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Jiggernaut by Mark Jenest

Created by: Mark Jenest

Jiggernaut is a playful and interactive close-up magic trick that uses a Chinese finger torture device (a jigger) and a green olive to perform an impromptu 'sobriety test'. The magician appears to place the olive in their pocket, only for it to secretly appear under the jigger thanks to slick misdirection. The trick is perfect for casual settings, especially bars and restaurants, and ends with a surprising climax where two corks appear instead of the olive. It's a chop cup-style routine that's both entertaining and mystifying, with a strong emphasis on audience participation and humor.

Where to buy

Jiggernaut by Mark Jenest from Monster Magic
Monster MagicJiggernaut by Mark Jenest£47.99
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Key features

  • Uses simple, everyday props (jigger and olive) making it easy to perform anywhere.

  • Relies on misdirection and humor, engaging the audience effectively.

  • Compact and silent, suitable for any environment.

  • Perfect for bar and restaurant settings, with a logical 'sobriety test' premise.

  • Chop-cup mechanics are perfectly balanced for smooth performance.

Pros

  • Easy-to-find props.

  • Strong comedic timing and audience interaction.

  • Solid misdirection.

  • Compact size makes it easy to carry.

  • Durable and well-made props.

Cons

  • Works best with a willing audience.

  • Relies heavily on audience participation.

  • No longer widely available, making it hard to find.

Effect

In Jiggernaut, the magician uses a jigger (a small metal cup for measuring spirits) and an olive to perform a playful "sobriety test." The audience sees the olive placed in the magician's pocket, only for it to repeatedly reappear under the jigger. The routine ends with a surprising twist—two corks appear instead of the olive. The effect is interactive, humorous, and well-suited for casual settings like bars or parties.

Full details

Jiggernaut is a chop cup-style routine with a unique presentation. The props include a jigger, realistic fake olives, and corks. The trick relies on misdirection and smooth handling rather than complex sleight of hand. The routine is repeatable, allowing the magician to build anticipation before the final reveal. The props are durable and compact, making them easy to carry.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform in social settings like bars, restaurants, or parties. It works well for those who enjoy interactive and humorous magic. Since it requires minimal setup and uses everyday objects, it’s also a good choice for impromptu performances.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Jiggernaut is not technically demanding. The method relies more on presentation and timing than advanced sleight of hand. Craig Petty notes that the chop cup mechanics are "balanced perfectly," making the trick smooth to execute. Alex Kirk describes it as "easy to do" with no difficult moves. Beginners can learn it quickly, while experienced performers can adapt it into their existing routines.

What magicians say

  • Craig Petty (Magic TV): "Jiggernaut is one of the best tricks that's come out in the last 20 or 30 years... It's small, silent, and adaptable to any routine."
  • Alex Kirk (Monster Magic Shop): "A golden oldie that’s easy, entertaining, and justified in any social setting."
  • AlakazamMagicUK: "The trick shines with its simplicity and strong audience interaction... Playful delivery and humor keep the crowd engaged."

The consensus is that Jiggernaut is a highly practical, engaging, and durable trick that remains effective even years after its release.

What people are saying about Jiggernaut

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Jenest's playful delivery and humor keep the crowd engaged, making this a great choice for casual performances. The trick shines with its simplicity and strong audience interaction.

Alex Kirk says...

A 'golden oldie' that's 'easy, entertaining, and justified in any social setting.' The sobriety test is a great idea to introduce it, perfect for parties or if you're down the pub.

Craig Petty says...

Jiggernaut is one of the best tricks that's come out in the last 20 or 30 years... it's balanced perfectly and because of that you can do it on the spectator's hand and it looks great.

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