​Title: The Nightmare 3-2-1 Rope Trick
Creator: Nick Lewin
Publisher: Lewin Enterprises
MSRP: $ 65
Skill Level: All
DVD Run time: 47 minutes

Type of effect:  Rope trick

Manufacturer's Write Up: The definitive DVD master class on the ultimate handling of this incredible routine. Every Professional Needs This Effect In Their Arsenal. Don’t leave home without it.

“The Nightmare 3-2-1 Rope Trick” is two classic effects combined into one performance masterpiece. Nick Lewin has crafted a sure fire routine that gets huge audience reaction with the minimum fuss and props. Perfect for stage or close-up performance, this routine is ideal for all ages, and is totally visual in impact.
 
The props fit in your pockets without a bulge, never need replacing, and reset in seconds. You will use this routine a lot. This meticulously detailed DVD teaches every move, subtlety and nuance of the routine, and will have you performing the effect in no time at all. Nick’s video tutorial on the classic Conway Rope Trick puts this outstanding effect easily in the grasp of everyone—even if previously written instructions have left you confused and frustrated. This double punch routine has a powerful place in Lewin’s professional repertoire, and will quickly become a staple in your show.

How accurate is the ad copy? No deception
 
What's in the box?  DVD and 3 ropes

Key points:
 

• Can Be Used For Stage, Parlor, or Close-up.
• Highest quality, coreless, Baronian Rope made to measure, tested, and finished personally by Nick. “I’ve used the same set for 15 years,” says Nick.
• Totally ready to go right out of the package.​
• Comes with additional personal performing notes from Nick just for our Preferred Customers.
• ​Includes Performance video footage
• ​Supplied “Baronian” Rope. The very finest rope available.
• Every subtlety in the handling is fully explained and taught!

 
How are the production values: You get one live performance (on stage) with no edits and then the rest of the video is shot in a library setting.
 
Is it well made: Baronian rope is the # 1 rope preferred by most magicians, it’s durable, soft and will last you a long time with good care

Is it well taught: Yes Nick Lewin goes over every inch of this routine. This is the classic Pat Conway “rope trick” (using the same ropes as Professor’s Nightmare)
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  All you need is the three ropes provided and an audience.
 
Does it "play big?" the rope trick is a “classic” of magic – easily in the top 10. Every stage magician should learn at least ONE rope trick. Why not make it this one?
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  There is nothing extensive or hard about this. Very simple to do – no cutting, sleights or difficult knots.
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? zero
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Absolutely
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
___X__ Very Satisfied
_____ Somewhat Satisfied
_____ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion
 
 My thoughts: Strong Commercial Magic that Can Be Performed Any Time, Anywhere For ANY Audience

+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  

Title: 52 to 1 deck
Creator: Wayne Fox and David Penn 
Publisher: World Magic Shop
MSRP: $ 32
Skill Level: All
DVD Run time: 1 hour 8 minutes

Type of effect: forcing deck

Manufacturer's Write Up: The 52 to 1 Deck has been hailed by leading performers, creators, and scholars in the magic community as the cleanest thought-of card routine EVER! 

Many effects are possible with the custom-made 52 to 1 Deck including:
You spread the deck clearly, showing that every card is completely different. A spectator thinks of a card. They never tell you their card and yet they cut the deck themselves, right at their chosen card!
 
After showing that the cards are clearly all different, two spectators are invited to each think of a card. Without them ever telling you their cards, you simply remove two cards from the deck and place them on their outstretched palms. You nail their selections every single time!
 
In a cabaret or stage routine, spectators are invited to look at multiple cards in a ribbon spread. Even though all the cards are completely different, every single one of the thought-of cards is identified by the performer. No elastic bands! No restrictive handling. This is a version of the tossed-out deck that you will use!
 
Use The 52 to 1 Deck to prove that you can memorize a deck of cards within seconds! After someone names a card, you will instantly be able to tell them the exact position in the deck and dead cut to it perfectly. This is also instantly repeatable.

How accurate is the ad copy?  No deception.
 
What's in the box?  Fully custom deck and download code

Key points: At Magic Live 2017, the word was out! It was all people were talking about, from those who got to see this miracle for themselves. Leading mentalists such as Ran Pink, Chris Funk, and Bobby Motta could not believe what they were seeing! 
 
How are the production values: Wayne Fox and David Penn against a white backdrop and black table. You get distant shots and close up shots, plus some live examples.
 
