I must admit, the gimmick is pretty cool and this was one of the first htings I ordered from penguin. When I was practicing it, the first time it looked fine and if I remember correctly I couldn't figure out the trick until I read the instructions which was a great feeling! :)

However, once I practiced a couple times...the "gimmick" became very visible. I was told to use some brasso on it, which I did...and it barely helped. Penguin did exchange it though & same problem so I just gave up.

The point being, I gave up on it after it became really easy to figure out by my brothers and I've never used it since...

Overall: cool gimmick, out of place for walkaround (which is what i do), and iffy quality.

There are a few things you have to get this trick to its full potential

1. Polish regularly, not just for looks but so you don't expose the gimmick.
2. Never take the matchbox out of site or people will think you slip brass in then.
3. Don't where sleeves or at lest role them up
4. If you can borrow the matchbox and toothpick or needle
5. Let everything be completely examined

If you follow these steps you will have a miracle that fits in you pocket and that will freak people out

A nice little trick of the pub / restaurant venue, or just keep it in your pocket for when someone asks for a light. The sound of the block dropping on the table usually is what seals the deal on this trick; the most common thing I hear is “you switched boxes, because there is no way!”. Just to address some point that have been made elsewhere...
1) Requires lots of practice - Simply not true; it’s harder to deal a poker hand.
2) People figure it out right away - I’ve 100% success rate so far.
3) Not examinable - Could be a problem, but most gimmicks are; I recommending moving onto the next trick quickly.
4) Way too expensive - It is expensive, but you are getting a solid block of brass.
5) Doesn't always work. - It always works! I don’t see how it couldn’t work.
6) Gimmick can be clearly seen. - Sometimes, but if used correctly, then no problems.

Anyway, only 3 Stars;
Based on price and it’s hardly a “Lion from your ear-hole” trick.

Easy of use = Easy, almost self working
Audience “wow” factor = Low to Medium
Audience Reaction = “You switched boxes” and “let me try”.

Audience Target = Anywhere, Bar/Restaurant
Could be performed Surrounded = Absolutely
Reset Speed = 30 / 60 seconds, out of sight of people.
Examinable = Yes; but it isn’t going to take much to figure it out.
Fun to perform = It’s ok

I carry my Matchbox Penetration everywhere I go. I love showing it to engineers cause they just can't figure it out. This is self working and can be performed immediately out of the box, yet it has the biggest effect on the audience. I have had people try for hours to figure it out yes they can't. Great trick, put it in your cart NOW!

A recent reviewer mentioned seeing a magician in Branson perform this trick. I am that magician. This has become one of my favorite close-up tricks because of it's great potential as a motivational tool. As with any good tricks, this can become not just a trick, but a miracle.

I saw a magician in Branson do this trick, and it blew me away! Buy Now!!! A close-up classic!!!!!!!

I voulnteer at a magic shop and I got to play with this effect and I was blown away by the method because you can hand everything out for examination yet this effect is gimmicked!! It is completely self contained but is gimmicked and nobody will see the gimmick when it's right in front of their face, you can have it right under their nose and they could be feeling for little trap doors all they want but there are none!

I love this trick. I am an engineer, and I've shown this to other engineers. It has fooled everyone I've shown it to. Most people think I've palmed the brass block somehow. No one has ever guessed the real secret. This is great magic, with opportunity for comedy. If you're considering this trick, buy it!

This probably one of the worst tricks i've ever owned. First off what you get for the price is not worth it, the trick should sell for 10 bucks tops. The gimmick to me seems easily detectable. The trick itself does not require practice at all, it is very easy to do, but the spectators reaction are either groans, or "oh clever" nothing spectacular.

There are many other effects available in the store, that get great reactions and are cheaper.

I would recommend Tele-vision, Scotch and Soda, or heck even Pyro perception, these have gotten me great reactions compared to this flop.

I would like to say thank you to the creator of this trick. I have been using the little brass since I got and it is quite strange for me to see the spectator look at the brass without anyone notice the secret at all. I would prefer the have the bigger version of this kind of thing. However, I have not seen one selling online though.

Great magic.
Enjoy performing .!
thanks !