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Penetration Effect by Josh Burch

Created by: Josh Burch

The Penetration Effect is a captivating close-up magic trick that involves a guitar pick or coin seemingly penetrating through solid objects like coasters, glasses, or even a deck of cards. This trick is part of the Super Picks set by Josh Burch, which includes four custom guitar picks designed for coin magic routines. The effect is versatile, allowing for performances in both close-up and real-world settings, and is particularly appealing to magicians who are also musicians or frequently in musical environments. The trick relies on basic coin magic techniques, making it accessible to performers of various skill levels.

Key features

  • Uses custom guitar picks for a unique twist on classic coin magic

  • Includes an hour-long instructional video featuring Craig Petty

  • Features the signature Penetration Effect among other routines

  • Picks are not gimmicked, ensuring simplicity and portability

  • Best suited for performers who are also musicians

Pros

  • High production value instructional content

  • Versatile and portable for various performance settings

  • Accessible to magicians of all skill levels

  • Creative adaptation of classic coin magic routines

Cons

  • Limited appeal to non-musician magicians

  • Requires basic coin magic techniques to perform

Effect

The Penetration Effect is a visual magic trick where an object, such as a guitar pick or coin, appears to pass through a solid barrier. In one routine, a pick penetrates a coaster and then a glass. Another variation shows the pick moving through a deck of cards to locate a selected card. The effect creates a strong moment of surprise, as the object seems to defy physical laws by moving through solid materials.

Full Details

The Penetration Effect can be performed with different objects, including custom guitar picks or coins. Some versions use a precision-made gimmick crafted from real currency, ensuring reliability during performances. The effect relies on basic sleight-of-hand techniques, such as palming and false transfers, making it adaptable for different props. The routines are designed for close-up or walk-around magic, often incorporating audience interaction to enhance the experience.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick suits magicians who perform close-up or walk-around magic, especially those who want a visual and interactive routine. Musicians may find the guitar pick version appealing, as it blends naturally with their persona. The effect works well for performers who enjoy storytelling, as it can be tied to relatable themes like games or everyday objects.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Penetration Effect is rated as low to moderate in difficulty. It uses foundational coin magic techniques, such as the French drop, making it accessible to beginners with some practice. More advanced versions may require precise handling of gimmicked props, but the basic principles remain straightforward.

What Magicians Say

Magic Orthodoxy notes that the Penetration Effect is a signature routine in the Super Picks set, describing it as "fun and creative." The trick is demonstrated in both close-up and real-world settings, proving its versatility. Penguin Magic highlights the effect as part of their Arcade Coin routine, emphasizing its strong visual impact and reliability in performance. Both reviewers agree that the Penetration Effect is a practical and engaging addition to a magician’s repertoire.

What people are saying about Penetration Effect

magicorthodoxy says...

David believes Josh Burch and Craig Petty have created some fun and creative ways to perform classic copper/silver effects using an everyday item. [...] He emphasizes that the picks are *not* gimmicked, reinforcing their simplicity and portability.

penguinmagictricks5930 says...

The creator loves the **organic pacing** of these routines, often tying them to relatable stories (e.g., college life with laundry and arcade tokens). He stresses the importance of **audience interaction**, like asking spectators to choose between 'laundry or arcade' to personalize the effect.

Review videos

Tutorial videos