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Invisible Deck by Charlie Miller and U. F. Grant

Created by: Charlie Miller, U. F. Grant

The Invisible Deck is a classic close-up and mentalism card trick where a spectator freely names any card from a standard deck. The magician then reveals that the named card is mysteriously the only one face down in a deck that has been in full view the entire time, creating an impossible and mind-blowing moment. This effect is often used for predictions, mind-reading, or as a powerful closer in performances. Buyers should note that it requires a specially prepared (gimmicked) deck, which is not impromptu, but it involves no sleight of hand, making it accessible to performers of all skill levels. Variations like Sure-Split improve handling for dry hands or dexterity issues, and some versions allow the deck to be examined after the trick, enhancing the illusion.

Where to buy

Invisible Decks from Ellusionist
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Key features

  • No sleight of hand required, making it beginner-friendly

  • Uses a gimmicked deck for the effect, not impromptu

  • Strong visual and mental impact, often used as a closer

  • Versatile for close-up, walk-around, and stage settings

  • Some versions like Sure-Split offer improved handling and no reset between performances

  • Can be adapted with creative presentations, such as storytelling or audience participation

Pros

  • Easy to learn and perform with minimal practice

  • Consistently fools audiences with its impossible revelation

  • Durable and reliable for repeated use

  • Highly versatile in presentation and performance contexts

  • Upgraded versions solve common handling issues like fumbling

Cons

  • Requires a gimmicked deck, limiting impromptu use

  • Cannot hand out the reversed card for examination in most versions

  • Some performers may find the method less flexible than sleight-based tricks

  • Initial cost for the deck and potential need for replacements over time

Effect

The Invisible Deck is a classic card trick where a spectator names any playing card. The magician then produces a deck of cards that has been in full view the entire time. The magician spreads through the deck to show all cards face the same way except for one. The spectator's named card is the only card reversed in the deck. This creates a powerful moment of impossibility and surprise.

Full details

The Invisible Deck uses a specially prepared deck of cards. This preparation allows the performer to reveal any named card as the only reversed card in the deck. The deck remains examinable after the performance in some versions. The method does not require advanced sleight of hand. Performers can achieve the effect through proper handling of the gimmicked deck. Some modern versions like Sure-Split feature improved roughing configurations for smoother handling. These updated versions work well for performers with dry hands or dexterity challenges. The deck requires no reset between performances. It is built for durability and repeated use.

Who should consider the trick

The Invisible Deck suits magicians at all skill levels. Beginners can perform it effectively with minimal practice. Professionals appreciate its strong impact and reliability. It works well for close-up magic, strolling performances, and stage shows. Mentalists often incorporate it into their acts for its mind-reading presentation. Performers looking for a high-impact trick that requires no sleight of hand will find it valuable. Those who perform in restaurant settings or for walk-around gigs benefit from its quick reset and strong audience reaction.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Invisible Deck is easy to learn and perform. Most versions require no sleight of hand. Beginners can typically learn the basic handling in under an hour. The trick focuses more on presentation than technical skill. Proper handling involves understanding the deck's mechanics and practicing the spread. Craig Petty notes that even absolute beginners can perform it successfully. The Sure-Split version specifically addresses handling difficulties some magicians experience with traditional invisible decks. With minimal practice, performers can present the effect confidently.

What magicians say

Murphy's Magic states that Sure-Split "uses a new roughing configuration for smooth performance without sleight of hand" and is "suitable for performers with dry hands, dexterity issues, or any skill level." Craig Petty recommends the Invisible Deck for its "versatility and possibilities" and calls it "a seriously strong Gaff deck of cards ever created." He suggests using hand cream for better card handling with the deck. Multiple reviewers from Alakazam Magic highlight its value in budget acts, noting it delivers "a powerful mind-reading moment that leaves audiences stunned." Steve Rowe includes it in his desert island tricks, valuing it for "simplicity and the way it can fool audiences." Magicians consistently praise its strong visual impact and reliability in performance situations.

What people are saying about Invisible Deck

AlakazamMagicUK says...

The Invisible Deck is a classic mentalism tool for impossible-seeming predictions, ideal for strong openers in stage acts and blending with psychological intrigue for mixed audiences.

BAM_magic says...

Total Recall offers a fresh take on the invisible deck concept, making the spectator feel empowered as if possessing a magical ability, with a tutorial covering multiple performance variations for close-up and walk-around settings.

BigBlindMedia says...

Cavan enjoys the unpredictability of mentalism and highlights the value of the invisible deck, though he admits he hasn't performed it in a while, emphasizing that performing is essential to magic.

magicorthodoxy says...

Total Recall is a deceptive alternative to the invisible deck routine, utilizing a subtle gimmick within a standard deck for a seemingly impossible feat, though it requires specific setup after each performance.

magic-tv says...

Craig recommends the Invisible Deck for its versatility and possibilities, especially in kids' magic shows, and suggests using hand cream for smoother card handling to improve reveals.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Sure-Split is a redesigned version of the Invisible Deck with improved handling, using a new roughing configuration for smooth performance without sleight of hand. It's suitable for performers with dry hands, dexterity issues, or any skill level, and no reset is needed between performances.

RealMagicReview says...

ID 360 is a fully surrounded Invisible Deck variant that works with the deck face up or down, no sleight needed, and is great for angle-proof performances, though you can’t hand out the reversed card.

SankeyMagic says...

Comparable to the 'Invisible Deck' but with a different method, this trick relies on the advanced 'Center Reverse' sleight for strong visual impact and presentation, though it requires practice for smooth execution.

SaturnMagicShop says...

The Hand Picked Astonishments INVISIBLE DECK RED with Joshua Jay is a reliable, reputation-making effect, praised for its impossibility and audience impact, adding prestige through collaboration.

StevensMagicEmporium says...

Total Recall offers a unique advantage over the Invisible Deck by allowing the spectator to examine the deck after the performance, making it feel like a demonstration of their own superhuman memory.

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