My fondest memory of hanging out with my step son was when I showed him the DMC elites and it was fun for both of us as he tried to figure out the marking system. He had never seen marked cards before and he loved the challenge of figuring them out. Unfortunately he took his life last April. You'll ever know how I cherish that deck of cards.
Totally agree with your top two 1. Penguin 2. DMC Elites I'd place Butterflies in the 3rd spot & remove Mint completely the markings are barely discernable…
Darn you David! Just when I thought NO more marked decks to buy... You just had to show me a couple more that I don't have. But you are just doing what you do best. So thank you. And thanks so much for the video index. It makes it soooo much easier to find that one deck, or two, that is new to me. Thanks again!
I have a shelf full of DMC decks. They are a little more expensive than some others but the marking is blindingly obvious if you know what to look for yet invisible to lay people. I’ve been using them for several years and never been caught out even after close examination. V5’s comes in Mnemonica stack as well as stack position markings on the cards. Plus Phil Smith is a super nice guy and has top notch customer service 🙂
David such a wonderful review on these. My issue is l had eye surgery and my close up vision as changed l am now farsighted and trying to work with progressive lenses and it is not always easy to focus on the backs. So of what you listed what would be the easiest to read. 😊👍😊👍😊🤜🍺👏👏👏
As you mentioned, the DMC Elites have an optional "Passport" full of tricks but there is also an optional full deck of matching gaff cards available with some great routines. Thanks for all you do David!
Delighted to see you thought enough of The DMC Elites to list them at #2. I've been using them for a few years now and I agree with your description completely. They are by far the best marked deck (for me at least) because I don't need to wear my glasses to be able to read the marks, and they are marked on all 4 corners so you can't get them wrong. Thanks for the review. PS. The DMC Alphas are also a great marked alphabet deck out there.
Just realized I’m one of those people, who watch someone’s videos all the time, but isn’t subscribed. I could’ve sworn I already was, but either way, thanks for your selfless contribution to the magic community 🙏
One of my favorites that I have are the Knights just because of the theme. DMCs are nice but overall I am lacking in the marked deck area. Nocs are great. One of my future goals is to be able to provide these types of products locally. Bring magic to the mainstream by potentially selling it or having local businesses carry it.
I have the same #1 and #2. My favorite isn’t a commercially printed deck but Kevin Reylek’s “Mainframe” marking system for Tally-Ho circle backs. He did a small print run of booklets a few years ago. Pre Covid I used to see him frequently and gave him my input. It’s probably the easiest to read, followed by the DMC Elites, then the Penguin Marked deck which was designed by Rick Lax and Kevin. I also like the Boris Wild deck, which is now on Phoenix backs, for certain tricks. It excels when you need to find a particular card, where the different positions for each suit is a plus.
Don't forget you can, of course, take any deck of cards and mark them yourself (like the gambling cheats of yesteryear did), either as readers or code (that you invent, so you're the only one that knows how to read them). Some decks you can pick up stupid cheap and experiment with. There's even ways you can print your own gaff cards using your home printer and a PDF template. The cards that you mark personally will often fool experienced magicians because they're always up on marked decks that are available commercially and they usually own them.
@@magicorthodoxy A blast from the past. Almost 10 years ago. Man, we're getting old. It's like my orthopedic surgeon said, "We're all still 25 - in spirit". (‾◡◝)
Butterflies are the only one I've ended using because of marking. Orbits I use for fun, but if I want to use the marking - I haven't found anything better than butterflies, yet.
@@magicorthodoxy i doub it. Because I really can't see the Noc markings. Even with good lighting, its too invisible 😆 But I guess its also what you get used to. I see the markings in butterflies quite easilly, but I also use them often.
Great Video and Thanks for all the helpful information. I took your advice and ordered the Razor (from another of your Video's) and the Penguin Marked Deck. Can't wait for them to get here. Thanks again....really enjoying your video's!!!!
Another great review to wake up to David. Thank you so much. Have you reached 50,000 yet? Can we reach for the 60,000 goal this year? That would be great! Your shows are so plentiful and done so well I'm surprised your knot at twice that many!
100 percent on Penguin decks being number one. Inexpensive. Easy for old eyes to read. I really appreciate some of the creativity of the other decks but so many of them are more difficult to use --either because of the system or the visual subtlety of the markings --and some, frankly, scream: “look at me.” Going with a graphic look with which most participants are very familiar seems to me the way to go - especially if your marked deck effects are integrated with effects using non-marked decks. If you do a dozen routines in a row using marked decks you may be asking for trouble!
