Guerilla Counter

Effect

The Guerilla Counter trick makes it appear as though a spectator freely selects a card from a shuffled deck. The magician then locates the chosen card with no apparent clues or sleight of hand. The spectator can shuffle the deck themselves, making the trick seem fair and impossible.

Full details

The Guerilla Counter relies on a pre-set stack of one suit (such as all 13 hearts) placed on top of the deck. The magician secretly notes a key card (for example, the Ace of Hearts) before the trick begins. The spectator deals cards face-down and stops at any point within the first 13 cards, ensuring their selection is part of the pre-arranged suit.

After the spectator stops at a card (such as the Jack of Hearts), the magician places the dealt packet back on top, positioning the key card (Ace) directly next to the selection. The deck can then be shuffled, but since all hearts are distributed randomly, the key card remains adjacent to the chosen card. To reveal the selection, the magician spreads the deck and locates the key card. The next heart in sequence is the spectator’s card.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for beginners because it is self-working once the initial setup is complete. It requires minimal sleight of hand, making it accessible to new magicians. Those who want a reliable, easy-to-perform card trick with a strong impact will find the Guerilla Counter useful.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Guerilla Counter is rated as easy to perform. The method relies on a simple setup and does not require advanced card handling skills. Basic techniques like false cuts or false shuffles can enhance the trick but are not necessary for the effect to work.

What magicians say

BestMagic describes the Guerilla Counter as a "practical twist on classic key card techniques." They highlight that the spectator has a genuine free choice and can even shuffle the deck, making the trick more deceptive. The creator recommends it as a foundational trick for new magicians due to its simplicity and strong effect. Performance tips include using false cuts or shuffles to maintain the stack before the trick begins. For added impact, the Guerilla Counter can be incorporated into the reveal.