Kicker by Craig Petty

Created by: Craig Petty

Kicker is a powerful and visually stunning close-up card trick that combines the classic 'Any Card at Any Number' (ACAAN) effect with a jaw-dropping blank-deck reveal. A spectator freely selects a card (e.g., the Five of Spades) and shuffles it back into the deck. They then name any number (e.g., 16), and the card is revealed at that exact position. The kicker comes when the magician shows that every other card in the deck is blank, leaving the deck examinable and instantly reset. This trick is perfect for performers looking for a strong, commercial effect that leaves a lasting impression. It’s available for learning on The Netrix platform.

Key features

Combines ACAAN with a blank-deck reveal for a strong finish
Deck is examinable and resets instantly, making it practical for performances
Available to learn on The Netrix platform
Requires precise handling and mastery of specific sleights
Strong visual impact and commercial appeal

Pros

Strong visual impact with the blank-deck reveal
Deck is examinable and resets instantly
Commercial appeal and practicality for performances

Cons

Requires precise handling and sleight mastery
The card is technically forced, not truly 'any card'

Effect

The Kicker trick combines the classic 'Any Card at Any Number' (ACAAN) effect with a jaw-dropping blank-deck reveal. A spectator selects a card, shuffles it back into the deck, and names a number. The chosen card appears at that exact position. The kicker comes when the magician reveals that every other card in the deck is blank, leaving the deck examinable and instantly reset.

Full details

Kicker is a refined version of the ACAAN trick, enhanced with a blank-deck reveal. The spectator selects a card, which is shuffled back into the deck. They then name a number, and the chosen card appears at that exact position. The final reveal shows that every other card in the deck is blank, making the deck examinable and instantly reset. The trick is designed to be practical for real-world performances, with a strong visual impact.

Who should consider the trick

Kicker is ideal for magicians who want to add a strong, commercial ACAAN routine to their repertoire. It is particularly suited for those who perform in walk-around or close-up settings, as the deck is examinable and resets instantly. Magicians who enjoy combining classic effects with surprising kickers will find this trick especially appealing.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Kicker requires precise handling and mastery of specific sleights. While the trick is designed to be practical, it does involve a forced card, which may require practice to execute smoothly. Magicians with experience in card magic and sleight of hand will find it easier to perform, but beginners may need to invest time in mastering the necessary techniques.

What magicians say

Craig Petty, the creator of Kicker, shares his personal experience with the trick, including its use in a competition. He highlights the strong visual impact and the practicality of the examinable deck and instant reset. Other magicians on The Netrix platform have praised Kicker for its commercial appeal and the combination of the ACAAN effect with the blank-deck reveal. However, they note that the trick requires precise handling and may not be suitable for beginners.

What people are saying about Kicker

magic-tv says...

Kicker combines 'Any Card at Any Number' with a blank-deck reveal for a jaw-dropping finish. The deck is examinable and resets instantly, making it practical for performances.