Vernon’s Top Retention by Dai Vernon

Effect

Vernon’s Top Retention makes it appear as though the top card of the deck is cleanly cut into the middle while secretly remaining on top. The magician cuts the deck, seemingly placing the top half beneath the lower half, but the top card is retained in position. To the audience, the card looks lost in the deck, but the magician maintains control.

Full Details

This technique involves cutting the deck while using the thumb to secretly hold back the top card. The right hand lifts the upper portion, but the thumb subtly retains the top card, allowing the rest of the packet to be placed beneath the lower half. The move is smooth and deceptive when performed correctly, making it ideal for controls, color changes, or secret card retention.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Vernon’s Top Retention suits magicians who want a reliable method for controlling a card without complex sleight of hand. It works well for performers who prefer subtle, angle-friendly techniques. Beginners can learn it with practice, while experienced magicians may appreciate its versatility in routines.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The move requires precise thumb pressure and natural hand motion to avoid detection. Biz from Big Blind Media notes that while the mechanics are straightforward, proper execution depends on smooth handling and angle management. With practice, it becomes an invisible addition to a magician’s toolkit.

What Magicians Say

Biz describes Vernon’s Top Retention as "one of the most classic ways" to control a card, praising its effectiveness in both live performances and social media due to its angle-friendly nature. He emphasizes that the move "looks insane on social media with the right angle" and is a "deadly weapon to master" for real-world performances. The technique’s simplicity and deceptive power make it a favorite among card workers.