Predator Pack by R. Paul Wilson

Effect

The Predator Pack is a deck-based magic trick where a spectator freely names any playing card. The magician then reveals that the chosen card is written on the backs of three advertising cards or jokers, creating a strong moment of surprise. The effect appears completely fair, with no forced choices or suspicious moves.

Full details

The Predator Pack is a gimmicked deck designed by R. Paul Wilson, known for his deceptive and practical magic. The deck is ready to use immediately, with pre-printed words on certain cards to facilitate the effect. The trick requires no sleight of hand, making it accessible to performers of all skill levels. The deck is non-examinable, meaning spectators cannot closely inspect the cards after the reveal. The method is based on classic principles like Orville Meyer’s Predicto Pack and Paul Harris’ Anything Deck, but with updated handling for modern performances.

Who should consider the trick

The Predator Pack is ideal for magicians who want a strong, self-working card trick that plays well in casual or street magic settings. It suits performers who prefer minimal sleight of hand but still want a high-impact effect. Those who enjoy gambling-themed presentations or mentalism will find it particularly useful.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is rated as easy to perform. Since it requires no sleight of hand, beginners can execute it confidently. The included instructional material provides clear guidance on setup and performance, ensuring a smooth experience.

What magicians say

Magic Orthodoxy praises the Predator Pack for its accessibility and the ability to perform it with a standard deck of cards rather than a wallet. They highlight its deceptive nature and strong audience reactions.

Magic-TV describes it as "simple, self-working, and highly effective," comparing it favorably to the Invisible Deck.

ChampionMagic notes that the trick gets strong reactions in live performances and appreciates its immediate usability. They mention that the deck is ready to use right out of the box, making it practical for quick setups.

Monster Magic Shop’s Alex Kirk calls it a clever adaptation of classic plots, though he suggests skipping the guarantee card for a cleaner presentation. He recommends it as an opener but notes the deck cannot be reused for other tricks.

Penguin Magic highlights R. Paul Wilson’s reputation for deceptive magic, suggesting the Predator Pack is designed for real-world performance conditions.

Overall, reviewers agree that the Predator Pack is a powerful, easy-to-perform trick with strong audience impact.