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Swivel Cut Control by Alex Elmsley and John Bannon

Created by: Alex Elmsley, John Bannon

The Swivel Cut Control is a streamlined version of the classic 'Sandwich' trick, where a spectator's selected card is magically found sandwiched between two face cards (like Jacks, Queens, or Jokers) in the deck. This close-up card magic trick simplifies the original method by Alex Elmsley, using a clever switch inspired by John Bannon's techniques. The trick involves openly removing two face cards, performing a subtle switch with a thumb break and swivel cut control to secretly position the selected card between them, and then revealing the card in a surprising and direct manner.

Key features

  • Simplified handling compared to the original Elmsley method

  • Uses a thumb break and swivel cut control for deception

  • Works with any deck and is highly practical for performances

  • Avoids complex finger work, making it accessible to more magicians

  • Performance tips included for optimal execution

Pros

  • More economical and easier to execute than the original method

  • Direct and impressive effect that's easy to follow for spectators

  • Versatile in terms of the face cards used (Jacks, Queens, Jokers)

  • Includes practical advice for performance to enhance deception

Cons

  • Requires practice to master the swivel cut control and thumb break

  • Not suitable for beginners without prior card handling experience

Effect

The Swivel Cut Control creates the illusion that a spectator's freely selected card is lost in the deck, only to magically appear sandwiched between two face-up cards (such as Jacks, Queens, or Jokers). The magician openly removes two face cards, cuts the deck, and reveals the chosen card between them in a direct and surprising manner.

Full Details

The trick begins with a spectator selecting a card, which is then lost in the deck. The magician removes two face-up cards (avoiding Aces for better deception) and announces they will be cut into the middle. Using a thumb break and the Swivel Cut Control, the selected card is secretly positioned between the face cards while maintaining the appearance of a fair shuffle.

Key moves include:

  • A switch that replaces complex finger work with a more streamlined method.
  • A thumb break to control card positions.
  • The Swivel Cut Control to secretly bring the selected card to the bottom before the final reveal.

The method simplifies the original Elmsley handling by using John Bannon's approach, reducing unnecessary movement and increasing deception.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for:

  • Magicians who want a direct and visual sandwich effect.
  • Performers looking for a method that is easier than the original Elmsley version.
  • Those comfortable with basic card controls like the thumb break and swivel cut.

Difficulty

The Swivel Cut Control is intermediate in difficulty. It requires:

  • Familiarity with thumb breaks and basic card controls.
  • Practice to execute the swivel cut smoothly.
  • Confidence in handling misdirection during the switch.

SeanDevine notes that Bannon's method is "a lot easier and more economical" compared to the original Elmsley handling, making it more accessible for everyday performers.

What Magicians Say

SeanDevine praises the method, stating, "I prefer John Bannon's move over that one if I'm just being honest." He highlights the efficiency of the technique, emphasizing that less movement leads to better deception. He also recommends using court cards or Jokers instead of Aces for a more natural presentation.

The trick is described as "very direct" and suitable for any deck, making it a practical choice for impromptu performances.

What people are saying about Swivel Cut Control

SeanDevine says...

I prefer John Bannon's move over that one if I'm just being honest. [...] This is very direct, that's what I love about it you can use it with any deck anytime anywhere type of trick.

Tutorial videos