The Genii Forum

Is Aviator cards also good for spreading and fanning like the bit more pricy Bicycle cards? I'm assuming that they are as good as the other products of this famous card manufacturer but the price is so cheap. Anyone use the Aviator cards?

hmmm.....I guess no one uses Aviator cards......

Philip -- Aviators are a thinner stock than Bicycles, and less common in the U.S., so many magicians avoid them. Because they are less expensive, many trick decks were made up with Aviators (also Fox Lake bridge-size cards) and so sleight of hand magicians avoid them like the plague -- god forbid anyone might suspect your use of a gaffed deck.

Matt Field

sorry, another "newbie" question, what is a "gaffed card?"

A "gaffed card" is one which has been altered in a secret way to accomplish a magical (or gambling) effect.

Matt Field

Philip:

As Matt Field suggests, the thinner, somewhat less durable (but more pliable) stock used by Aviator produces a less expensive product (they are also not cellophane-wrapped like Bikes).

Due to their flexibility, Aviators -- also known as Mohawk brand in some areas -- fan and spread easier in some people's hands. They do become worn quicker than Bicycle cards, warping and showing the effects of oil and dirt.

As your hands become more supple and strong, your card preference will change. Also, various methodologies and handlings lend themselves to difference card stock (false dealing, palms, flourishes, faros, side-steals/passes, memorized decks, etc.)

--Randy Campbell