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The Mad Holdout by Daniel Madison and Eoin O'Hare

Created by: Daniel Madison, Eoin O'Hare

The Mad Holdout is a close-up card magic utility device designed for seamless and deceptive deck switching at the card table. Spectators see the magician perform with a deck of cards, and at a crucial moment, the entire deck is secretly swapped for a pre-arranged or gimmicked one, all while the deck remains in full view before and after the switch. This modern holdout device, created by Daniel Madison and Eoin O'Hare, allows magicians to hold a cold deck hidden just below the table edge, enabling confident switches under seemingly impossible conditions. It's ideal for routines involving stacked decks, gimmicked setups, or climax effects, making it a must-have for serious card workers looking to elevate their table-based performances. Buyers should note that it requires specific setup and is part of a limited production run, encouraging quick purchases.

Key features

  • Engineered for seamless deck switching at the card table

  • Holds a full deck in various hidden positions, adjustable to multiple angles and heights

  • Compatible with techniques like T.U.T. and other deck switches from the included masterclass

  • Includes the physical device, a workshop video, a deck switch masterclass, and two custom Mad playing card decks

  • Designed as a professional tool to replace improvised holdout methods, reducing risk of exposure

Pros

  • Provides a secure and reliable way to hold a cold deck for switches

  • Versatile design allows customization for different performance setups

  • Comprehensive package includes tutorials and decks for immediate use

  • Streamlines the transition into climax effects without suspicious handling

Cons

  • Requires specific setup and is not purely sleight-based, which may limit spontaneity

  • Limited production run may make it difficult to acquire after initial stock sells out

Effect

The Mad Holdout makes a deck switch look completely natural. The magician can exchange one deck for another while both decks appear to be in full view. The switch happens quickly and without any suspicious movements. The audience sees the magician using a normal deck of cards. They do not see the secret device or the second deck.

Full details

The Mad Holdout is a physical device designed by Daniel Madison and Eoin O'Hare. It is a cold deck holdout. This means it holds a pre-arranged deck secretly under the table edge. The device is adjustable. It can hold a deck at many different angles and heights. This allows a magician to position the hidden deck perfectly for a switch.

Each purchase includes the physical Mad Holdout device. It also comes with two Mad playing card decks in pink and blue. Buyers receive The Mad Holdout Workshop, a video tutorial on using the device. They also get The Deck Switch Masterclass, a full course on deck switching techniques. The device is compatible with known switches like the T.U.T. It is a modern tool based on classic magic principles.

Who should consider the trick

The Mad Holdout is for magicians who perform seated card magic at a table. It is ideal for performers who use stacked decks or gimmicked decks in their routines. This device helps magicians who want a reliable method for deck switching. It is made for working performers who need a clean transition into their strongest effects. If you perform set pieces that require a deck switch, this tool is for you.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Using The Mad Holdout requires a specific setup. It is a physical gimmick, not a pure sleight of hand technique. The device itself is designed for ease of use. Daniel Madison states it makes deck switching "significantly easier." The included workshop and masterclass provide detailed instruction. Proper practice is needed to integrate the device smoothly into a performance. The difficulty lies in the setup and timing, not in complex finger movements.

What magicians say

Daniel Madison promotes The Mad Holdout as a unique solution. He says it solves the problem of "holding out a cold deck after a switch." He describes it as a "professional tool" and an "upgrade over improvised methods." Madison emphasizes that the device provides a "confident and secure way" to hold a deck, reducing the risk of exposure. He notes its versatility, stating it can be adjusted to "virtually any angle and height." The creators express high enthusiasm for the collaborative result, with Madison signing off with "MAD LOVE."

What people are saying about The Mad Holdout

Daniel Madison says...

The MAD HOLDOUT is a cold deck holdout device for secret deck switching, holding a full deck in various positions hidden from participants. It's a significant upgrade over improvised methods, providing a confident and secure way to execute switches.

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