Modified Arthur Buckley Peek by Arthur Buckley and Biz (Big Blind Media)

Effect

The Modified Arthur Buckley Peek allows a magician to secretly view a spectator's selected card while appearing to handle the deck naturally. The audience sees the magician casually square or adjust the deck, unaware that the performer has gained knowledge of the chosen card. The peek is hidden within an ordinary action, making it deceptive and practical for various card routines.

Full Details

The Modified Arthur Buckley Peek is an improvement on the original Buckley spread peek. The key refinement involves using the index finger to block the upper half of the card while subtly buckling the lower corner. This prevents the peek from being visible from the front, as only the bottom of the card bends slightly. The magician can glimpse the index of the card before smoothly unbending it and continuing with the routine.

This method is particularly effective because it integrates seamlessly into standard deck handling. The peek can be executed while squaring the deck, transferring it to a spectator, or during a casual gesture. Unlike some peeks that require exaggerated movements, this version remains subtle and well-concealed.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This peek is ideal for magicians who frequently perform card magic and need a reliable way to gather information without detection. It suits those who prefer subtlety over bold moves and appreciate techniques that blend into natural actions. If you perform routines where secretly knowing a card is useful—such as mentalism effects, ACAAN, or prediction tricks—this peek is a valuable addition.

Difficulty

The Modified Arthur Buckley Peek requires moderate practice to execute smoothly. The main challenges are:

• Positioning the index finger correctly to block the upper half of the card.
• Buckling the card just enough to see the index without making the movement obvious.
• Maintaining a relaxed handling style to avoid suspicion.

While not the easiest peek to learn, it becomes natural with repetition. Magicians familiar with card controls and basic peeking techniques will find it easier to adapt.

What Magicians Say

BigBlindMedia describes this as a "very invisible way of peeking at a playing card" and highlights its practicality. The modification—using the index finger to conceal the bend—makes it more deceptive than the original method. The reviewer notes that while the original Buckley peek could sometimes be spotted from the front, this version keeps the movement hidden.

The peek is praised for its speed and versatility, allowing magicians to gather information quickly and integrate it into various routines. As BigBlindMedia explains, "The more seamlessly a peek is integrated, the less likely it is to be detected." This peek exemplifies that principle, making it a strong choice for performers who value subtlety.