Is it well made:  this is a custom-made gaff deck that has been printed on Bicycle Stock with Rider Backs!

Is it well taught: It’s Wayne Fox and David Penn going over everything you need – including their own “takes” on patter and use. Lots of ideas are handed out.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  Only uses a deck of cards, but could easily be combined with your favorite wallets or envelopes.
 
Does it "play big?" This is mentalism that can be repeated again and again.
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  Very easy – no difficult sleights, no calculations or cribs.
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? You will have to a little prep work on some of the cards.
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Yes – very easily but it will require a table.
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
__X__ Very Satisfied
_____ Somewhat Satisfied
_____ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion
 
 My thoughts This is killer mentalism where nothing is written down – and yet you KNOW their selected card and best of all – it’s repeatable.

+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  

​Title: Quantum Leap
Creator: Gavin James
Produced by: Saturn Magic
MSRP: $ 28
Skill Level: All
Video Run time: 33 minutes / bonus handling 3 minutes

Type of effect:  Card to impossible location / cards across

Manufacturer's Write Up: The impossible location is a classic in magic - Gavin James has now taken this plot and constructed a deck that allows you to perform the impossible. 

You show a deck of 52 cards and hand half the deck to the spectator. They choose a card from your half and it instantly disappears, reappearing in their half of the deck at a specific number! 

As an alternative, the card can appear in any impossible location you wish - in an orange, on a window, in your pocket, in the card box - in fact, anywhere you choose. 

Best of all, the effect can be instantly repeated with a different card and the spectator can change their mind if they wish and select a different card!
 
How accurate is the ad copy? This is what happens.
 
What's in the box?  Download code and gimmicked cards

Key points:
 

• It's an easy-to-learn routine
• No memory work required -- the deck gives you all the information you need
• Self-working, easy options for the total beginner. Requires no special card-handling skills
• Instantly repeatable
• Available in red or blue Bicycle backs versions
• Gimmicks included printed on USPCC stock - use with your own red or blue Bicycle deck
• Additional effects with the same deck shown -- it's not just a one-trick deck
• No Rough and smooth
• No sticky stuff!
• No palming

 
How are the production values: Filmed well, good sound, no annoying background music
 
Is it well made: standard Bicycle cards

Is it well taught: Taught with multiple options for forcing the card.  The cards across routine is very simple and is taught within the first potion of the video. The “card to window” effect (that is seen in the trailer) is actually part of a “multiple out” – but can be done as the actual effect if you are particular about the card you force.
 
Several other trick ideas are offered with permission including:
 
21 Again by Gary Jones
Biddle Trick
2 Card Monte
Dr Dailey
 
My thoughts this a great improvement upon an “old classic” that I think is way more deceptive and puts the trick into a cool context.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  These cards will fit seamlessly into your standard deck
 
Does it "play big?" Card to impossible location is always a favorite with audiences.
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  The instructions teach possibilities at all skill levels.
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? There are a few modifications to make
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Yes this is real world possible
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
___X__ Very Satisfied
_____ Somewhat Satisfied
_____ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion
 
+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGbXaunBCac
 

Title: The Ace Hut  
Creator: Landon Swank
Publisher: Hydra Entertainment
MSRP: $ 25
Skill Level: Intermediate
DVD Run time: 1 hour 36 minutes

Type of effect:  Sam the Bellhop style routine

Manufacturer's Write Up: International stage Illusionist, Landon Swank, created The Ace Hut over fifteen years ago. He has performed it on 5 continents and in over 40 countries! This unique take on a full deck story offers options for beginners, intermediates, and professionals alike. 

In collaboration with renowned musician, Toby-Joe Reilly, Swank's original poem was transformed into a Soulful, Bluesy cover. This unique feature allows options for the performer to either recite the poem, or simply press the play button and focus entirely on the manipulation. It enables the routine to be performed soon after watching the video! 

For an in-depth breakdown of shuffles and deals that can take The Ace Hut to the next level, check out "The Real Deal" instruction video.

How accurate is the ad copy? Spot on
 
What's in the box?  DVD only and jacket has the deck stack printed. You also receive a link to the music used in the performance.
 
How are the production values: One steady cam, Landon performs against a white backdrop with a blue table. Nice clear mic – no background music.

