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Snap Deal

Snap Deal is a card magic technique used in close-up magic where the magician appears to deal cards from the top of the deck with a distinctive snapping motion. To spectators, it looks like a regular deal but with added theatrical flair. However, this technique has become controversial among magicians due to concerns about its practicality and deception. Buyers should know this is not a complete trick but rather a sleight/move that can be incorporated into card routines, and it's primarily discussed in educational contexts rather than as a standalone product.

Key features

  • Card magic technique involving a snapping motion during the deal

  • Designed for close-up magic performances

  • Controversial among magicians regarding its practicality

  • Not a complete trick but a move to incorporate into routines

  • Discussed in educational magic content rather than sold as standalone product

Pros

  • Visually appealing with theatrical flair

  • Can add dramatic effect to card routines

Cons

  • Considered too flashy and draws unnecessary attention

  • May arouse suspicion in audiences by highlighting the method

  • Not as deceptive as more natural dealing techniques

  • Criticized for breaking fundamental magic principles

Effect

The Snap Deal is a card sleight. It looks like a normal card deal from the top of the deck. The magician deals a card to the table. To the audience, it appears a single card is cleanly dealt. The move can be used to secretly control or switch a card during a routine.

Full details

The Snap Deal is a specific technique for dealing a card. It involves a distinct finger motion and sound. The action produces an audible snap. The move is often learned from instructional material. It is designed to simulate a fair deal while executing a secret action. Magicians use it in routines where a card needs to be controlled or changed without detection. The method relies on precise finger placement and timing.

Who should consider the trick

The Snap Deal may interest magicians who enjoy learning and practicing precise sleight of hand. It suits performers who value moves with a distinct visual and auditory style. It is for those building a repertoire of advanced card techniques. Magicians focused on technical skill development might consider it. Performers who work in quiet, close-up settings where the sound can be part of the presentation may find it useful.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Snap Deal is considered a difficult move to perform well. It requires dedicated practice to master the finger mechanics. The action must look natural while hiding the secret move. Achieving a consistent snap sound without awkward motion takes time. Proper angle management is important. It is not recommended for beginners. Intermediate to advanced card workers will need to invest significant practice to make the move deceptive.

What magicians say

Reviewers have shared strong opinions on the Snap Deal. PigCake directly criticizes the move. He states, "The Snap Deal is criticized for being too flashy and drawing unnecessary attention, which can arouse suspicion in audiences." He recommends avoiding it in favor of more natural techniques. PigCake promotes an alternative principle, saying magicians should choose methods that are "invisible and feel like genuine actions."

Craig Petty also referenced the Snap Deal in a community Q&A. He discussed it within a broader conversation about performance advice and curating a setlist. His mention suggests it is a known technique among practicing magicians, often discussed for its practicality and application in routines.

The consensus from these reviews indicates the Snap Deal is a controversial move. Some magicians find it too overt for practical use, while others may incorporate it as a specialized technique within a larger performance framework.

What people are saying about Snap Deal

Craig Petty says...

The value lies not just in the specific answers—like the snap deal technique for switching a card or his thoughts on using running music in a show—but in the overall philosophy of engaging authentically with both the art and the community.

PigCake says...

PigCake's primary issue with the Snap Deal is its lack of deception under real-world performance conditions. He feels the move is too flashy and draws unnecessary attention to the action of dealing, which can arouse suspicion in an audience.

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