Hopping Keys by Bond Lee

Effect

The Hopping Keys trick is a visual transposition effect using keys instead of coins. The magician shows two keys—one silver and one gold. They place one key into their pocket, snap their fingers, and the key instantly returns to their hand. The effect repeats with the other key, creating a playful back-and-forth illusion. Finally, both keys vanish and reappear in an impossible location, such as inside a sealed card box.

Full Details

Hopping Keys is based on the classic "Hopping Halves" coin trick but adapted for keys. The set includes:

• Two gimmicked keys (silver and gold) with matching shells.
• Two regular keys for examination.
• A tutorial teaching multiple routines, including the main transposition effect and a copper-silver transposition.

The gimmicks are well-made, with good shell coverage that hides the method effectively. The keys are designed to look realistic, though some reviewers note they feel lightweight and slightly plasticky. The tutorial is short (around 10 minutes) and focuses on core routines rather than extensive variations.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

• Magicians familiar with coin magic, especially "Hopping Halves."
• Performers who want a visual, self-working transposition effect.
• Those looking for a key-based routine to integrate with other key tricks (e.g., Key Master).

It’s less suitable for performers who prioritize heavy, realistic-feeling props, as the keys may not pass close tactile inspection.

Difficulty

Hopping Keys is easy to perform, requiring minimal sleight of hand. The gimmicks handle most of the work, making it accessible even for beginners. The main challenge is ensuring smooth handling to avoid noise when nesting the shells.

What Magicians Say

• Craig (Magic TV) praises the trick’s visual appeal and commercial potential, rating it 92%. He notes the keys feel plasticky but acknowledges they look convincing from a distance.
• Alex Kirk (Monster Magic Shop) prefers Hopping Keys over the Key Shell Set, calling it a "better use of the gimmicks" due to its visual transposition effect. However, he critiques the keys’ lightweight feel, suggesting they may not withstand close handling.

Both reviewers agree the trick is versatile and well-constructed, though the keys’ texture could be improved. The short tutorial is seen as a minor drawback, but the core routines are strong enough to justify the purchase.