@@magicorthodoxy have you had a deck of them before? They’re a decent deck but much dearer than Cohorts and other marked decks. Super easy to read though!
Thanks David for this nice review. Imho Ryan Schlutz False Anchors V3 have a great and multiple marking system, easy to read, and a nice design. DMC Elite, Butterfly, Knights, Pandrea’s Inspire, Jim Tyler’s Diamond and Brooklyn 101 are also nice. Waiting for Jay Sankey’s Spectacle deck.
great list and recommendations David 👍🏻👍🏻 Peter Turner has created several other coded decks that are great if you put the effort into learning the system … looking forward to receiving the JLB Deck from JeanLuc Bertrand (Kickstarter) and Spectacle from Jay Sankey … also Craig Petty’s Quantum deck
I made my first marked Reader deck in 1985 which was a DIY kit by Ted Leslie. It’s pretty worn out now so I don’t use it much. I have collected a lot of marked decks since then. I will say that as of 2018 I have avoided Coded decks like the plague. I just can’t think that fast deciphering the codes. I know several magicians that really like the Penguin,s P3: good markings plus the card stock is very nice. Also I have been a big fan of the DMC decks since they first came out. But they don’t have the back design that most people know i.e. Rider, or the Maiden and Mandolin look alike. My two favorite marked decks today (being 80 and bot-so-hot-so eyesight) are two old but available Rider Backs that are straight out of the Ted Leslie style I,e. HUGE Reader markings. They’re so huge you’ll laugh. I’ve been using them for ~5 years now and even experienced magicians get fooled. I wish you would take a look at these. They should be available on eBay albeit they’re no inexpensive. One is called “Easy Read Marked Deck”. The other is the “Hustlers Marked Deck”. They’re both genuine Rider backs and say they were printed by USPCC in 2013. The “problem” is people examine then for five minutes and see nothing. Then I show them the Reader markings. Then they laugh and say the marks are too obvious so they would never use a deck like that. Of course that is right after they’ve searched for the markings and n’ont seen them. I always glance at my watch when I give them out for inspection. Most give up in a few minutes but I’m prepared to let them go for 5 before I take them back. The Hustler deck won’t pass the “Riffle Test” but “Easy” deck will pass. If you only get one I suggest the “Easy”. And if you haven’t done it research Ted Leslie and how his decks were so success. The “Easy” deck is exactly his style.
Really like the Resurrected V2 design and was ready to purchase a deck, but sadly a year later from when you put out this video seems the black editions are mostly sold out still (at least that I can see). I can only find the blood red edition of it online for $50+, but I really prefer the black/white aesthetic. Will have to keep my eye out for it, as maybe one will pop up on ebay..
I agree with you that Penguins Marked Deck is by far the best. I need to know the card by a glance and it does just that and for the price you can't beat it. You said only 10 a pop which makes a brick cheap, but it's even cheaper if you do purchase a brick they come out to $5 !
Thanks David. Really enjoyed that. What's not to like about a good marked deck. I've got more then I'll ever need. You've encouraged me to get out my Butterfly decks and have a practice. I got them when they first came out but have never used them, (which is absolutely sinful). Did it take you long to feel comfortable with them?
Great review! I almost exclusive use marked decks. I've been using the Superior Readers for my everyday use, but I'm always looking for new systems and designs to add a little interest.
Great decks, great list, great to know your opinion. BTW, I don't know if you're aware of it, Phoenix decks are not only one way decks on the back, but also on the front. Cheers 🍻
David, if you go to Scam Stuff or Diamond Jim Tyler's website, you would be able to get his marked deck called "Diamond". I also saw it on Penguin Magic's site.
Buttery deck; even before I decided to get into magic I knew these were marked in some capacity or another. Not sure exactly where I learned this (Maybe a penn & teller fool us episode or something along them lines as that deck has definitely appeared a few times within acts). Whichever mainstream exposure I had as a very casual non magical everday fool burned into my brain the decks distinctive black butteryfly silhouette/appearence. If they were not so distinctive it might fly under the radar more, but they stand out (at least to me)!
I feel as well cohorts deck is underrated... It's marked, desing is retro kinda old school looks like You just bought it from a drugstore, also bigger pips, traditionaliy cut, the E7 stock and 2 gaffs; Its price is affordable and it's my everyday deck
My standard go-to has always been Ondrejs for adults and Phoenix back for younger audience. In the past I've loved using the ellisionist Knight decks too. Recently there was a nice marked deck I picked up off kickstarter called Midnight made by Sebastian Midtvåge that is just so beautiful but I only picked up one so I've been hesitant to really use it extensively.
