Pro Caps by Lloyd Barnes

Effect

Pro Caps is a modern take on the classic Nickels to Dimes effect, but with a key difference. Instead of using traditional coin gimmicks, the trick uses what appears to be an ordinary bottle cap. The magician can make coins vanish, reappear, or transpose inside the cap, creating a deceptive and organic-looking routine. The effect blends everyday objects with impossible transformations, making it more natural and less suspicious than older versions of the trick.

Full Details

Pro Caps includes two bottle caps—one red Coca-Cola style and one blue water-style—along with a redesigned "bang ring" that mimics a safety seal. The set also comes with a 2.5+ hour tutorial by Craig Petty, featuring multiple routines. One highlighted routine, Torn Transpo, combines elements of Angle Z and Pro Caps for a unique transposition effect.

The caps are designed to look like real bottle caps, solving the problem of older versions that looked too much like magic props. However, there are some limitations. The caps have a visible seam at the base, which some spectators might notice. The bang ring requires forceful taps to release coins, which can feel unnatural. Additionally, the silver gimmick does not perfectly match U.S. quarters, creating a slight visual mismatch.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Pro Caps is ideal for magicians who want a fresh take on coin magic with an organic, everyday object. It works well for performers who enjoy gimmicked coin routines but want something that looks less suspicious. Those who perform in casual settings, like bars or restaurants, may find the bottle cap premise especially fitting.

Magicians who prefer classic Nickels to Dimes without the bottle-cap disguise might not find this necessary. Performers who are sensitive to angle management or minor prop imperfections may also want to consider the drawbacks before purchasing.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The difficulty level varies depending on the routine. Some effects are nearly angle-proof, while others require careful audience management. The included tutorial by Craig Petty provides detailed instructions, making it accessible for intermediate to advanced magicians. Beginners may need extra practice to handle the angle sensitivity and the mechanics of the bang ring.

What Magicians Say

• Lloyd Barnes (Creator): Describes Pro Caps as a modern upgrade to a classic prop, emphasizing its natural appearance and potential to become a staple in routines.
• Tyler Lunsford: Praises the organic feel of the bottle cap but notes the visible seam and angle sensitivity as drawbacks. He calls it a "solid but situational" tool.
• Cavan Booth: Includes Pro Caps in his ultra-compact magic kit, calling it a favorite gimmick and a "Supernatural" effect.
• Craig Petty (Tutorial Instructor): Demonstrates multiple routines in the tutorial, suggesting UK 10p coins for a better visual match than U.S. quarters.

Overall, Pro Caps is seen as a creative and practical update to a classic effect, though some compromises exist in its execution.