Smash and Stab by Simon Lipkin

Smash & Stab: A Detailed Analysis for Magicians

Here’s a breakdown of the “Smash & Stab” trick, designed to help you assess whether it’s a suitable addition to your repertoire.

Effect: What the Trick Looks Like

The “Smash & Stab” trick presents a dramatic and seemingly dangerous illusion. A magician holds four identical discs, three of which are cleverly disguised. The audience is invited to select one of the discs, and the magician then dramatically smashes their hand down on the chosen disc, revealing a hidden, sharp bullet beneath. The effect relies heavily on suspense, audience participation, and a carefully constructed narrative of risk. The visual impact is significant, creating a memorable and potentially thrilling moment for the audience.

Full Details

This trick, popularized by Wayne Dobson, has a surprisingly complex history. It’s evolved over time, with variations incorporating different prop designs and presentation styles. The core concept remains consistent: a concealed bullet is hidden within one of the discs, and the audience’s selection determines whether the magician successfully avoids injury.

The current iteration, as demonstrated by Simon Lipkin in his “Pierced” routine, utilizes a set of five custom-made pins. Three of these pins are gimmicked – they retract to reveal a non-threatening surface. One pin contains a genuine, sharp bullet, and the fifth pin is a prop used to create the illusion of a choice. The pins are manufactured by a film special effects company, ensuring a high level of quality and durability.

The trick’s success hinges on several key elements:

• Audience Participation: The audience’s involvement is crucial. The selection process adds a layer of unpredictability and suspense.
• Psychological Suggestion: Lipkin employs psychological techniques, referencing stories of human resilience and the willingness to endure pain, to heighten the perceived risk.
• Misdirection: The magician skillfully directs the audience’s attention, focusing on the potential danger while subtly controlling the presentation.
• Presentation: Lipkin’s performance style is key. He maintains a serious tone, emphasizing the importance of concentration and careful handling.

As Craig Petty notes, the trick’s compact size makes it ideal for close-up performances, while its inherent danger adds excitement for audiences. He compares it to stage versions like “Nailed It” and “The Pain Game,” highlighting the unique presentation of the close-up version.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is best suited for magicians with a strong stage presence and an ability to engage an audience. It’s particularly well-suited for performers who enjoy incorporating elements of risk and suspense into their routines.

Specifically, this trick would be a good fit for:

• Close-up magicians: The compact size and ability to perform in a small space make it ideal for table-hopping or restaurant magic.
• Magicians who enjoy audience interaction: The audience’s participation is central to the effect’s success.
• Magicians who appreciate a visually dramatic effect: The hidden bullet and the potential for a startling reveal create a memorable moment.

However, this trick is not recommended for:

• Beginner magicians: The trick requires careful handling and a solid understanding of presentation techniques.
• Magicians who are uncomfortable with risk: The potential for injury (though minimal with proper handling) is a significant factor.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The “Smash & Stab” trick is considered moderately difficult to perform consistently. While the basic concept is relatively simple, mastering the presentation and ensuring a smooth, safe performance requires practice and attention to detail.

Here’s a breakdown of the key challenges:

• Pin Handling: The magician must be able to handle the pins with confidence and precision, avoiding any accidental contact with the sharp bullet.
• Audience Management: The magician needs to effectively guide the audience’s selection process, ensuring that the chosen pin is the one with the bullet.
• Presentation: Maintaining a serious and engaging tone throughout the routine is crucial for building suspense and creating a memorable experience.
• Psychological Awareness: The magician must be aware of the audience’s perceptions and subtly manipulate their attention to enhance the effect.

As magician Craig Petty points out, the trick relies heavily on the audience's cooperation, and variations in audience behavior can impact the routine's effectiveness. He notes that the method is simple to understand but difficult to unsee once it's been revealed.

What Magicians Say

Here’s a summary of what magicians have said about the trick:

• Wayne Dobson: (As seen in the video) Dobson emphasizes the high-energy and humorous interaction with the audience, highlighting the suspense and unpredictability of the effect. He acknowledges the reliance on audience cooperation but believes the overall experience is engaging and memorable.
• Simon Lipkin: Lipkin describes “Pierced” as a “game-changer” and a “masterpiece,” praising the quality of the props and the potential for varied performance options. He stresses the importance of careful handling and a serious presentation. He also notes the trick’s compact size and suitability for close-up performances.
• Magic-TV Reviewer: The reviewer highlights the engaging audience participation and high suspense, while also noting the potential for variation in audience cooperation.
• AlakazamMagicUK: This reviewer emphasizes the significant investment required to produce the trick, highlighting the quality of the props and the professional-grade nature of the manufacturing.