Sleightful logoSleightful

Plucking Speed

Plucking Speed is a captivating card trick that combines rapid card plucking with a clever mathematical reveal. The magician starts by ensuring fairness, allowing the spectator to call 'stop' during a shuffle and freely point to any card. The trick then transitions into a high-speed plucking moment, where the magician attempts to catch the spectator's chosen card with just two fingers. The climax involves a dual reveal: first, a playful 'miss' where the magician claims to have caught two cards, followed by a surprising mathematical coincidence that ties the card's position in the deck to its identity. This trick is perfect for close-up magic performances, offering both spectacle and puzzle elements that engage and astonish the audience.

Key features

  • Combines plucking speed with a mathematical reveal for a surprising climax

  • Emphasizes fairness early on to build spectator trust

  • Uses playful banter and misdirection to enhance the performance

  • Suitable for close-up magic performances

  • Requires practice to master the plucking speed and timing

Pros

  • Engages the audience with a mix of speed and puzzle

  • Builds trust through an initial fair selection process

  • Memorable climax with a mathematical kicker

  • Versatile for various performance settings

Cons

  • Requires precise timing and practice to execute smoothly

  • The mathematical reveal may need adaptation for different audiences

Effect

The Plucking Speed trick creates a strong impression of fairness and impossibility. A spectator freely selects a card from a shuffled deck. The magician then attempts to pluck the chosen card from the deck with just two fingers, appearing to fail at first by catching two cards. The climax reveals that the spectator's card is the 26th card in the deck, with the magician playfully connecting the number 26 to the card's identity.

Full details

The trick begins with a fair selection process. The spectator calls "stop" during a shuffle and points to any card. The magician emphasizes that the choice is completely free. After the card is noted, the magician shuffles again and attempts to pluck the card from the deck at high speed. The initial "miss" (showing two cards) lowers expectations before the final reveal.

The spectator's card is found at the 26th position in the deck. The magician humorously links the number 26 to the card's value, enhancing the surprise. The routine combines speed, humor, and a mathematical coincidence for a strong finish.

Who should consider the trick

This trick suits magicians who enjoy interactive performances with spectators. It works well for close-up or casual settings where humor and engagement are key. Those who like combining mathematical principles with quick, visual moments will find this trick appealing.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires smooth handling of the deck and confident execution of the plucking motion. The performer must also manage audience interaction well, balancing speed with playful banter. The mathematical reveal is straightforward but benefits from strong presentation.

What magicians say

VanishingIncMagic highlights the fairness of the selection process, calling it "as fair as it gets." They note the plucking speed as a standout feature, joking that the spectator might be "slightly annoyed but very impressed." The dual reveal structure—first a "miss," then the mathematical kicker—is praised for building suspense.

The performance tips emphasize pacing and humor. The magician uses phrases like "I’m furious" and "you’re going to love this" to keep the mood light. The initial failed pluck is described as a smart way to lower expectations before the final surprise.

The routine is called "a great example of blending spectacle with puzzle," making it memorable for audiences. The combination of speed, psychology, and a clever mathematical finish makes Plucking Speed a strong addition to a magician's repertoire.

What people are saying about Plucking Speed

VanishingIncMagic says...

The plucking speed is highlighted as a key feature, with the magician humorously acknowledging the spectator's potential annoyance at its effectiveness. [...] This routine is a great example of blending spectacle (the plucking speed) with puzzle (the positional reveal).

Performance videos