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Packet Break by Harry Lorraine

Created by: Harry Lorraine

Packet Break is a close-up card trick where the magician allows a spectator to freely select an Ace from four displayed on the table. After the selection, the magician deals three random cards onto the chosen Ace, then 'loses' the remaining three Aces into the deck. With a snap of the fingers, the three random cards magically transform into the other three Aces, completing the set. This trick is perfect for beginner to intermediate magicians and relies on sleight-of-hand techniques like the Pinky Count, Packet Break, and Ble Grip. The effect is highly deceptive and can be performed with any deck of cards, making it versatile for impromptu performances.

Key features

  • Ideal for high-beginner to low-intermediate magicians

  • No setup required—can be performed with any deck

  • Relies on foundational sleights like the Pinky Count and Packet Break

  • Two possible outcomes ensure flexibility in performance

  • Encourages strong spectator interaction and misdirection

Pros

  • Highly deceptive and visually impressive

  • Versatile for impromptu performances

  • Encourages audience engagement

  • No gimmicks or special cards needed

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the sleight of hand

  • May be challenging for absolute beginners

Effect

The Packet Break trick creates a surprising transformation of cards. A spectator freely selects one Ace from four placed on the table. The magician deals three random cards onto the chosen Ace and loses the other three Aces into the deck. After some shuffling, the three random cards suddenly change into the remaining three Aces, completing the set.

Full Details

The trick uses key sleights like the Pinky Count, Packet Break, and Ble Grip to control the cards. The magician sets up the deck so that the spectator's choice leads to one of two possible outcomes. If the spectator picks the correct Ace, the magician simply reveals the other three Aces. If they pick a different card, the magician secretly moves the Aces into position before the final reveal.

The trick requires handling multiple cards smoothly while maintaining a casual performance. The magician must be comfortable with basic card controls and misdirection to keep the audience from noticing the setup.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best for high-beginner to low-intermediate magicians. It is a good choice for those who already know basic card controls like the Pinky Count and Double Undercut. The trick works well in casual performances where the magician wants a quick, visual transformation effect.

Difficulty

The trick is rated as high-beginner or low-intermediate. The main challenges are:

  • Executing the Pinky Count cleanly.
  • Managing multiple card controls without hesitation.
  • Keeping the handling natural to avoid suspicion.

CardMechanic recommends practicing the Pinky Count separately before attempting the full trick.

What Magicians Say

CardMechanic describes the trick as "simple and deceptive." He notes that while the sleights may seem difficult at first, the effect is worth the effort. He emphasizes the importance of a relaxed performance and strong presentation to sell the illusion.

The trick is based on Harry Lorraine's "To the Point" effect, which is similar to the "Four Jacks Bank Robber" trick. CardMechanic praises its versatility, as it works regardless of which Ace the spectator picks.

Overall, this trick is a solid choice for magicians looking to add a quick, visual card transformation to their routines.

What people are saying about Packet Break

CardMechanic says...

This trick is rated as a high-beginner or low-level intermediate effect, but the deceptive nature makes it well worth the effort. [...] The key is to practice the techniques and develop your own presentation style to captivate audiences.

Tutorial videos