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Never Give a Sucker an Even Break by Matt McGurk

Created by: Matt McGurk

Never Give a Sucker an Even Break is a close-up card magic routine that unfolds in five phases, building to a surprise ending. Using a borrowed, shuffled deck, the magician performs an impromptu sequence that includes an easy double lift, an optical reverse for a visual color change, a two-card transposition, and a Color Monte-style finish. This trick is designed to create a compelling narrative with smooth transitions, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals. Buyers should note that it emphasizes presentation and pacing for maximum audience impact, and it's a complete routine ready for performance.

Key features

  • Five-phase routine that builds to a surprise ending

  • Uses a borrowed, shuffled deck for impromptu performance

  • Suitable for beginners and professionals

  • Focuses on smooth transitions and logical narrative

  • Emphasizes presentation and pacing for maximum impact

Pros

  • Highly deceptive with a powerful payoff

  • Accessible for various skill levels

  • Practical and impromptu with borrowed decks

  • Comes with a complete, ready-to-perform routine

Cons

  • May require practice to master smooth transitions

  • Relies heavily on presentation for full effect

Effect

The audience sees a sequence of card transformations and transpositions using three cards. A spectator chooses a card, and the magician appears to lose track of it multiple times. Each phase builds on the last, creating a story of deception and surprise. The routine ends with a final, unexpected revelation that leaves the audience amazed.

Full details

Never Give a Sucker an Even Break is a five-phase card routine. It uses a borrowed and shuffled deck, making it an impromptu performance. The routine is structured as a progressive sequence. Each phase sets up the next one logically. The method includes a very easy double lift, an optical reverse move for a visual change, a two-card transposition, and a finish similar to a Color Monte effect. The entire routine focuses on smooth transitions and a compelling narrative.

Who should consider the trick

This trick is suitable for beginners and professional magicians. Beginners will find the techniques manageable. Professionals can use the routine in their shows. It is ideal for performers who want a strong, impromptu card routine that tells a story.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The difficulty level is moderate. The moves are taught with an emphasis on ease and deception. Matt McGurk states the double lift is designed to be the world's easiest. Practice is needed to make the transitions between phases feel natural. The routine is technically manageable for most skill levels.

What magicians say

Matt McGurk says he has used this routine in his professional shows for over ten years. He loves its deceptive simplicity and powerful payoff. He advises performers to practice the transitions until they feel unhurried. He also emphasizes treating each phase as a mini-revelation to build audience investment. The scripting is engaging and turns the trick into a story.

What people are saying about Never Give a Sucker an Even Break

Matt McGurk says...

This tutorial provides a complete, ready-to-perform routine that is both technically manageable and highly deceptive. Matt McGurk's approach focuses on strong foundational principles and clear, methodical teaching, making it an excellent resource for magicians looking to add a classic plot with a modern, professional presentation to their repertoire.

Tutorial videos