Four Aces by John Scarne, Harry Lorayne, Ed Marlo, Allan Ackerman, Alich, Daryl, Chris Rawlins, John Bannon, Cavan Booth, PigCakee, and RFSleights

Effect

The Four Aces trick is a classic card magic effect. To the audience, it appears the magician has a remarkable ability to find and control the four Aces from a shuffled deck. The Aces may be discovered together in a surprising location, such as in the spectator's own hand, or they may be produced in a visually striking manner. The effect often concludes with a strong, clean finish that leaves the audience wondering how the Aces could possibly have been gathered from a mixed deck.

Full details

The Four Aces is not a single trick but a classic plot with many different methods. Performers can choose from a wide variety of techniques to achieve the same stunning result. Some methods rely on mathematical principles and pre-arrangement, requiring no advanced sleight of hand. These are often called self-working tricks. Other methods use sleight of hand like false shuffles, cuts, and controls to secretly maintain the Aces in a known position. Techniques such as the double undercut or bottom deal can be used to control selected cards. Some routines use specially prepared decks, like a stripper deck or marked cards, to aid in locating the Aces. The presentation can vary from a direct demonstration of skill to a playful game or a story. Many versions include a surprise ending, such as also revealing the Four Kings.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is suitable for magicians at all skill levels. Beginners can find self-working versions that are easy to learn and perform effectively. MattMcGurk notes these tricks are "perfect for beginners to learn quickly" and have a "strong visual impact." Intermediate and advanced performers can explore methods that involve sleight of hand and more complex routining. The trick is versatile for different settings, from casual social situations to formal close-up magic. Magicians looking for a reliable, well-known effect that can be adapted to their personal style will find many options within the Four Aces plot.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty varies greatly depending on the chosen method. Self-working versions have minimal difficulty. As MurphysMagicSupplies states, Allan Ackerman's version is a "self-working" effect that relies on "clever setup and presentation rather than sleight of hand." These require practice in presentation, not complex moves. Methods involving sleight of hand demand more practice. Techniques like false shuffles and cuts need to look natural. PigCake mentions that while his routine aims for simplicity, "some basic card handling skills are necessary." Advanced controls, like the cull taught by CavanBooth, require dedicated practice to perform smoothly and without suspicion. The stripper deck method highlighted by AlakazamMagicUK is noted for being "easy to use, even for beginners."

What magicians say

Reviewers highlight different strengths of various Four Aces methods. SeanDevine, in his tribute to John Scarne, emphasizes the historical appeal and the dedication needed, stating "considerable practice is required" for advanced manipulation. CavanBooth focuses on practicality, teaching a method that leverages a spectator's shuffle, noting it's "more fooling and practical." He advises, "embrace the cut" and appear relaxed. PigCake values presentation, suggesting adding a "comedic gag" to enhance the effect. Steve from steventaputoro praises a self-working version with a kicker ending, saying the "dual reveal elevates the trick." He finds it ideal for repeat performances. CardMechanic often discusses the psychology of deception, noting in one summary that "the psychological impact of consistent wins is a key component." Profrt compares routines by masters Harry Lorayne and Ed Marlo, offering magicians a choice between an "interactive, audience-tested" effect and a "more deceptive and technically impressive" one.