Swiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien

Effect

The Swiss Key is a magic gimmick that creates the illusion of a key penetrating through a borrowed bill or piece of paper. The key visibly pushes through the center of the folded bill, often accompanied by a realistic tearing sound. The performer then rips the key out, and the bill is shown to be completely restored and unharmed. This is the primary effect, but the gimmick enables several other routines, including making the key vanish, appear to bend, or even defy gravity by balancing impossibly.

Full details

The Swiss Key is a collaborative creation by magicians Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien. It is a precision-made gimmick crafted using CNC technology, resulting in a very thin profile of only 2.1mm. The key is designed to look and feel like a real, everyday key, making the gimmick difficult to detect even upon close inspection. The package includes a detailed online tutorial, approximately one hour long, taught by Nicholas Lawrence. This tutorial covers the main bill penetration effect along with multiple bonus routines. These additional effects include a signed coin to anywhere, a vanishing key, a gravity defiance routine, and a visual zigzag illusion. The gimmick is self-contained, requiring no additional setup or refills, which makes it suitable for impromptu performances.

Who should consider the trick

The Swiss Key is an excellent choice for magicians who enjoy performing impromptu, visual, and interactive magic. It is ideal for workers and street magicians who need a versatile tool they can carry every day. As Roo from RoosReviews states, it is a "worker’s piece" that can be expanded into a full routine. Magicians who appreciate high-quality, durable props that can withstand regular use will find value in this product. It is also well-suited for performers looking for a modern take on classic penetration plots.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The Swiss Key requires practice to perform smoothly. While the gimmick does much of the work, achieving a natural and convincing performance demands dedication. Alexis from AlexisReviews rates the difficulty as 3 out of 4 hearts, indicating it is not for absolute beginners. The main bill penetration effect has some angle sensitivity, meaning performers must be mindful of their audience's position. However, the included tutorial is praised for its clarity. Fiddlin' Johnny notes that the instructions are detailed, and David from Magic Orthodoxy confirms that Nicholas Lawrence provides clear guidance, making the learning process manageable for those willing to put in the time.

What magicians say

Magicians consistently praise the Swiss Key for its versatility and build quality. Fiddlin' Johnny is impressed by its durability, stating it is "designed to last a lifetime." Roo calls it "the coolest key gimmick" he has ever seen, comparing it to a James Bond gadget. He highlights the signed coin routine as a particular standout. Alex Kirk from Monster Magic Shop describes the craftsmanship as "genius," noting the gimmick is nearly undetectable. David from Magic Orthodoxy emphasizes its creativity, calling it a "completely original style of thought trick." A minor point mentioned by some reviewers, like Roo, is that an internal foam piece can peel away after extended use, but this is not seen as a major flaw. The general consensus is that the Swiss Key is a strong, versatile tool for a working magician's repertoire.