You are Here:
Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?

Author (Read 11744 times)

Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« on: February 16, 2016, 01:20:05 PM »
 

52whitelions

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 17
    Posts
  • Reputation: 0
David Blaine mentioned on his instagram account that Black Lions "Seconds" were coming out soon.

From my understanding, factory seconds means an inferior product.  Something with a defect that didnt pass quality control.

What are your thoughts?  How bad can these cards have been off during printing or cutting to be considered "seconds" ?

Anyone have any experience with a factory second deck?
- Priestley
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #1 on: February 16, 2016, 04:48:15 PM »
 

HankMan

  • 52 Plus Joker Member
  • Discourse Royalty
  • *
  • 453
    Posts
  • Reputation: 13
I am not sure about david blaine seconds, but I had used several Bicycle Seconds and they were completely fine. Apart from some minor defects such as lighter colour contrast on the court cards. To me it is a cheap deck that I can use for any poker game, magic or practice.
Back for more
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #2 on: February 16, 2016, 10:24:22 PM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
Seconds, traditionally, are usually not the top-notch, perfect decks, but decks with minor defects that aren't enough to affect game play.  As HankMan said, it might have a slight error to it like a slightly incorrect shade, or maybe the faces are more off-center than usual, something along those lines.  Seconds are still considered of acceptable quality - anything with a serious defect would be considered too bad to sell.

In this case, it could have been a preliminary print run that had the wrong shade of blue or something and USPC balked at eating the cost of the reprint - an issue that was enough for Blaine to consider it to not be what he wanted to make, but not enough to be called a "defect," per se.  It could even be just the tuck boxes that are not 100% up to what he wanted rather than the cards.  (Or it could be an interesting way of marketing more cards than he normally would be.)  I'm sure they'd still be desirable.
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #3 on: February 17, 2016, 10:56:10 AM »
 

vasta41

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 28
    Posts
  • Reputation: 3
He put them in a new box, too: https://www.instagram.com/p/BA22WWqjPTZ/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #4 on: February 18, 2016, 12:21:40 PM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
When USPC sold Bicycle Seconds, they were typically placed in a new tuck as well.

As I see it, it's an opportunity to get some nice cards relatively cheap!  Even the worst Black Lion is going to be better than the best Bicycle Standard (and world's better than the best newly-made Mavericks)!  In New York City, Bicycle Standards typically sell for more than $4 at a local branch of a typical drugstore chain or from the corner bodega.
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #5 on: February 18, 2016, 12:35:04 PM »
 

52whitelions

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 17
    Posts
  • Reputation: 0
Even the worst Black Lion is going to be better than the best Bicycle Standard (and world's better than the best newly-made Mavericks)!  In New York City, Bicycle Standards typically sell for more than $4 at a local branch of a typical drugstore chain or from the corner bodega.

On another forum, someone said a source close to David said he is notoriously picky about his signature decks, and that its rumored to have come down to just the type of seal (tax stamp) they used on the original run of tuck boxes that bothered him enough to weed them out.  Either way, I plan to grab a brick to practice/perform daily with as beater decks.
- Priestley
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #6 on: February 18, 2016, 01:08:36 PM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
Even the worst Black Lion is going to be better than the best Bicycle Standard (and world's better than the best newly-made Mavericks)!  In New York City, Bicycle Standards typically sell for more than $4 at a local branch of a typical drugstore chain or from the corner bodega.

On another forum, someone said a source close to David said he is notoriously picky about his signature decks, and that its rumored to have come down to just the type of seal (tax stamp) they used on the original run of tuck boxes that bothered him enough to weed them out.  Either way, I plan to grab a brick to practice/perform daily with as beater decks.

It's got to be more than that.  A seal can be replaced easily enough, even pasting a new seal over the old one (it's been known to happen on his decks before).  I'm thinking it's something to do directly with the cards themselves - they were "bad" enough to not be what David intended for his deck, but good enough that USPC didn't consider them defective, so David opted to have new tucks printed and dropped them in those tucks, selling them as seconds.

