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Jordan Count

The Jordan Count is a sophisticated card sleight used in close-up magic, primarily as an alternative to the Elmsley Count. It allows magicians to conceal the true number of cards being counted, creating a seamless and deceptive performance. This technique is essential for tricks involving color changes, predictions, and other card magic effects where the illusion of a fair count is crucial. The Jordan Count is praised for its smooth, natural-looking execution, making it a favorite among magicians seeking to enhance their card handling skills.

Key features

  • Alternative to the Elmsley Count with a smoother execution

  • Essential for tricks involving color changes and predictions

  • Enhances deception in card magic performances

  • Requires practice to master the smooth, consistent motion

Pros

  • Creates a more natural-looking count

  • Adds depth to a magician's repertoire

  • Can be adapted to various card magic effects

Cons

  • Requires careful handling to avoid revealing the secret

  • Needs practice to achieve smooth execution

Effect

The Jordan Count is a deceptive card sleight used to make it appear as though a different number of cards are being counted than actually are. It creates the illusion of a fair count while secretly hiding or controlling certain cards. This technique is often used in routines involving color changes, predictions, or card transformations.

Full Details

The Jordan Count is a false count method similar to the Elmsley Count but with a smoother, more natural motion. It is commonly used in card magic to conceal the true number of cards in a small packet. The count relies on precise finger positioning and timing to maintain the illusion.

Magicians often use the Jordan Count in routines where they need to show a small number of cards while secretly controlling others. It pairs well with other sleights like the double lift and triple lift, making it useful in multi-phase tricks.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Jordan Count is best suited for magicians who already have some experience with card handling. It is particularly useful for those who perform close-up magic and want to enhance their false count techniques. If you perform tricks involving color changes, predictions, or packet tricks, learning the Jordan Count can add versatility to your routines.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Jordan Count requires practice to execute smoothly. While not the most difficult sleight, it demands consistent motion and proper finger placement to avoid flashing. MagicOrthodoxy notes that the Jordan Count is one of the more challenging aspects of certain tricks but reassures that with practice, it becomes manageable.

AMillionCardTricks emphasizes the importance of smooth, natural movement when performing the Jordan Count. They suggest experimenting with different grips and practicing regularly to find the most comfortable execution.

What Magicians Say

MagicOrthodoxy describes the Jordan Count as a key component in strong color-changing deck routines, stating that it helps create a "what the heck?" moment for spectators. They highlight its use in well-constructed tricks, praising its deceptive qualities when performed correctly.

AMillionCardTricks discusses the Jordan Count as a viable alternative to the Elmsley Count, noting that it can feel more natural for some performers. They recommend it for magicians looking to refine their false counts and improve their card magic repertoire.

Both reviewers agree that mastering the Jordan Count enhances a magician's ability to perform convincing and visually deceptive card tricks.

What people are saying about Jordan Count

AMillionCardTricks says...

The **Jordan Count** – A smoother, more natural-looking alternative that achieves a similar effect. [...] Ensuring the count remains **invisible** to the audience by maintaining smooth, consistent motion.

magicorthodoxy says...

David identifies the **Jordan Count** as the most challenging, but reassures viewers that the video includes instruction on how to execute it. [...] He considers *Stranger's Gallery* to be one of the best color-changing decks available, praising its logical presentation and visual impact.

Review videos

Tutorial videos