Gate Keeper by Craig Petty

Created by: Craig Petty

GateKeeper is a visually stunning close-up magic trick created by Craig Petty. The effect begins with the magician presenting a key and a coin to the spectator. The magician challenges the spectator to push the coin through the hole in the key, which seems impossible. Then, in a jaw-dropping moment, the hole in the key visibly expands, allowing the coin to drop through. Immediately after, the hole snaps back to its original size, and both the key and coin can be examined by the spectator. This trick is designed to match the Key Master set but can also be performed as a standalone effect. It’s perfect for walk-around or impromptu performances, as it’s instantly repeatable, requires no table, and can be carried on your keychain.

Key features

  • Visually stunning expansion of the key’s hole

  • Instantly repeatable with no reset needed

  • Can be performed as a standalone trick or integrated into Key Master routines

  • Examinable before and after the effect

  • Perfect for walk-around or close-up magic

  • Designed to be carried on a keychain for everyday use

Pros

  • Highly visual and impossible-looking effect

  • Easy to learn and perform

  • Examinable before and after the trick

  • Versatile—can be used in various routines

  • Portable and ready to perform anytime

Cons

  • May require practice to perfect the handling

  • Limited to audiences who can see the key and coin clearly

Effect

GateKeeper is a visually stunning magic trick that involves a key and a coin. The magician challenges the audience to push the coin through the hole in the key, claiming it’s impossible. After some suspense, the magician dramatically expands the hole in the key, allowing the coin to drop through. The hole then snaps back into place, leaving the key completely examinable before and after the trick. The effect is both baffling and highly visual, making it a strong addition to any magician’s repertoire.

Full details

GateKeeper is a standalone trick but can also be seamlessly integrated into routines using Key Master, another popular magic effect by Craig Petty. The key is designed to match the Key Master set, offering versatility for those who already own it. The trick is performed with a real key and a coin, and the method is cleverly hidden, making it appear completely impossible to the audience. The key is examinable before and after the trick, adding to the mystery. The tutorial includes multiple ways to perform the effect, ensuring magicians can adapt it to their style.

Who should consider the trick

GateKeeper is ideal for magicians who enjoy close-up or walk-around magic. It’s particularly suited for those who already own Key Master, as it complements the set perfectly. However, it also works as a standalone trick, making it accessible to magicians of all levels. If you’re looking for a quick, visual, and repeatable effect that can be performed anywhere, GateKeeper is a great choice.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

GateKeeper is designed to be easy to learn and perform. According to Craig Petty, the creator, most magicians can master the trick in about half an hour. The method is straightforward, and the tutorial provides clear instructions on how to execute the effect smoothly. While it’s simple to perform, the visual impact is significant, making it a high-reward trick for minimal effort.

What magicians say

The AlakazamMagicUK team describes GateKeeper as a "dream come true" and a "game changer" in their live stream. They highlight its visual appeal and the fact that it’s examinable before and after the trick, which adds to its credibility. Craig Petty himself emphasizes the trick’s versatility, stating that it can be performed as a standalone effect or integrated into existing Key Master routines. The trick has been well-received by the magic community, with many praising its simplicity and strong audience reactions.

What people are saying about Gate Keeper

AlakazamMagicUK says...

GateKeeper is a dream come true for me—it’s been one of my favorite effects for 20 years, and now it’s even better with this new twist.

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