I have to say I really liked the idea of this trick. The one think I don't like is the quality of
the product. Not only is everything probably 30 dollars at a hardware and craft store, but the
gimmicks provided do not even fit each other. For 250 dollars I would at least have expected
everything to work and maybe a little better quality. I'm a little disappointed that PM let a poor
quality product be sent at such a high price. Half the wood blocks provided don't even fit the nail
gimmicks provided. It's a great idea and I can't wait to perform it but be warned they do not put a
lot of effort into the gimmicks for the price. We pay a higher price for quality. You get what you
pay for but not in This case.
13 of 15 magicians found this helpful.
This is the best of the Russian Roulette effects. It is 100% safe. and there is no fumbling at any
point. Very highly recommended.
6 of 6 magicians found this helpful.
Yes, the method uses very inexpensive materials. I for one am glad this is priced so high, otherwise
every performer would be doing it. This version works GREAT and the audience LOVES it! In this
version, rather than reach into the bag to pull out the spike at the end, I can simply tear the bag
open from the outside to clearly reveal the spike in upright position!!! I have seen a version at
twice the price that always seems to take a little too long to simply lift out the spike. Remember
you are paying for the secret and idea, not the materials used to achieve it, and you will love
this.
4 of 5 magicians found this helpful.
People complain about the price. Why! I used this to end my show and got a standing ovation.
Audiences love to be part of the show. Nailed it gives you the wow factor people expect. This
excites the layman, the anticipation believing if they mess up a nail is going thru their hand. This
pays for itself. If you are a performer then get this and put your own personality to it. Love it
4 of 5 magicians found this helpful.
I really wanted to perform a spike trick but I was always nervous about the fear that I would stab
myself. I never bought any past routines with not so safe methods but then when I heard about this,
I had to check it out. I was not disappointed with the method because it made me feel completely
confident in performing. There is really only one sleight in this routine which makes it great and
you can focus more on your performance. IF YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT DOING A SPIKE ROUTINE, THIS IS THE
ONE. GET THIS AND ONLY THIS BECAUSE YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY!
4 of 5 magicians found this helpful.
The method / secret protection of this trick is the reason for the high price. The material at most
is at a cost of $15.00. The time with the right power tools is about 20 min.
3 of 3 magicians found this helpful.
This routine is incredibly simple but powerful, I never expected such a great method, I'd recomend
this anyday anytime.
2 of 2 magicians found this helpful.
It took me a while to feel "OK" with a few of the 'bold moves' in here, but with a little thought,
and a bit of practice in front of the mirror, I was able to pull off what I thought were some 'weak
spots', for me. He tells you everything you need to know. I never feel like its ALL up the
inventor to figure out every little detail for me. I was initially concerned about the 'outcome' of
the 2 minute art project, i.e. creating what you need for the effect. I didn't like the way they
looked. Mr. Alexander addresses this and let me say for me, that helped, but it was really up to me
to work out how I allow the spectator to 'test' the nail. Properly handled, what they 'see' isn't
much of an issue. In the end, as he points out, you really don't need to do anything more with
improving the look of your 'product'. Handled well, it's a non-issue. I have found a way to do
that, and, where that person (the 'tester') sits in the audience can help too. I like to go to
somebody on the end of a row for that moment. How one pulls the block from the bag in practice
revealed a few angle issues, but nothing one can't protect against easily and I found, how I reach
into the bag to bring out the block can be very helpful and it looks very natural even if one were
actually 'hiding' something. I also don't need to do what Mr. Alexander offers as a last 'touch' of
proving what's 'real'. It just isn't necessary, but it's good to know. As he points out, 'the
apple' seals that deal. Then, I'm through. I think it's a great effect. I have performed it once
with a live audience and will do it again, 'live' soon. So, I will continue to use it and that way,
it's cost is acceptable. You CAN earn your money back with this one. People have asked to see
again and the reactions of the audience suggest they like it. If you have any concerns, this is
ABSOLUTELY safe for you doing as is suggested on the video. I won't use it in the 'Kid' Shows for
obvious reasons but the Adult Audiences in my world have had a 'good' response to it. I guess you
could say, 'small stage' or parlor for this one. I'm sure a skilled 'stage performer' could pull it
off. Because I can 'move around' some, I'm fine at 10 feet. Its a 'good trick' if you want a
'roulette' type effect in your act. Its no danger to anyone and looks 'scary'. Yes, a little
'pricey'. Mr. Alexander tries to justify that but I would add, its OK because not everybody will
WANT to afford it, and yet, it can be a 'regular' in your act should you choose to use it that way.
I try to make this stuff pay for itself! Noting about this trick is 'hard' to execute, but for me,
I'm glad I did the practice. I suggest you do the same.
2 of 3 magicians found this helpful.
RIP to Scott.
I did it on television a few days ago, and it killed.
The method is
adjustable. I don’t use an apple, for example. I simply tear open the bag and slam the bag down on
the nail — and I came up with my own way to ditch the gimmick.
Packs small, plays enormous,
and fills a space in the show where “danger” is required. Could be an attention getting opener or a
show-stopping closer.
Fantastic.
The only downside is that you have to do a fair
amount of “arts and crafts” for every performance.
1 of 1 magicians found this helpful.
In my opinion, this is the best Russian Roulette routine there is. In my opinion it is also Scott's
best release to date. There is absolutely no danger and yet it looks so dangerous. There are
convincers throughout which will deceptively fool your audience. They can hear the metal spike
hitting the wood, they can feel the (very sharp) tip of the spike, and the apple gets impaled at the
end. Everyone will be convinced it is a super sharp spike. Scott also provides a way to hammer the
spike (very cleanly) into another wooden board and then give the board with the spike in it away as
a souvenir.
I cannot wait to use this for an audience. I know they will be on the edge of
their seats throughout. Great GREAT work Scott.
1 of 1 magicians found this helpful.