When it comes to performing magic tricks, the quality of your playing cards can make or break your performance. Among the many options available, Aviator Playing Cards have been a staple in both casual card games and magic performances for decades. But are they really suitable for magical performances? Let's dive deep into this classic deck and find out.
The History and Heritage
Originally created by the United States Playing Card Company (USPCC) in 1927, Playing Cards were designed to capitalize on the growing fascination with aviation following Charles Lindbergh's historic transatlantic flight. While they might not be as famous as their cousin, the Bicycle deck, Aviators have earned their place in card rooms and magicians' hands worldwide.
Build Quality and Handling
One of the first things any magician notices about the Playing Cards is their distinct feel. The cards feature an air-cushion finish, which allows them to slide smoothly against each other without sticking. This is crucial for executing flourishes, fans, and spreads – all essential elements of card magic.
The stock (paper quality) of Cards is slightly thinner than premium decks like Bicycle. While some magicians might see this as a disadvantage, it actually offers some unique benefits. The thinner stock makes the cards more flexible, which is perfect for certain sleight-of-hand techniques like palm shots and card springs.
Durability Factor
For working magicians who perform multiple shows daily, durability is essential. Playing Cards hold up reasonably well under regular use. While they may not last as long as some premium decks, their lower price point makes them an economical choice for practice sessions and casual performances.
The cards maintain their shape and handling characteristics for a decent period, though they may start showing wear at the edges after extensive use. However, this "broken-in" feel can actually be advantageous for certain tricks and flourishes.
Design Elements
The back design of Aviator Playing Cards features a simple, repeating pattern that's less busy than many other decks. This minimalist design can be beneficial for magic tricks where you want the audience focusing on the performance rather than getting distracted by elaborate card backs.
The face cards use standard court card designs, which is perfect for magic as audiences are already familiar with these traditional images. The pips (numbers and suits) are clear and easily readable from a distance – an important consideration for stage performances.
Price Point and Accessibility
One of the biggest advantages of Aviator Cards is their affordability. They typically cost less than premium decks, making them an excellent choice for magicians who go through multiple decks during practice sessions. Their widespread availability means you can usually find them in convenience stores, making last-minute replacements easy.
Performance Applications
For close-up magic, Playing Cards perform admirably in most standard tricks. They handle well for double lifts, card controls, and false shuffles. The cards spread evenly on the table, which is essential for tricks involving spectator selection.
In card flourishes, the deck's flexibility allows for smooth one-handed cuts and aerial moves. However, some cardists might find them slightly less crisp for complex flourishes compared to premium decks.
Potential Drawbacks
It's worth noting that Aviator Cards do have some limitations. The thinner stock means they may not be ideal for tricks requiring extremely stiff cards, like card throwing. They also tend to show wear more quickly than premium decks, which might be noticeable during extended performances.
The Verdict
So, are Playing Cards good for magic tricks?
The answer is a qualified yes. They're particularly well-suited for:
Beginner magicians learning the basics
Practice sessions where you don't want to wear out expensive decks
Casual performances and impromptu magic
Magicians working on a budget
Tricks that benefit from flexible card stock
While they might not be the absolute top choice for professional stage shows or complex cardistry routines, Cards offer a solid balance of quality and affordability that makes them a reliable choice for many magical applications.
For magicians just starting their journey or professionals looking for a dependable practice deck, Aviator Playing Cards provide excellent value. Their combination of good handling characteristics, reasonable durability, and accessible price point makes them a worthy addition to any magician's arsenal. While they may not be the fanciest deck on the market, they certainly get the job done – and sometimes, that's all the magic you need.
