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Double Any Card at Any Number by Ian Wong

Created by: Ian Wong

The 'Double Any Card at Any Number' trick is a sophisticated close-up card magic routine that allows the magician to perform a double version of the classic 'Any Card at Any Number' (ACAN) effect. In this trick, two spectators each select a card from separate halves of a shuffled deck, while a third spectator predicts both the chosen cards and their exact positions in the deck. The magician then reveals that the predictions are correct, with each spectator's card appearing at the predicted number in the deck. This is a powerful mentalism and card magic hybrid, perfect for close-up or parlor settings. Buyers should note that the trick requires a gaffed deck and some intermediate card handling skills, particularly the ability to perform a perfect faro shuffle.

Key features

  • Uses a gaffed deck with a classic system updated with new routines

  • Includes four strong routines, with the double ACAN being the most advanced

  • Deck features a unique back design (not Bicycle), which may require careful handling

  • Comes with a 51-minute streaming tutorial with English subtitles

  • Suitable for close-up, parlor, and card table magic

Pros

  • Highly creative routines that update a classic gaff system

  • Magic happens largely in the spectators' hands, enhancing the illusion

  • Deck allows fanning to show all faces as different

  • Good instruction quality with clear visuals and subtitles

  • Potential to inspire new routines beyond the taught ones

Cons

  • Non-standard back design may raise spectator suspicions

  • Not a Bicycle deck, which might be preferred by some magicians

  • Requires intermediate skills, particularly for the double ACAN routine

  • Does not teach the faro shuffle in detail

  • Priced at $39.95, which may feel steep for some

Effect

The Double Any Card at Any Number trick is a powerful variation of the classic "Any Card at Any Number" (ACAN) effect. It involves three spectators: two choose cards from shuffled halves of the deck, while the third writes predictions for both selections. When the deck is spread, the predictions match exactly—each chosen card appears at the predicted position in the deck. The result is a baffling double revelation that feels impossible.

Full Details

This routine uses a gaffed deck system, though not one based on common gimmicks like the Invisible Deck or Mirage Deck. The method allows for a clean, hands-off presentation where spectators shuffle and handle the cards themselves. The magician maintains control without obvious sleight of hand, making the trick highly deceptive.

The routine includes:

  • A shuffled deck split between two spectators.
  • Free selections from each half.
  • A third spectator predicting both the card and its exact position in the deck.
  • A final spread revealing both predictions are correct.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Intermediate card magicians comfortable with gaffed decks.
  • Performers who enjoy audience participation and hands-off magic.
  • Those looking for strong, repeatable routines with minimal reset.

Difficulty

The Double Any Card at Any Number is the most challenging routine in the Puzzlement Deck. It requires:

  • Basic card handling (overhand shuffles, cuts).
  • Confidence in managing spectator interactions.
  • Familiarity with the Faros shuffle, though alternatives exist if this is a weak point.

Fiddlinjonny notes that while the Faro shuffle is used, the trick remains learnable with practice. The other routines in the deck are beginner-friendly, making this a good investment for skill progression.

What Magicians Say

Fiddlinjonny praises the Double Any Card at Any Number as "super powerful" and a fresh take on the classic ACAN effect. He highlights:

  • Strong audience impact: "It will leave the spectator dumbfounded."
  • Creative method: "Ian Wong has done a real service in updating a classic gaff system."
  • Handling concerns: The non-standard back design may raise suspicion, but strong presentation mitigates this.

He also mentions that while the deck is gaffed, the routines justify the cost for those who value strong, practical magic.

If you enjoy card magic with multiple revelations and don’t mind working with a gaffed deck, the Double Any Card at Any Number is a compelling addition to your repertoire.

What people are saying about Double Any Card at Any Number

fiddlinjonny says...

The routines are so stinking good they're just good, and I kick myself for not thinking of them. Ian Wong has done a real service in taking a classic gaff system and updating it with new ways of thinking.

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