Did I miss you mention the Bicycle Ultimate deck ? My new hobby [used to collect watches] is collecting decks of cards so I aim to buy them all so I've got a pack on order [along with identity deck red Elites ] and I believe they're the only marked rider back deck aren't they ?
I received in the mail today the maiden back deck from penguin magic! The markings are super easy to read but I did notice how it's not in mnemonica order like stated in Rick's video that you get after you complete your purchase on their website. It was in a standard order that playing cards usually come in??? I am a new magician so I don't know what to do with the mnemonica order anyway but I was just wondering why it didn't come in that order. Anyway, great price and great cards. I can't wait to do some magic for a select few of my coworkers!!
How about a marked deck that informs you not only the card, but if your spectator cut a small stack you would know the number of cards, what they all add up to, the card at the bottom of the pile, and as I do, the weight of these cards before you place them on a mini pocket scale! ..This deck was not mentioned, even the jokers show a clever reveal.
@@magicorthodoxy Probably based on that deck, but this one was lunched end of last year and has marking no magician could find. In my opinion David it's the Full Metal Jacket and available......'The Rainman Deck'
Great video and list. I'm going to have to disagree on your terminology in the early part of the video though. The term "Marked Deck" or "Marked Cards" can refer to marked cards of any type, whether openly readable or coded. If you go back and look at old gambling supply catalogs, a lot of them refer to marked decks as "Readers" and they are ALL coded decks. So as a historical term, "Reader" was just an alternate term for a marked deck. This is why I prefer to use the terms "Coded" and "Openly-Readable". This way there is no confusion between the older versus newer usage of the "Reader" term. And if you say "I'm using a marked deck" I consider that an umbrella term under which any system could fall. "Marked Deck" certainly does not automatically mean a coded system. I talk a lot more about the history of marked decks, particularly factory-printed marked decks, in my video here: ruclips.net/video/LrfwtPa0s7k/видео.html
I’ll second the person who mentioned Night Flight. Even though they look special, there’s no way anyone is going to find those symbols and they’re so resilient. Otherwise, I almost always use the Penguin marked deck in performance. I rarely use the markings, but it’s a backup. I accidentally pulled one out for game night and was horrified when I realized halfway through. No one noticed over 2 hours. As long as you’re not showing off and use a timing misdirection, no one will ever notice. P.S. no I did not cheat during said game night.
p,s I think the NOCs have to be my next purchase ,I'm very intrigued by how the heck that back is marked .Butterflies look great too but so expensive over here @£35
Yeah like marked deck got a few in my Collection >👇 tool of the trade for magic/magicians Got all of dmc decks and passports too great Red and blue 1900 marked decks like 👍 learning Got the Deland automatic marked stripper deck are very Cool old classic Got the Butterfly deck marked and non Marked black and gold so nice looking Medusa marked deck 7 marked System
I love my cohorts - they got me back into magic. The only negative I have with them is how similar the markings for a 10 and a King are. It's easy to confuse them at a quick glance. Quick question - do you think the Ellusionist Series 1900 marked cards are a little complicated? I didn't even realise they were marked until I saw your video on them. Thanks :)
What Dmc elite do you prefer? The V5 red or the green one V4 I saw both of your videos for each deck but still can t chose between them. Don t you think the v5 is too marked instead the green ones?
Hi David! Thank you for another awesome Magic Review! Allow me to offer a shout-out for the Members Section - it's the best value in Magic that I'm aware of. You offer so much value for $2.00/month - Thank you! Thank you for the run down on the decks - I currently have and use the Marksman - I'm going to add two more from your recommendations.
I'm one of those DMC Elites evangelists 😂 Love them. Marking is so good and I've seen so many magicians that couldn't see the marking, even after they were told it's a marked deck. The only downside is that laymen might think there probably is a marking. But with the right tricks, they won't have a clue either way.
@@magicorthodoxy I was going to message the same :) In fact they are available most places, including Penguin. From what I heard the design was bought by Murphy's and they reduced the price to compete with penguin's and other lower priced decks. Wish I didn't by a few before it was announced as the originals where selling out 'xD
Great cross section of code and reads. I do have a question: I have a marking system l have personal built. It's just a prototype. Would you be willing to give it a once over?
Hi Tom. I'd be happy to take a look at it. I created the fully-marked system for NOCs, co-designed the Penguin Marked Maidens, and have worked on several other marked decks over the years - Emperor, Glider Back, Screams at Midnight, Wrangler, Mainframe, and more.
You used to have much better taste in marked decks. Just 2-4 years ago, you said NKW Cadenzas were the best you'd ever seen. Now, suddenly, they don't even make the top 17? Way too many unimaginative USPCC decks on this list. You even used the USPCC version of DMC Elites instead of the superior Cartamundi variant. Not a good list at all.
