Sleightful logoSleightful

Riffle Force with a Stripper Deck

The Riffle Force with a Stripper Deck is a close-up card magic trick that allows the magician to force a specific card on a spectator with absolute conviction. By using a stripper deck (a deck with tapered edges), the magician can riffle through the cards and stop precisely at the desired force card, making it appear as though the spectator has freely chosen it. This method is celebrated for its cleanliness and psychological impact, ensuring the spectator believes their choice was entirely their own.

Key features

  • Uses a stripper deck for precise stopping during the riffle

  • Emphasizes psychological impact to ensure spectator conviction

  • Clean and easy execution with minimal sleight of hand required

  • Versatile for various performance contexts

Pros

  • High level of spectator conviction

  • Clean and easy to execute

  • Minimal sleight of hand required

  • Versatile for different performance settings

Cons

  • Requires a stripper deck, which may not be readily available to all magicians

  • Some setup is needed before performing the trick

Effect

The Riffle Force with a Stripper Deck makes a spectator believe they freely chose a card while the magician controls the outcome. The performer riffles the deck, and the spectator says "stop" at any point. The magician lifts the cards at the stopping point, revealing the forced card—such as the Ace of Spades—without any visible manipulation.

Full details

This method uses a stripper deck, a gimmicked deck with tapered edges. A Joker (or any marked card) from the stripper deck is placed in the middle. When the magician riffles the deck, the tapered edge causes the cards to stop automatically at the Joker. The magician lifts the cards cleanly, revealing the forced card above it.

The technique eliminates the need for breaks or complex sleights. The spectator sees a natural riffle and believes they stopped the deck at random. The stripper deck ensures consistency, making the force reliable every time.

Who should consider the trick

Magicians who want a hands-off, convincing force should consider this method. It works well for performers who prefer gimmicks over sleight-heavy techniques. The Riffle Force with a Stripper Deck is ideal for close-up or table performances where cleanliness is important.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The trick is easy to learn. The stripper deck does most of the work, so the magician only needs to riffle smoothly and lift the cards naturally. No advanced sleight of hand is required. Beginners can master it quickly, while experienced magicians can use it as a reliable alternative to traditional riffle forces.

What magicians say

SeanDevine highlights the psychological impact of this force: "A good force is one in which the volunteer 100% believes they had a free choice." He praises the method for its cleanliness, stating, "You just can't get that with a standard riffle force."

The technique is recommended for its reliability and spectator conviction. The use of a stripper deck ensures the force works every time without relying on timing or misdirection. Magicians who prefer gimmicks will find this method efficient and deceptive.

What people are saying about Riffle Force with a Stripper Deck

SeanDevine says...

A good force is one in which the volunteer 100% believes they had a free choice. [...] Using the cleanest method you can achieve that, in this case, I spare no expenses because I'm using a gimmicked card.

Tutorial videos