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Double Riffle Force by CardMechanic

Created by: CardMechanic

The 'Double Riffle Force' is a close-up card magic technique that allows the magician to force a specific card onto a spectator with seemingly free choices. The trick involves two riffle shuffles with predetermined stop points, where the magician places the top card (the forced card) in a position where it will be revealed as the spectator's 'chosen' card. The method is adaptable to any card, making it versatile for various routines. The creator demonstrates this using the King of Spades but emphasizes that any card can be forced by placing it on top of the deck beforehand. The trick relies on consistency in the riffle stops and a natural, casual presentation to maintain the illusion of randomness.

Key features

  • Relies on two riffle shuffles with controlled stop points

  • Can force any card by placing it on top of the deck initially

  • Requires consistency in the riffle stops for success

  • Adaptable to different routines and presentations

  • Demonstrated using the creator's own 'Canis Lupus Alphalux' playing cards

Pros

  • Simple yet effective method

  • Versatile for forcing any card

  • Natural-looking shuffles maintain spectator trust

  • Easy to incorporate into existing routines

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the consistency of riffle stops

  • May not fool experienced card handlers if stops are telegraphed

Effect

The Double Riffle Force makes a spectator believe they freely choose a card, when in reality, the magician controls the selection. The magician riffles through the deck twice, asking the spectator to call "stop" each time. Despite the apparent randomness, the card revealed is always the one the magician intended to force—such as the King of Spades in the demonstration.

Full Details

The trick relies on two riffle shuffles with controlled stops. The magician places the force card (e.g., King of Spades) on top of the deck before starting. During the first riffle, the spectator calls "stop," and the magician flips the packet above the stop point face down onto the deck. The process repeats with a second riffle and stop. The top card remains the forced card, while the shuffled portion disguises the method.

Key points:

  • The force card must start on top.
  • The magician must maintain consistent stop points for reliability.
  • Any card can be forced by adjusting the initial setup.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who:

  • Want a convincing, hands-off force.
  • Prefer techniques that appear fair and unforced.
  • Are comfortable with riffle shuffles and timing.

It works well in casual or formal settings, especially when a natural-looking force is needed.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Double Riffle Force is moderately easy to learn but requires practice for smooth execution. The main challenges are:

  • Making the riffles and stops look natural.
  • Ensuring consistency in stop positions.
  • Maintaining a relaxed demeanor to avoid suspicion.

CardMechanic notes that "the success of this force depends on the magician's ability to consistently call 'stop' at the same locations each time." With rehearsal, most intermediate magicians can master it.

What Magicians Say

CardMechanic describes it as "a relatively simple, yet effective, force" and highlights its adaptability: "any card can be forced by placing it on top of the deck before beginning the shuffles." The demonstration emphasizes a casual approach, where the riffles should appear unforced to sell the illusion of a free choice.

The trick’s strength lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a useful addition to a magician’s toolkit.

What people are saying about Double Riffle Force

CardMechanic says...

The key to the force is consistency in the riffle stops—any card can be forced by placing it on top of the deck before the shuffles. [...] This is a simple yet effective method that blends seamlessly into routines.

Tutorial videos