talkmagic.co.uk

The Effect
This is a utility item which enables the magi to perform a variety of effects. Effects can include sending signed cards from one deck to another or changing the colour of a chosen card.


Cost
Costs £18.95 from here:
http://www.emagictricks.co.uk/advanced_search_result.php?osCsid=e9611c723eba9d93107b03d5f03cc70a&osCsid=e9611c723eba9d93107b03d5f03cc70a&keywords=deck+shell&x=7&y=8
But I found one for £10 on ebay.



Difficulty
at least a 3 - 4 depending on what effect you are trying to achieve.

(1=easy to do, 2=No sleights, but not so easy, 3=Some sleights used,
4=Advanced sleights used, 5=Suitable for experienced magicians only)



Review
I've only had this item for a few days, so I've not performed it in front of any audiences I don't know yet as this item requires a bit of practice. I guess the item description says what it is, but depending on how you do the sleight, it varies in difficulty. To do it like a pro is hard, and the video would help (thats about another 20 notes).

Once you've mastered the tequnique however, you are limited only by your imagination. Any trick can be performed where a card is transfered from one deck to another, making this a very versatile item.
An example of one possible effect can be seen here:

http://www.my-magicshop.com/assets/s2dmain.html?http://www.my-magicshop.com/503949935a070a763/50160496080fc621b.html

The quality of the item is pretty high, and it can be customised to whatever type of cards you like to use which is handy. Also it comes with some reasonable instructions with photos of how to do the required moves.

The downside is that when you get it, you might wonder (quite fairly) why it cost so much. Its not the best value-for-money item I've ever bought, but that said, I am happy with it and would still recommend it - just look for a sub-£15 one if you can.


Overall
Great item - a little expensive for what it is, but very versatile. Not for the beginner, but patience will be rewarded
3.5/5