@@magicorthodoxy yes. It's my fav. The marking system definitely takes time to get down. But the deck handles really nice and because you have to relax your eyes to get the system. I find it's forced me to slow down,thus making movements look more natural.
you should also do the WORST tricks or decks, etc ever........TRICKS TO AVOID, waste of money, too expensive etc. I have purchased thousands of tricks-------very few I actually would use ever.
LEARN TO MAKE YOUR OWN MARKED DECK HERE: ruclips.net/video/Dw6EROGnksw/видео.html
My fondest memory of hanging out with my step son was when I showed him the DMC elites and it was fun for both of us as he tried to figure out the marking system. He had never seen marked cards before and he loved the challenge of figuring them out. Unfortunately he took his life last April. You'll ever know how I cherish that deck of cards.
OH NO - how said. Sorry for your loss #prayers
@@magicorthodoxy Thank you. I learned about marked decks primarily from your channel. I will try to support you more in the future.
Sorry for your loss my friend. That's very sad. 😢
I"m sop happy to see The Code on here this time around!
:D
I love the DMC elites, they look cool and markings are really good!
:D
Totally agree with your top two 1. Penguin 2. DMC Elites I'd place Butterflies in the 3rd spot & remove Mint completely the markings are barely discernable…
:D
Darn you David! Just when I thought NO more marked decks to buy... You just had to show me a couple more that I don't have. But you are just doing what you do best. So thank you. And thanks so much for the video index. It makes it soooo much easier to find that one deck, or two, that is new to me. Thanks again!
More to come!
I have a shelf full of DMC decks. They are a little more expensive than some others but the marking is blindingly obvious if you know what to look for yet invisible to lay people. I’ve been using them for several years and never been caught out even after close examination. V5’s comes in Mnemonica stack as well as stack position markings on the cards. Plus Phil Smith is a super nice guy and has top notch customer service 🙂
:D
David such a wonderful review on these. My issue is l had eye surgery and my close up vision as changed l am now farsighted and trying to work with progressive lenses and it is not always easy to focus on the backs. So of what you listed what would be the easiest to read. 😊👍😊👍😊🤜🍺👏👏👏
penguin !!!!
@@magicorthodoxy 👍👍👍
As you mentioned, the DMC Elites have an optional "Passport" full of tricks but there is also an optional full deck of matching gaff cards available with some great routines. Thanks for all you do David!
Hi Keith
GT Speed readers are available on amazon now btw [at least here in uk]
oh cool
Tysmmmmm for the video and a huge thanks for putting timestamps in the description.
No problem 😊
Delighted to see you thought enough of The DMC Elites to list them at #2. I've been using them for a few years now and I agree with your description completely. They are by far the best marked deck (for me at least) because I don't need to wear my glasses to be able to read the marks, and they are marked on all 4 corners so you can't get them wrong. Thanks for the review.
PS. The DMC Alphas are also a great marked alphabet deck out there.
thanks EDWARD !!!
Just realized I’m one of those people, who watch someone’s videos all the time, but isn’t subscribed. I could’ve sworn I already was, but either way, thanks for your selfless contribution to the magic community 🙏
Hi Sean !!!!
One of my favorites that I have are the Knights just because of the theme. DMCs are nice but overall I am lacking in the marked deck area. Nocs are great. One of my future goals is to be able to provide these types of products locally. Bring magic to the mainstream by potentially selling it or having local businesses carry it.
great goal
I have the same #1 and #2. My favorite isn’t a commercially printed deck but Kevin Reylek’s “Mainframe” marking system for Tally-Ho circle backs. He did a small print run of booklets a few years ago. Pre Covid I used to see him frequently and gave him my input. It’s probably the easiest to read, followed by the DMC Elites, then the Penguin Marked deck which was designed by Rick Lax and Kevin. I also like the Boris Wild deck, which is now on Phoenix backs, for certain tricks. It excels when you need to find a particular card, where the different positions for each suit is a plus.
great comment
Don't forget you can, of course, take any deck of cards and mark them yourself (like the gambling cheats of yesteryear did), either as readers or code (that you invent, so you're the only one that knows how to read them). Some decks you can pick up stupid cheap and experiment with. There's even ways you can print your own gaff cards using your home printer and a PDF template. The cards that you mark personally will often fool experienced magicians because they're always up on marked decks that are available commercially and they usually own them.
good reminder ruclips.net/video/Dw6EROGnksw/видео.html
@@magicorthodoxy A blast from the past. Almost 10 years ago. Man, we're getting old. It's like my orthopedic surgeon said, "We're all still 25 - in spirit". (‾◡◝)
I own a deck from the first run of crossed keys and I never noticed they were marked... Pretty good, I'd say.
nice !!!