Is it well taught: Landon teaches you two deck stacks – one for a more technical flourish version and one for a straight forward version.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  DVD only, no gimmicked cards are needed.
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  Performer must be adept at a variety of false shuffles and cuts.
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? none
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Yes, but you will need a table.
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
_____ Very Satisfied
_____ Somewhat Satisfied
___X__ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion

+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuCQ1oK8-bM

​Title: Sven Lopes      
Creator: Sven Lee
MSRP: $ 25
Skill Level: All
 
What's in the box? This pack of 50 envelopes contains 25 force envelopes and 25 regular envelopes. They are availabke in many different colors - and a 19-page PDF with instructions and handling tips is ALSO INCLUDED. 
 
Is it what I thought? Yes, it is a svengali style envelope effect. It’s all pretty straight forward in the write-up. The Svengali principle is one of the oldest public domain forcing principles in magic and mentalism. From beginners to experienced pros, almost everyone uses this principle - either in the form of Svengali cards or Svengali pads or Svengali books. 
 
How are the angles? Super clean, no angle issues.
 
Can it be inspected? I would show some of the contents of the other “non-force” envelopes, but I would not let the spectator go through all of the envelopes – that would give away the secret.
 
What is taught on the pdf? This comes with a massive 91-page PDF of routines included as a FREE bonus. Almost all the routines for Svengali cards and Svengali pads/books can also be performed with Svenlopes - with an added layer of deception. In fact, when a spectator chooses one envelope out of 50, she can freely handle the single envelope -- there is nothing apparently gimmicked about it. Not just that, the spectator can freely handle the pack of Svenlopes by giving it multiple complete cuts and then choosing the top envelope anytime. 
 
 This product is endorsed by Richard Osterlind, Mark Salem and Luca Volpe
 
Is it well made? Typical handmade envelopes and materials.  
 
How much practice does it require? If you’re familiar with the svengali principle, it’s super easy. The force is along the length of the envelopes.
 
How much set up and reset is there? The force is along the length of the envelopes. The difference in alternate envelopes is totally imperceptible. The almost insane level of quality control allows you to concentrate fully on your presentation rather than on the props. 
 
Positives?  This is a strong prop for the working professional, anyone who uses envelopes - can use Svenlopes!
 
Is it worth my money? This is only $25, well worth it for what you are getting.
 
Who would like this? Beginning mentalists 

​Title: The Gift
Creator: Angelo Carbone 
Publisher: Murphys Magic
MSRP: $ 75
Skill Level: All
Video one: 7 mins, main video 39 minutes, bonus idea 3 minutes

Type of effect:  Prediction prop (multiple out utility)

Manufacturer's Write Up: Rarely does a secret get published that ticks all the boxes (no pun intended).  A unique concept from master creator Angelo Carbone, The Gift is an effect with a method so clever that you'll feel a giddy urge to reveal the method to your spectators. We don't suggest that you actually do this. 

The spectator deals the cards face up and stops wherever they want. They open the gift box themselves and remove the prediction inside. The prediction will ALWAYS be correct! 

Bonus routine included where your prediction is torn in half, and half of it is in view the ENTIRE time before a card is selected. The other half is inside the box and, of course, both torn halves match perfectly! 

The spectator and the box do the hard work, but you come out the winner. 

Available in Standard and in Limited Edition Gold 

Give your spectators "The Gift" of an impossible moment! 

How accurate is the ad copy? 
 
What's in the box? 
 
- The Gift Box 
- Deck of Cards 
- 40 min instruction video with Angelo Carbone 
- The ability to perform a miracle 

Key points: The Gift is a self-contained, precision-crafted device that makes the effect easy to perform. It doesn't use any indexes or loads, and resets in seconds. Open the box, set up the device, and you'll be performing within minutes. 
 
How are the production values: Murphy’s magic makes great videos – everything is well shot, well mic’d beautiful transitions. Artistically shot, with multiple settings al with perfectly clear and easy to follow instruction.
 
Is it well made: The gift is a beautiful and professionally made prop that does not look like a “magic prop” at all – it actually looks like a gift box, or a decoration box you’d find at a craft store.

Is it well taught: Of course you will learn the initial effect and everything else you need to learn and prepare for to perform the trick in the advertisement. Angelo will also share several other ideas.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  No. This is a 3 x 3 inch cube
 
Does it "play big?" Predicting the future from a seemingly free choice? Yea, this will get great reactions.
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  Not difficult
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? None
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) Absolutely.
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
__X___ Very Satisfied
_____ Somewhat Satisfied
_____ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion
 
My thoughts Certainly priced for the working professional. This is a beautiful prop that you will be proud to own and will last you forever.

