Bottom dealing...

[dudders1994]

So I'm starting to get there with my bottom deal, and I actually really like the Erdnase grip (modified so my first finger rests next to my middle finger).. However, I obviously want my grip to be consistent throughout my dealing, be that off the top, second or bottom. Should I alter my technique for off the top and second and use the Erdnase grip all the time (which I've played with and shouldn't be that hard to do), or put some more time into dealing from the bottom in mechanics grip, which I think is a far more natural and familiar grip to the spectator?

I'd really appreciate any advice you guys have got!

Peace x

 

[dudders1994]

Or, alternatively, do you think it's OK to switch between grips as I'm dealing?

 

[hammondedward9]

Each grip has benefits and drawbacks. As much as having a compatible top, second, middle, greek, and bottom is an alluring ideal, the differences are often very minimal. In most effects your ability to switch between deals is not tested. In fact only one instance comes to mind: a "call to colors" effect where the final suit's stack is in order to be dealt: top - second - bottom. Similarly, in most common card cheating strategies there is rarely, if ever, a need to switch between more than two kinds of deals, (one of those almost always being a real top) All of that being said, I feel that though I would like to have (and am working towards) a compatible deal for all positions, but it is not necessary to use/practice those sleights. Your deals don't have to be compatible to use and practice. The switching of grips should certainly be minimized and achieved through handling rather than "adjusting the deck" obviously. One final thought: I believe the grip you are working from (as you described) is the "Gene Maze" grip. Jason England covers it in his video on the bottom deal and there are several other great sources including Marlo, and of course, Erdnase.

Would love to see the deal.
Edward

 

[dudders1994]

Thank you, Edward, that is all incredibly helpful and insightful. As you mention, a 'one grip fits all' is an extremely appealing thought, but you're right in pointing out that it is not entirely necessary for the vast majority of effects. To get such a helpful and educated response to my first post on here truly means a lot; it's great to know I've got somewhere to turn if I'm ever struggling with something!

I wouldn't say I quite do it justice just yet, but hopefully you can see the deal soon!

Thanks again,

Todd

 

[hammondedward9]

Todd,
Would love to speak to you in more detail. Please drop me a PM as I am unable to send you one.
Thanks,
Edward

 

[MarcoLostSomething]

For me, the erdnase grip works fine for everything, after practising the bottom deal for a while i get used to that grip for all the deals (top and seconds), and it actually feels better for me than the mechanics grip.
Yes the mechanics grip is more familiar, but if you happen to play poker or any card game and watch how other people shuffle and deal you will notice that everyone has his own method; so why you can't have yours? that's why i decided to go for the erdnase all the time, even when i'm not cheating.
The rithm is the only thing that really matters, so find what you are comfortable with and stick with it in all the situations.
Of course a layman won't ever notice that you are using different grips, so feel free to switch them as long as you don't have to do it during the same effect, as it could break your pace and lead to mistakes

 

[dudders1994]

Marco, thanks a lot for your advice. Sorry I haven't replied, had a pretty busy few days! Completely agree with all your points; will have a play around with various different styles and see what's comfortable for me.

Thanks again, all the best,

Todd