Butterflies are the only one I've ended using because of marking. Orbits I use for fun, but if I want to use the marking - I haven't found anything better than butterflies, yet.
your eyes must be a lot better than mine !!!
@@magicorthodoxy i doub it. Because I really can't see the Noc markings. Even with good lighting, its too invisible 😆
But I guess its also what you get used to. I see the markings in butterflies quite easilly, but I also use them often.
Great Video and Thanks for all the helpful information. I took your advice and ordered the Razor (from another of your Video's) and the Penguin Marked Deck. Can't wait for them to get here. Thanks again....really enjoying your video's!!!!
Awesome! Thank you!
Another great review to wake up to David. Thank you so much. Have you reached 50,000 yet? Can we reach for the 60,000 goal this year? That would be great! Your shows are so plentiful and done so well I'm surprised your knot at twice that many!
So close!
I love my green dmc elites but one of my favourites is still the chris ramsay x Daniel maddison knights gold deck
what a classic
100 percent on Penguin decks being number one. Inexpensive. Easy for old eyes to read. I really appreciate some of the creativity of the other decks but so many of them are more difficult to use --either because of the system or the visual subtlety of the markings --and some, frankly, scream: “look at me.” Going with a graphic look with which most participants are very familiar seems to me the way to go - especially if your marked deck effects are integrated with effects using non-marked decks. If you do a dozen routines in a row using marked decks you may be asking for trouble!
YES YES YES
Thanks so much for sharing my deck on this video 😊😊😊 hope you are well david
You are so welcome
Great list there with some bangers! Night flight has grown up to the top for me recently.
oh sweet
@@magicorthodoxy have you had a deck of them before? They’re a decent deck but much dearer than Cohorts and other marked decks. Super easy to read though!
Something that surprised me is no matter how obvious a mark is most people won't notice
Agreed
Thanks David for this nice review. Imho Ryan Schlutz False Anchors V3 have a great and multiple marking system, easy to read, and a nice design. DMC Elite, Butterfly, Knights, Pandrea’s Inspire, Jim Tyler’s Diamond and Brooklyn 101 are also nice. Waiting for Jay Sankey’s Spectacle deck.
:D
great list and recommendations David 👍🏻👍🏻
Peter Turner has created several other coded decks that are great if you put the effort into learning the system … looking forward to receiving the JLB Deck from JeanLuc Bertrand (Kickstarter) and Spectacle from Jay Sankey … also Craig Petty’s Quantum deck
:D
I made my first marked Reader deck in 1985 which was a DIY kit by Ted Leslie. It’s pretty worn out now so I don’t use it much. I have collected a lot of marked decks since then. I will say that as of 2018 I have avoided Coded decks like the plague. I just can’t think that fast deciphering the codes. I know several magicians that really like the Penguin,s P3: good markings plus the card stock is very nice. Also I have been a big fan of the DMC decks since they first came out. But they don’t have the back design that most people know i.e. Rider, or the Maiden and Mandolin look alike. My two favorite marked decks today (being 80 and bot-so-hot-so eyesight) are two old but available Rider Backs that are straight out of the Ted Leslie style I,e. HUGE Reader markings. They’re so huge you’ll laugh. I’ve been using them for ~5 years now and even experienced magicians get fooled. I wish you would take a look at these. They should be available on eBay albeit they’re no inexpensive. One is called “Easy Read Marked Deck”. The other is the “Hustlers Marked Deck”. They’re both genuine Rider backs and say they were printed by USPCC in 2013. The “problem” is people examine then for five minutes and see nothing. Then I show them the Reader markings. Then they laugh and say the marks are too obvious so they would never use a deck like that. Of course that is right after they’ve searched for the markings and n’ont seen them. I always glance at my watch when I give them out for inspection. Most give up in a few minutes but I’m prepared to let them go for 5 before I take them back. The Hustler deck won’t pass the “Riffle Test” but “Easy” deck will pass. If you only get one I suggest the “Easy”. And if you haven’t done it research Ted Leslie and how his decks were so success. The “Easy” deck is exactly his style.
thanks for the comment
Really like the Resurrected V2 design and was ready to purchase a deck, but sadly a year later from when you put out this video seems the black editions are mostly sold out still (at least that I can see). I can only find the blood red edition of it online for $50+, but I really prefer the black/white aesthetic. Will have to keep my eye out for it, as maybe one will pop up on ebay..
fingers crossed
You knocked it out of the park this time. Great video 👍 please 🙏 do more top tens and deck wars
More to come!