+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  ​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1HlRveVNvQ

 Title: iCaan
Creator: James Went
Publisher: Big Blind Media
MSRP: $ 22
Skill Level: Beginner
Vido run time: 20 minutes

Type of effect:  Any Card to any number

Manufacturer's Write Up:
 
A deck of cards is genuinely shuffled by both the performer and a spectator, who then each select a card. These cards are lost back into the deck which is, again, shuffled. 

The magician announces that despite all the shuffling he is convinced that the spectator's card is 'fourteenth' down from the top. With a flourish he reveals the fourteenth card - it IS the spectator's selection. 

So far so good. But here is where iCaan moves into miracle territory. The magician names their selection (let's say 'Three Of Clubs') and asks the spectator to guess at which numbered position this card lies in the deck. 

Whatever their answer, the spectator is told to take the deck and deal down to that number. The magician DOES NOT touch the deck. Impossibly the magician's 'Four Of Clubs' is found at the exact number named by the spectator!
 
James Went's spectacular routine has been an underground smash - utterly devastating magicians at conventions around the world. If well-read, professional magicians can be fried with iCaan, just imagine what it looks like to a 'muggle'! 

How accurate is the ad copy? No deception
 
What's in the box?  Gimmicked deck of cards and the download code

Key points:
 
The spectator can name ANY number and iCaan will work
No memory work required
Includes three versions: James ultra clean original routine, An easier (almost self-working) handling, and Liam Montier's special super-easy alternative
 
How are the production values: Much like most BBM videos, same studio location (James is even wearing the same clothes he’s worn in Meditations and uses the same spectator) Shot well, mic’d well, good transitions.
 
Is it well made: The gimmick is very well made and there is a good chance you already own it.

Is it well taught: The plot is pretty simple, and requires virtually no sleights So between James and Liam Montier they offer you 3 solutions and everything is covered.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  Only a deck of cards is used.
 
Does it "play big?" the any card to any number plot is always a crowd pleaser.
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  James has a few “fancy parts” in his presentation that are more for the skilled cardiciain, but Liam comes in at the end and offers a more simplified solution.
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? zero
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) yes
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
__X___ Very Satisfied
_____ Somewhat Satisfied
_____ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion
 
My thoughts It’s such a fun trick and so easy to do, once you learn it - you'll be wishing YOU thought of it first! ;) 

+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdLNv1N5nyM

Title: Tarantula 2
Creator: Yigal Mesika 
MSRP: $ 75
Skill Level: Intermediate
DVD Run time: 33 minutes

Type of effect:  ITR

Manufacturer's Write Up:

When Yigal Mesika's groundbreaking Tarantula was first introduced, magicians called it "the most incredible levitation device of all time!". Now, after seven years of re-engineering and refinements, it's back...and better than ever. 

New Features 

1. A rechargeable battery that will last you over 100 performances on just one single charge. No more expensive batteries! 

2. You can instantly lock and unlock the motor at any moment you wish. Absolutely no set-ups! 

3. The micro motor is now completely silent and provides the IT reel with constant perfect tension. 

4. Say goodbye to old-school ITR mechanical reels or button reel activation! A new motorized and patented Soul Technology™ is ready when you are and enables you to operate completely hands free. 

5. The revolutionary stealth design is now far more intuitive, more comfortable, and extremely easy to master. 

6. A brand new video tutorial with Yigal Mesika himself teaching you new effects, performance tips, and psychological subtleties that will elevate your performances to new heights. Beginners and working professionals will definitely be blown away by this high-impact content. 

Effects You'll Learn
Floating Candy/Lifesaver
Hover-Ring
Haunted Pack
Floating Bill
Magnetic Bill
Bonus PK Touches

The Tarantula II can produce real magic anytime, anywhere, and in any light condition. You can operate completely hands-free without having to wear any special jewelry or clothing. The magic happens right under the spectator's nose and you can perform completely surrounded. 

How accurate is the ad copy? No deception
 
What's in the box?  Gimmick and USB cable, with download code (2 hour charge)

Key points: This unique device is easy to master and will give you endless possibilities.
 
How are the production values: This video is beautifully shot, filled with live performances, studio performances, slow and patient teaching with very informative chapters. Yigal also gives you several effects to learn which can easily be adapted to your personal style and taste.
 
