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Precision Shot

Precision Shot is a visually striking card trick where a spectator’s randomly selected card appears to be 'shot' precisely between two Aces (or Jokers) in the deck. This close-up magic trick relies on a combination of riffle force, double lift, and clever card placement to create a convincing illusion of skill. The trick is fast, visual, and examinable, with no duplicate cards left in the deck, making it perfect for performers looking for a quick, pro-level trick with minimal sleight-heavy moves. It works with any deck, even borrowed ones, and is suitable for street magic or casual settings.

Key features

  • Uses two Aces or Jokers as visual markers

  • Relies on a riffle force to control the spectator’s selection

  • Incorporates a subtle double lift and clever card placement

  • Works with any deck, even borrowed ones

  • Fast, visual, and examinable with no duplicate cards left in the deck

  • Ideal for intermediate magicians and beginners looking to refine their practical repertoire

Pros

  • Fast and visually impressive

  • Minimal setup required

  • Works with any deck

  • No duplicate cards left in the deck

  • Suitable for street magic or casual settings

Cons

  • Assumes familiarity with basic forces and double lifts

  • May require practice to perfect the timing and misdirection

Effect

Precision Shot is a card trick where a spectator's freely selected card appears to magically "shoot" between two marker cards, usually Aces or Kings. The performer shows two Aces or Kings, spreads the deck, and asks the spectator to pick a card. After the selection, the performer places the card between the two markers. With a quick motion, the deck is spread again, revealing the chosen card cleanly lodged between the two Aces or Kings. The effect is visual, fast, and leaves no duplicates behind.

Full details

Precision Shot uses a combination of sleight of hand and psychological techniques to create the illusion. The trick relies on a riffle force to control the spectator's selection, making them believe they have a free choice. A double lift is used to conceal the true identity of the card during the reveal. The performer also employs a side jog and spread control to hide the mechanics of the trick. The final reveal is framed as a precise, risky move, enhancing the drama.

The trick works with any deck, including borrowed ones, and does not require gimmicks. Some variations use two red Aces or two black Kings as markers. The method is adaptable, allowing performers to adjust pacing and presentation for different audiences.

Who should consider the trick

Precision Shot is ideal for intermediate magicians familiar with basic forces and double lifts. It suits performers who want a quick, visual trick that looks more complex than it is. The trick works well in casual settings, street magic, or as an opener in a card routine. Beginners can learn it with practice, but some foundational card handling is recommended.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick requires proficiency in a few key techniques:

  • Riffle force (to control the selection)
  • Double lift (to conceal the card during the reveal)
  • Side jog and spread control (to hide the setup)

If a performer is comfortable with these moves, Precision Shot is straightforward to execute. The difficulty lies in timing and misdirection rather than complex sleights. AMillionCardTricks notes that the trick is "fast, visual, and examinable," making it accessible with practice.

What magicians say

AMillionCardTricks highlights the trick's practicality, calling it "fast, visual, and examinable." They praise the illusion of skill it creates, making the performer appear highly proficient with minimal effort. The tutorial emphasizes pacing and natural angles to sell the effect convincingly.

Another review mentions that Precision Shot is "ideal for beginners or performers seeking a low-prep, high-impact trick." The trick's reliance on classic principles like the double lift makes it adaptable, while the top-shot framing gives it a modern feel.

Both reviewers agree that Precision Shot is a strong addition to any card magician's repertoire, offering a balance of visual appeal and practical methodology.

What people are saying about Precision Shot

AMillionCardTricks says...

The creator praises this trick for being fast, visual, and examinable—no duplicate cards are left in the deck. While the method is straightforward, the misdirection and timing sell the effect. Perfect for performers who want a quick, pro-level trick with minimal sleight-heavy moves.

Tutorial videos