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Strike Double Lift

The Strike Double Lift is a fundamental card sleight that creates the illusion of lifting a single card while secretly lifting two. This versatile move is essential for a wide range of card tricks, including color changes, controls, and more. It's a must-learn for magicians at any level, especially those interested in close-up card magic. The technique involves subtle finger movements and requires practice to master the feel of detecting and controlling two cards as one.

Key features

  • Creates the illusion of lifting a single card while secretly lifting two

  • Versatile for use in color changes, controls, and more

  • Requires practice to master the subtle finger movements and feel

  • Foundational technique for close-up card magic

Pros

  • Versatile and foundational for many card tricks

  • Detailed tutorials available for learning the technique

  • Can be adapted to suit personal style and performance environment

Cons

  • Requires significant practice to master

  • Subtle finger movements may be challenging for beginners

Effect

The Strike Double Lift makes it appear as though the magician turns over a single card from the top of the deck. In reality, two cards are lifted and displayed as one, creating a convincing illusion. This sleight is often used to hide a card’s true position, set up color changes, or control a card secretly during a routine.

Full Details

The Strike Double Lift relies on precise finger positioning and smooth execution. The mechanics grip is commonly used, with a slight bevel to help detect two cards by feel. The left thumb pushes the top cards while the middle finger helps compact them. The right fourth finger pulls up slightly to assist in the lift. Continuous motion ensures the move looks natural.

This technique is versatile, working in routines where a card needs to be secretly controlled or displayed as a single card. It is a foundational move in card magic, often used in color changes, controls, and false displays.

Who Should Consider the Trick

The Strike Double Lift is essential for card magicians at any level. Beginners will find it a fundamental skill to build upon, while advanced performers can refine their technique for smoother execution. It is particularly useful for those who perform card tricks requiring hidden card controls or deceptive displays.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Strike Double Lift requires practice to master. The hardest part is detecting two cards by feel and keeping them aligned during the lift. Muscle memory is key, as the move relies on subtle finger movements. Beginners may need time to develop consistency, but with repetition, the technique becomes reliable.

What Magicians Say

Profrt emphasizes the importance of the anchor position and continuous motion for smooth execution. They note that while their technique isn’t perfect, their approach has been refined over decades of practice.

ReedFerry considers the Strike Double Lift his go-to double lift, highlighting its reliability in performance. He references it as a key technique in his routines.

AMillionCardTricks stresses the importance of the mechanics grip and bevel for detecting two cards. They call it a must-learn move for beginners due to its versatility in card magic.

The consensus among magicians is that the Strike Double Lift is a foundational technique worth mastering for its wide range of applications in card magic.

What people are saying about Strike Double Lift

AMillionCardTricks says...

The strike double lift is versatile, useful for color changes, controls, and more. [...] Practice is essential to master the feel of detecting two cards.

profrt says...

The Strike Double Lift is a fundamental card sleight that creates the illusion of lifting a single card while secretly lifting two. [...] Continuous motion is key for a smooth execution.

ReidFerry says...

Reed considers this his go-to double lift and references a tutorial on his channel.

Tutorial videos