Is it well made: The new features to this device, ensures that this is easily one of the top 5 ITR’s on the market today.

Is it well taught: floating bill, floating life saver, a magnetic bill (floating bill on the table) haunted deck, and of course he goes over care, breaking thread etc.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  This device is very small, easily hidden in any pocket and when you’re ready to perform it is virtually invisible.
 
Does it "play big?" Making objects float or move with no visible means of support is one of the most stunning effects in magic.
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  This is not a difficult device to perform with, but there does need to be some time getting experienced with it so that your actions look fluid.
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? none
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) absolutely. This is the ITR that is built for real world use.
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
__X___ Very Satisfied
_____ Somewhat Satisfied
_____ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion
 
My thoughts: Yigal Mesika is becoming the KING of ITR’s his thread and reel technology surpasses all others and the Tarantula 2 is nothing short of spectacular.

+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  ​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BaVUxVkAK2A

​Title: Withdrawal
Creator: Jeff Prace and Josh Janousky 
Publisher: Murphys Magic / Just Joshin Magic
MSRP: $ 25
Skill Level: All
video Run time: 33 minutes

Type of effect: Pulling cash from a plastic gift card

Manufacturer's Write Up:
 
Visually extract real currency from an ordinary gift card... not once, but TWICE... and the gift card is IMMEDIATELY EXAMINABLE with no palming, loading, stealing, or switching! 

You show a standard gift card with a $25 value. When you're strapped for dough, a gift card is useless; you need cold, hard cash. Your hands are clearly empty apart from the gift card, and a $1 bill stunningly POPS out of the card into your awaiting hand, leaving a $24 value PRINTED on the gift card. 

Of course, $1 isn't enough. As an audience member inspects the dollar (NO SWITCHES!), you pull out MORE MONEY... this time a crisp $10 bill! The gift card now permanently has a $14 value and is IMMEDIATELY EXAMINABLE. There are no extra bits or gadgets anywhere to be found. 

The automatic, self-working gimmick sits in your wallet and is ready at a moment's notice. There is only ONE gift card from start to end; the genius method allows it to be fully examinable with NO MOVES.
 
*IMPORTANT: Withdrawal is available in US Dollars, Japanese Yen, UK Pounds, and Euros. Please select the desired option when ordering. Product comes complete with materials; minimal assembly required.

How accurate is the ad copy? The gift card is not “standard” it’s a prop. And despite all of the Starbucks corporate imagery in the commercial, this gift card nor its logo bear any resemblance.
 
What's in the box?  All the materials you need to build this gimmick

Key points:

• Insanely visual
• Fits in your wallet
• Quick reset
• Multiple handlings taught
• Custom-made gimmicks included
• Gift card is 100% examinable
• No sleight of hand

 
How are the production values: Jeff and Josh are in a living room with a mounted camera, most of the video is gimmick construction.  There is a close up shot and a distance shot and through the video Jeff and Josh do teach you what you need.
 
Is it well made: You make it. Don’t screw up, don’t rush it – you won’t have the chance to go back and fix any mistakes.

Is it well taught: Watch the video all of the way through before you assemble your gimmick. Jeff and Josh teach two different handlings that each require a variation on the assembly.
 
Storage? Does it "pack flat?"  It’s the size of a gift card, and can easily be stored in your wallet.
 
Does it "play big?" making objects appear from nowhere is always a stunner.
 
Difficulty / Skill level required:  There are no difficult sleights involved, however, you do have angle issues as the card has very visible thick edges and seams.
 
How much arts and crafts are involved? A lot, you will need to cut, paste, punch and sew.
 
How practical is this in the real world? (can it really be done?) This is real world possible
 
Overall score: let's toss out the traditional score of 1-10 and make this something that we all can appreciate and understand.
 
_____ Very Satisfied
__X___ Somewhat Satisfied
_____ Neither Satisfied or Dissatisfied
_____ Somewhat Dissatisfied
_____ Very Dissatisfied
_____ No Opinion
 
My thoughts I love the idea behind the trick, but would echo many other people who think that a “fake starbucks” card screams “magic prop” it’s the same criticism I had for his “coogle” pen. I’d rather have a fake business, or even a phone card than a parody starbucks card.

+ Hey do you want to see my full review with even more of my opinions and ideas? Visit this link for my video review:  ​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4wk9ak51vo