The RPM Control: What It Is and How It Fits Into Mentalism

Quick Answer

The RPM control is a card control technique used to secretly bring a selected card to the top or bottom of the deck. It's not a standalone trick but a utility move that can enhance mentalism routines by allowing you to control a card without obvious shuffling. While it requires practice, it's a valuable addition to any card magician's toolkit.

If you've been exploring card magic or mentalism, you might have heard of the RPM control. It's a technique that lets you control a spectator's card with minimal movement and maximum deception. But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit your mentalism performances?

In this article, we'll break down the RPM control, its applications, and its limitations. We'll also touch on related products that can help you master this move and incorporate it into your routines.

What Is the RPM Control?

The RPM control is a card control technique, often taught in card magic tutorials. It allows you to secretly control a selected card to a known position, typically the top or bottom of the deck. The name 'RPM' might refer to 'revolutions per minute,' suggesting speed, but the move is actually about subtlety and smoothness.

Unlike some controls that require complex shuffles or palming, the RPM control often uses a simple cut or a jog to achieve the control. This makes it less suspicious to spectators and easier to incorporate into a flow of natural handling.

• The RPM control is a utility move, not a complete trick.
• It's designed to be invisible, allowing you to control a card without the audience noticing.
• It can be used in mentalism to set up a revelation or a prediction.

How Does the RPM Control Fit Into Mentalism?

Mentalism often involves predicting or revealing a chosen thought. In card-based mentalism, you might ask a spectator to think of a card, then reveal it in a surprising way. The RPM control can help you secretly gain knowledge of that card or control its position for a later reveal.

For example, you could use the RPM control to bring a card to the top, then perform a 'mind reading' effect where you name the card without ever looking at it. Because the control is subtle, it doesn't break the illusion that you have special mental powers.

• Use the RPM control to set up a card revelation in a mentalism routine.
• Combine it with a prediction or a 'think of a card' effect.
• Practice until the control is invisible to make the mentalism more convincing.

What Are the Limitations of the RPM Control?

Like any card control, the RPM control has limitations. It may not be suitable for every situation, especially if the spectator shuffles the deck after the selection. Also, some controls require specific handling that might not feel natural in a mentalism context where the performer often avoids touching the deck too much.

It's important to practice the RPM control in various conditions, such as with different deck sizes and while talking to your audience. The more natural you make it, the less likely spectators will suspect any manipulation.

• The RPM control may not work if the spectator shuffles the deck afterwards.
• It requires practice to make it look natural.
• Consider the context: in mentalism, you might want to minimize deck handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the RPM control a trick or a technique?

It's a technique, not a standalone trick. It's a card control used to secretly position a card. Think of it as a tool to build effects, not an effect itself.

Can the RPM control be used in mentalism?

Yes, it can be used to control a card for a revelation or prediction, adding a magical element to mentalism routines. Practice integrating it into a mentalism flow to create powerful moments.

Where can I learn the RPM control?

You can learn it from tutorials like 'Ninja Controls' which teaches essential controls, or from other card magic downloads. Look for quality instructional material to master the move.

Products That Can Help You Master the RPM Control

• Ninja Controls: Ninja Controls is a quick bite-sized guide to the 4 essential controls taught by Brad Christian in the NINJA series. You will learn: In-jog Shuffle Control, Fan Jog Control, Throw Jog Control, and Fan Steal Control. No matter what level you are, Brad will help take your card controls from zero to NINJA. This download is perfect for learning foundational controls like the RPM control. It breaks down essential techniques in a clear, step-by-step way, helping you build the muscle memory needed for invisible card work.
• Divide & Divine: Divide & Divine is one of the most devious methods we've ever seen. No markings. They Cut. They Shuffle. Your Back is turned - but you can still read their mind. Christian Grace is known for cunning methods and this is no different. It's fun to learn, easy to set-up... This trick demonstrates how a card control can be used in a mentalism effect. It shows a practical application where you can appear to read minds while actually using a clever method, inspiring you to integrate the RPM control into your own routines.

The RPM control is a versatile card control that can elevate your mentalism performances by allowing you to secretly control a card. With practice and the right resources, you can make it an invisible part of your routines, creating moments that truly seem like mind reading.