Hold-out by Daniel Madison

Effect

The Hold-out trick is a card magic technique that allows the performer to secretly retain one or more cards while appearing to shuffle or handle the deck normally. To the audience, it looks like the magician is fairly mixing the cards, but in reality, they maintain control over specific cards, enabling them to produce them at will for surprising reveals.

Full Details

The Hold-out method is often used in conjunction with marked decks, such as the Purple Bangers by Daniel Madison. These decks are arranged in Ace through King order, making it easier to quickly set up for routines involving the Hold-out technique. The deck includes two gaff cards—a torn card for an "Impossible Location" effect and a unique nine of clubs that can be transformed into a Sharpie-like prop.

The Purple Bangers deck is printed by Make Playing Cards (MPC) and features a thick, durable stock (3.17mm for 10 cards). The back design has edge-to-edge printing, and the deck is fully marked, with Daniel Madison providing video tutorials on locating the markings.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who:

• Want to improve their card control techniques.
• Use marked decks in their performances.
• Enjoy advanced card magic with strong audience impact.
• Appreciate high-quality, durable playing cards.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Hold-out technique requires practice to execute smoothly. While the method itself is not overly complex, maintaining natural handling and misdirection is key. The Purple Bangers deck, with its thick stock and clear markings, can help make the process easier, but performers should still dedicate time to mastering the sleight.

What Magicians Say

David from Magic Orthodoxy praises the Purple Bangers deck, calling the stock "fantastic" and "super thick," noting that it exceeds the quality of many casino decks. He also highlights the promotional aspect, where nine golden tickets hidden in the decks grant winners a 45-minute consultation with Daniel Madison.

David mentions, "Daniel wouldn’t print on crappy cards. Daniel is a card lover like I am, so he's going to give you good stock." He strongly recommends the deck, especially at its current price of $29, and appreciates the additional gaff cards and marked deck functionality.

Overall, the Hold-out technique, combined with a well-made marked deck like the Purple Bangers, offers magicians a powerful tool for deceptive and engaging performances.