One necessary aspect to preserving a stacked or culled deck is to ensure
key cards remain in a desired location during the cutting process. There
are many false cutting techniques that may be used to ensure that a
stacked deck remains intact.
The Four-Block False Cut
The four block cut appears to be a very thorough cut yet it leaves a
stacked deck completely intact. Here the cheater holds the full deck in
his left then grasps roughly a fourth of the bottom of the deck with his
right forefinger and thumb. He then pulls out that block of cards and
appear to place them on top of the deck. However, the cheater continues
holding the end of the cards slightly above the deck. He then separates
the lower block of cards with his left hand using his left middle and
ring fingers.
The cheater then uses his right middle finger and right thumb to dip
down and grab roughly half of the now split bottom portion of the deck.
At the same time, he keeps his right thumb and index finger tightly
gripped on the topmost block of cards. Partially withdrawing cards, the
cheater then actually now holds two separate blocks of cards, fully
parted but not separated from the deck.
In rapid motion the dealer drops the top portion of the stacks on the
table, doing so in a motion that allows him to keep his desired stack
strategically placed on top of the deck. These motions leave the stack
completely intact yet provide for an incredibly thorough-looking cut.
With a skilled player, the four-block false cut takes at most five or
six seconds to execute. Using this trick also is a great teaching point
for the hands of the cheater, making his fingers more nimble and thereby
able to perform other card-manipulation techniques.
This intricate-appearing, four-block false cut adds a convincing
finality to any stacking procedure. But it is precisely the fanciness of
the cut that brings scrutiny and suspicion to players who are skilled or
aware of such techniques. Chances are, the smoother the dealer looks
with such actions the more practiced he is, leading to a proper level of
suspicion.
There are many other forms of cutting techniques including the three
block cut (one less hand splits the deck), single card false cuts, and
cuts using a crimped deck. The bottom line is beware of any sheltering
movements and the enveloping of the deck of cards by one or both hands.
A real, honest cut occurs on the table with the deck cards visible to
all.
