cull is the 'best and most versatile move in all of card magic,' capable of enabling incredible effects like Triumph and color separation.