I agree with you that Penguins Marked Deck is by far the best. I need to know the card by a glance and it does just that and for the price you can't beat it. You said only 10 a pop which makes a brick cheap, but it's even cheaper if you do purchase a brick they come out to $5 !
YES !!!
Thanks David. Really enjoyed that. What's not to like about a good marked deck. I've got more then I'll ever need. You've encouraged me to get out my Butterfly decks and have a practice. I got them when they first came out but have never used them, (which is absolutely sinful). Did it take you long to feel comfortable with them?
yes plus they feel super slick
Hi Dave! Just ordered the crossed key,hopefully I can enjoy it,the KEEPERS deck I try to get it to and is avalible on eBay. Thanks and keep it up!
Hope you enjoy it!
@@magicorthodoxy I hope Dave,the pdf for the card system I downloaded But looks complicated.
Great review! I almost exclusive use marked decks. I've been using the Superior Readers for my everyday use, but I'm always looking for new systems and designs to add a little interest.
awesome !!!
I'm using the night flight deck by Steve Dela. I was surprised you didn't have it in your top ten. But still a great list 🙂
oh yea, I gave it away in a contest ruclips.net/video/g5ynBPU-GWU/видео.html
Great decks, great list, great to know your opinion. BTW, I don't know if you're aware of it, Phoenix decks are not only one way decks on the back, but also on the front. Cheers 🍻
Thanks for the info!
David, if you go to Scam Stuff or Diamond Jim Tyler's website, you would be able to get his marked deck called "Diamond". I also saw it on Penguin Magic's site.
ruclips.net/video/uyEwBm-zlxA/видео.html
I use the penguin deck for things like card oracle to make them seem even more impossible. Thanks for the list!
You're so welcome!
Buttery deck; even before I decided to get into magic I knew these were marked in some capacity or another. Not sure exactly where I learned this (Maybe a penn & teller fool us episode or something along them lines as that deck has definitely appeared a few times within acts). Whichever mainstream exposure I had as a very casual non magical everday fool burned into my brain the decks distinctive black butteryfly silhouette/appearence. If they were not so distinctive it might fly under the radar more, but they stand out (at least to me)!
to magicians of course, but not to a lay audience
I feel as well cohorts deck is underrated... It's marked, desing is retro kinda old school looks like You just bought it from a drugstore, also bigger pips, traditionaliy cut, the E7 stock and 2 gaffs; Its price is affordable and it's my everyday deck
Good point!
@@magicorthodoxy thanks for answering... also sorry my english is not very good
My standard go-to has always been Ondrejs for adults and Phoenix back for younger audience. In the past I've loved using the ellisionist Knight decks too. Recently there was a nice marked deck I picked up off kickstarter called Midnight made by Sebastian Midtvåge that is just so beautiful but I only picked up one so I've been hesitant to really use it extensively.
A lot of people love the KNIGHTS
Did I miss you mention the Bicycle Ultimate deck ? My new hobby [used to collect watches] is collecting decks of cards so I aim to buy them all so I've got a pack on order [along with identity deck red Elites ] and I believe they're the only marked rider back deck aren't they ?
it's rare to find a marked rider back
He says he doesn't like the Boris Wild deck because the marks don't stay in one place but a minute earlier he congratulates the Nocs. 😂
Well, to be fair neither are in my top 10, right? LOL
@@magicorthodoxy Fair enough mate. I still enjoyed the video
Love the dmc and penguin magic
!!!!
I pretty much use the Penguin marked deck, easy on the eyes. I have the Wrangler deck on Penguin, but real hard on my eyes.
penguin is the best
David, as always an informative, educational and entertaining video and review. Thanks for all you do! Dr. G (Dr. David Goldman)
Many thanks!
I received in the mail today the maiden back deck from penguin magic! The markings are super easy to read but I did notice how it's not in
mnemonica order like stated in Rick's video that you get after you complete your purchase on their website. It was in a standard order that playing cards usually come in??? I am a new magician so I don't know what to do with the mnemonica order anyway but I was just wondering why it didn't come in that order. Anyway, great price and great cards. I can't wait to do some magic for a select few of my coworkers!!
I dont remember it being available in a stack
@@magicorthodoxy Is mnemonica a stack or no? I'm very confused lol
@@devildozer yes it is ruclips.net/video/r2cdjHUmsFE/видео.html
I have actually just bought a 12 pack of the penguin version.
