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Lucky Key by DiFatta Magic

Created by: DiFatta Magic

Lucky Key is a modern take on the classic Crook Lock trick, designed for close-up magic. The effect involves eight keys being mixed up by participants, who then try to unlock a padlock. Despite their efforts, none of the keys work until the final one succeeds, creating a moment of surprise and engagement. This trick is perfect for interactive performances, allowing for audience participation and the inclusion of personal items like borrowed money or predictions inside the padlock for added stakes and intrigue.

Key features

  • Modern and portable version of the classic Crook Lock trick

  • Engages audience with freedom of choice and participation

  • Can incorporate personal items like money or predictions for added effect

  • Virtually self-working with minimal setup required

  • Comes with eight keys and a small padlock, making it easy to carry and perform anywhere

Pros

  • Highly interactive and engaging for audiences

  • Portable and easy to carry, making it perfect for close-up magic

  • Flexible presentation options, including the use of themed tags for added fun

  • Simple to perform, with a method that's easy to learn

  • Comes with a comprehensive tutorial covering various presentation ideas

Cons

  • Requires a bit of practice to perfect the presentation and timing

  • The small size of the keys and padlock might be challenging to handle for some performers

Effect

The Lucky Key is a modern version of the classic Crook Lock trick. The magician shows a padlock securing a small plastic clip containing money or another valuable item. Eight keys are mixed, and participants freely choose any key to try unlocking the padlock. None of the keys work—until the final one does. The effect is clean, interactive, and leaves the audience baffled.

Full Details

The Lucky Key includes:

  • A small padlock
  • Eight keys
  • A plastic clip to hold money or other items
  • A detailed tutorial (nearly 20 minutes long)

The trick is highly deceptive because participants have complete freedom in choosing and testing the keys. The magician can even let them use the last remaining key to unlock the padlock, reinforcing the fairness of the effect.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Close-up performers who want an interactive routine
  • Magicians who enjoy audience participation
  • Those looking for a portable, easy-to-carry effect
  • Performers who like tricks with a strong psychological hook (such as locking borrowed money)

Difficulty

The Lucky Key is easy to perform, nearly self-working. The method is simple, but the presentation can be customized for different audiences. The tutorial covers multiple performance ideas, including themed presentations (e.g., Christmas songs on key tags).

What Magicians Say

Alex Kirk from Monster Magic Shop praises the Lucky Key for its deceptive simplicity and audience engagement:

"The freedom of choice makes it so fooling... they can pick any key, try any key, and it’s as clean as can be."

He also highlights the money hook as a strong presentation angle:

"The hook of money or something valuable being able to win it... is a lovely, lovely hook."

The trick’s portability and interactive nature make it a favorite for close-up and social settings. Kirk notes that it has been one of his go-to tricks for over 30 years, proving its lasting appeal.

The Lucky Key is a reliable, engaging trick that works well for both beginners and experienced magicians. Its simplicity and strong audience impact make it a worthwhile addition to any performer’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Lucky Key

Alex Kirk says...

The freedom of choice makes it engaging, and the money hook (locking a borrowed bill inside) adds stakes. [...] Use themed tags (e.g., Christmas songs) for interactive presentations.

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