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Estimation Aces by Paul Gordon

Created by: Paul Gordon

Estimation Aces is a captivating close-up card magic trick created by Paul Gordon, where the magician appears to demonstrate advanced card-cheating skills. After a spectator shuffles the deck thoroughly using various methods like the Hindu, Waterfall, Overhand, or Faro Shuffle, the magician estimates the positions of the four aces through shuffle tracking and then cuts the deck with precision to reveal each ace one by one. This interactive performance often includes a humorous element, such as pretending to teach the method to an assistant, making it engaging and fun for audiences. Buyers should note that while the trick is versatile and visually impactful, it requires significant practice to master the estimations and cuts accurately, and it works best with a well-worn deck for a casual, relatable feel.

Key features

  • Involves shuffle tracking and precise cutting to locate the four aces

  • Adaptable to different shuffling methods like Hindu, Waterfall, Overhand, and Faro Shuffles

  • Interactive performance style with potential for humor and audience engagement

  • Ideal for showcasing card-handling skills in a fun, deceptive manner

  • Requires practice to master estimations and cuts for a smooth execution

Pros

  • Versatile and adaptable to various shuffling scenarios

  • Creates a strong visual impact and proves card-cheating abilities

  • Interactive and engaging for audiences, enhancing performance value

Cons

  • Demands significant practice to achieve accuracy in estimations and cuts

  • May not be suitable for beginners due to the skill level required

Effect

The magician shuffles a deck of cards thoroughly. They then claim they can estimate the position of the four aces. One by one, the magician cuts the deck and reveals an ace. They repeat this until all four aces have been cleanly produced from different parts of the shuffled deck. The effect is a direct and visual demonstration of incredible card control.

Full details

Estimation Aces is a trick created by Paul Gordon. The method relies on shuffle tracking and precise cutting. The magician uses estimations to locate the aces after various types of shuffles. The trick is versatile and can be performed with different shuffling styles, such as the Hindu Shuffle, Waterfall Shuffle, Overhand Shuffle, and Faro Shuffle. This adaptability makes the trick suitable for different performance situations. The routine can be presented as a demonstration of card cheating skills, adding a layer of engagement for the audience.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform with a deck of cards regularly. It is particularly good for those who want to showcase advanced card handling. Magicians who enjoy interactive performances will find value in this trick. As Craig Petty demonstrated, you can present it in a fun way by pretending to teach the method to a spectator. It is a strong choice for magicians looking to add a visual and impressive ace production to their repertoire.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Estimation Aces requires practice to perform well. The difficulty lies in mastering the estimations and the accuracy of the cuts. You need to develop a feel for the deck to execute the trick smoothly. Craig Petty notes that it requires practice to master the cuts and estimations. The trick is not self-working; your skill level directly impacts the cleanliness of the revelations. A well-worn deck can make the actions feel more casual and help with the estimations.

What magicians say

Craig Petty performed the trick and highlighted its versatility. He showed it working with multiple shuffle types, making it adaptable. He said the trick is ideal for proving card-cheating skills in a fun, engaging way. Andy from AlakazamMagicUK included Estimation Aces in his selection of recommended card magic, describing it as a modern twist on classic card magic. This indicates that knowledgeable magicians recognize it as a strong and practical routine.

What people are saying about Estimation Aces

Andy from AlakazamMagicUK says...

Estimation Aces by Paul Gordon is featured in Andy's selection of classic card magic with a modern twist.

Craig Petty says...

The trick hinges on estimating card positions and cutting with precision, creating a strong visual impact. [...] While it's versatile and great for audience engagement, it does require practice to master the cuts and estimations.

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