I always buy these in brick
@@magicorthodoxy I also bought the elite edition, what do you think about them?
yes - love / ruclips.net/video/Dp3gwQHv8Fw/видео.html
How about a marked deck that informs you not only the card, but if your spectator cut a small stack you would know the number of cards, what they all add up to, the card at the bottom of the pile, and as I do, the weight of these cards before you place them on a mini pocket scale! ..This deck was not mentioned, even the jokers show a clever reveal.
the marksman deck does that !!! watch my review for it ruclips.net/video/hSET39pc7GM/видео.html
@@magicorthodoxy Probably based on that deck, but this one was lunched end of last year and has marking no magician could find. In my opinion David it's the Full Metal Jacket and available......'The Rainman Deck'
do you have this deck?
@@magicorthodoxy Yes, purchased it from Alakazam, check out the reviews.
I was wondering if anybody was going to mention this one. Haven't played around with mine enough yet but it looks impressive.
DMC ELITES. Great.
:D
Great video and list. I'm going to have to disagree on your terminology in the early part of the video though. The term "Marked Deck" or "Marked Cards" can refer to marked cards of any type, whether openly readable or coded.
If you go back and look at old gambling supply catalogs, a lot of them refer to marked decks as "Readers" and they are ALL coded decks. So as a historical term, "Reader" was just an alternate term for a marked deck.
This is why I prefer to use the terms "Coded" and "Openly-Readable". This way there is no confusion between the older versus newer usage of the "Reader" term. And if you say "I'm using a marked deck" I consider that an umbrella term under which any system could fall. "Marked Deck" certainly does not automatically mean a coded system.
I talk a lot more about the history of marked decks, particularly factory-printed marked decks, in my video here:
ruclips.net/video/LrfwtPa0s7k/видео.html
Oh I love your terms! Great !!!
DMC is GREAT, It's part of my EDC!
:D
I’ll second the person who mentioned Night Flight. Even though they look special, there’s no way anyone is going to find those symbols and they’re so resilient.
Otherwise, I almost always use the Penguin marked deck in performance. I rarely use the markings, but it’s a backup. I accidentally pulled one out for game night and was horrified when I realized halfway through. No one noticed over 2 hours. As long as you’re not showing off and use a timing misdirection, no one will ever notice.
P.S. no I did not cheat during said game night.
LOL
David.. I know you likecard decks..did you ever have three zoltar. Deck? I really like them.
3 zoltar?
p,s I think the NOCs have to be my next purchase ,I'm very intrigued by how the heck that back is marked .Butterflies look great too but so expensive over here @£35
oh wow !!!
@@magicorthodoxy Still cheaper than the Bicycle Ultimate deck @£40 .I think I might just keep them sealed and never use em lol
Love the DMCs
:D
You forgot about Medusa Playing Cards. It has 7 marking system 😉 Comes with Mnemonica as well
Ive never owned em (and they're sold out)
Great list! I use The Code but Steve Dela's Nite Flite is the easiest to read I've found. Surprised it didn't make it into the Top Ten!
I gave that one away in a contest - I always like the ones that look more like BIKES
@@magicorthodoxy fair enough, David. As a left-hander I always prefer ones that are marked both sides. Which surprisingly many aren't!
@@jacksonbollock penguin is marked on both sides
@@magicorthodoxy that's a great one. So reasonably priced. Just wish they'd incorporate a Code-style mark for even more versatility
Yeah like marked deck got a few in my Collection >👇 tool of the trade for magic/magicians
Got all of dmc decks and passports too great
Red and blue 1900 marked decks like 👍 learning
Got the Deland automatic marked stripper deck are very Cool old classic
Got the Butterfly deck marked and non Marked black and gold so nice looking
Medusa marked deck 7 marked System
medusa eh?
@@magicorthodoxy yeah medusa deck by Antonio Cacace they were around 2019 magnificent deck I think 💭 The snakes 🐍
How do you suggest learning to use a marked deck? Any good books??
I would have to say my favorite are the dmc passport they have the value suit and which position each card is In mnemonica also
Nice
Which one is the best for people with "older eyes"/shortsighted etc?
MY #1
I love my cohorts - they got me back into magic. The only negative I have with them is how similar the markings for a 10 and a King are. It's easy to confuse them at a quick glance.
Quick question - do you think the Ellusionist Series 1900 marked cards are a little complicated? I didn't even realise they were marked until I saw your video on them.
Thanks :)
I do think they are complicated - yes
I must be up awfully early because I'm the first to comment. I enjoy using marked decks and mesmerizing spectators. Thank you for all that you do!
Morning!
my favorites right now are the pioneers
oh wow
DMC ELITES and the Black and White Lions are by far the best marked decks ever created.
DMC's are on the list
What Dmc elite do you prefer? The V5 red or the green one V4
I saw both of your videos for each deck but still can t chose between them. Don t you think the v5 is too marked instead the green ones?
The white and red knights from madison/ramsey and madison has really good marked decks
I was so tempted to have them in there ellusionist.com/products/knights-playing-cards?_pos=1&_sid=5dd97257d&_ss=r
@magicorthodoxy i get you, there are so many nice marked cards outthere 👍
Hi David! Thank you for another awesome Magic Review! Allow me to offer a shout-out for the Members Section - it's the best value in Magic that I'm aware of. You offer so much value for $2.00/month - Thank you! Thank you for the run down on the decks - I currently have and use the Marksman - I'm going to add two more from your recommendations.
Thanks again!
I'm one of those DMC Elites evangelists 😂 Love them. Marking is so good and I've seen so many magicians that couldn't see the marking, even after they were told it's a marked deck.
The only downside is that laymen might think there probably is a marking. But with the right tricks, they won't have a clue either way.
And great video btw! Nice list, some great suggestions and definitely some decks I have to check out!
So true!
VI have Speedreaders in stock $12.50
OH NICE
@@magicorthodoxy I was going to message the same :) In fact they are available most places, including Penguin.
From what I heard the design was bought by Murphy's and they reduced the price to compete with penguin's and other lower priced decks. Wish I didn't by a few before it was announced as the originals where selling out 'xD
Amazon has GT. i just got a deck from there. the seller only has 2 left.
oh wow !!!! COOL !!!
I still use Ted Lesleys Marked Deck ... and like it.
nice !!!
Perhaps you've forgotten that when you do buy a brick of Penguin nemonica Maiden backs they are only $5 each, $60 for 12!
it's so great !!!
+1 for the DMC Elites haha
ha ha
No mention of Ultimate Marked Deck? Surely better than most of the ones on the list.
I got the UMD a year after this video was made
@@magicorthodoxy ah makes sense. Just saw your video about it.
Great cross section of code and reads. I do have a question: I have a marking system l have personal built. It's just a prototype. Would you be willing to give it a once over?
I really wish I had more time for things like that - sorry
@@magicorthodoxy thanks. Understand.
Hi Tom. I'd be happy to take a look at it. I created the fully-marked system for NOCs, co-designed the Penguin Marked Maidens, and have worked on several other marked decks over the years - Emperor, Glider Back, Screams at Midnight, Wrangler, Mainframe, and more.
@@kevinreylek2366 wow! That is an amazing set of credentials.
What a generous offer, I hope the OP sees it and gets back to you.
Another informative video. I’m lazy, is it possible to get a list? Stopping the video becomes a challenge. Thanks
sure !!! just expand the description and they are all listed there in order
Lavender roses are reader backs
Dope
is penguin marked deck suitable for astigmatism'not the best eyesight' person?
it's the best
@@magicorthodoxy okay ,thank you
Well, your top 2 are my top 2. There are too many readers where you literally have to squint to see.
yeup
Thanks for your top selection. My wallet is about to get a lot lighter!
enjoy
You used to have much better taste in marked decks. Just 2-4 years ago, you said NKW Cadenzas were the best you'd ever seen. Now, suddenly, they don't even make the top 17? Way too many unimaginative USPCC decks on this list. You even used the USPCC version of DMC Elites instead of the superior Cartamundi variant. Not a good list at all.
Sorry 😞
Sorry but the Penguin marked deck and Bicycle marked deck are the same?
On their site? They're labeled "marked cards" www.penguinmagic.com/p/9178
Black lions
your fave?
@@magicorthodoxy yes. It's my fav. The marking system definitely takes time to get down. But the deck handles really nice and because you have to relax your eyes to get the system. I find it's forced me to slow down,thus making movements look more natural.
Great review. Thanks for pretending to like my two favorites ;)
Thanks for watching!
The black Roses deck is a readers deck.
yep
@@magicorthodoxy I’m thinking about getting the Black Rose deck. Since the suits are real small Is it easy to distinguish the difference suits.
you should also do the WORST tricks or decks, etc ever........TRICKS TO AVOID, waste of money, too expensive etc. I have purchased thousands of tricks-------very few I actually would use ever.
I never keep those tricks - out of sight - out of mind
TED LESLEY ALL THE WAY!
Woot!
I sent you an email if you could look? THANKS!!!
did you get my reply
@@magicorthodoxy YES! Thank you so very much! If you think of any more ideas, let me know! "This is the way"