Or, as I mentioned before, it could simply be a clever way of putting more of his decks in the marketplace.  It's possible, though from what I know of David having met him and his creative team once, I'm inclined to doubt that theory.  He's an exceptionally nice guy and works with a fine crew of people.
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #7 on: February 18, 2016, 03:46:46 PM »
 

52whitelions

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 17
    Posts
  • Reputation: 0
from what I know of David having met him and his creative team once, I'm inclined to doubt that theory.  He's an exceptionally nice guy and works with a fine crew of people.

           You've met with David and his team??  Who, what, why, where, when? lol  :)
- Priestley
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #8 on: February 19, 2016, 02:20:42 PM »
 

vasta41

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 28
    Posts
  • Reputation: 3
from what I know of David having met him and his creative team once, I'm inclined to doubt that theory.  He's an exceptionally nice guy and works with a fine crew of people.

           You've met with David and his team??  Who, what, why, where, when? lol  :)

It's certainly obvious you don't like DB  ;)
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #9 on: February 19, 2016, 02:44:32 PM »
 

52whitelions

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 17
    Posts
  • Reputation: 0

It's certainly obvious you don't like DB  ;)

lol, like many of us David was a huge inspiration to why I ever even picked up my first deck of cards 15 years ago.  The guy revolutionized magic by focusing on his spectators, instead of showmanship.  It was refreshing.  He made magic "cool" in my book. 
- Priestley
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #10 on: February 22, 2016, 05:13:17 AM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
from what I know of David having met him and his creative team once, I'm inclined to doubt that theory.  He's an exceptionally nice guy and works with a fine crew of people.

           You've met with David and his team??  Who, what, why, where, when? lol  :)

http://aethercards.com/discourse/playing-card-plethora/guess-who-i-had-dinner-with-tonight/
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #11 on: March 07, 2016, 03:28:22 PM »
 

The London magician

  • True Member
  • *
  • 54
    Posts
  • Reputation: 1
Hi Guys,

I saw the instagram post too, but its been nearly a month since he put that up and still hasn't released them.

I was wondering if anyone knew of a reason for this, or if DB changed his mind on the seconds of something like that.

After receiving some of the Blue edition of these cards, I'm quite keen to get my hands on some $4 versions of the black ones.

Thanks,

The London Magician
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #12 on: March 07, 2016, 04:49:12 PM »
 

Marcus

  • 52 Plus Joker Member
  • Discourse Veteran
  • *
  • 271
    Posts
  • Reputation: 52
Blaine posting something on instagram/twitter (and even writing "soon" or similar) doesn't necessarily mean it'll actually be released very soon. Someone else will remember this better than me, but the Silver Split Spades were teased for a few months before released, and I seem to recall the same for both the Gatorbacks and the Black Lions series (albeit not as many months ahead of time).

They'll be released sooner or later, but there's no telling when until Blaine posts an actual date.
Yes, I might be the guy you remember from that thing at that place way back when.
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #13 on: March 08, 2016, 12:18:04 AM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
Blaine posting something on instagram/twitter (and even writing "soon" or similar) doesn't necessarily mean it'll actually be released very soon. Someone else will remember this better than me, but the Silver Split Spades were teased for a few months before released, and I seem to recall the same for both the Gatorbacks and the Black Lions series (albeit not as many months ahead of time).

They'll be released sooner or later, but there's no telling when until Blaine posts an actual date.

I guess it's a little like the expression "soon come" in Jamaica.  It can mean in a few minutes or a few months!
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #14 on: March 08, 2016, 02:24:31 AM »
 

The London magician

  • True Member
  • *
  • 54
    Posts
  • Reputation: 1
Okay, Thank you!

I'm looking forward to them!
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #15 on: March 12, 2016, 10:35:39 AM »
 

hawk199

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 18
    Posts
  • Reputation: 0
I think it will be after david blaine shop is back and up as it is current maintenance (Emailed them about it)
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #16 on: March 12, 2016, 10:49:38 AM »
 

The London magician

  • True Member
  • *
  • 54
    Posts
  • Reputation: 1
I think it will be after david blaine shop is back and up as it is current maintenance (Emailed them about it)

Ah, so that's why his website wasn't working!
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #17 on: March 14, 2016, 01:18:33 AM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
I think it will be after david blaine shop is back and up as it is current maintenance (Emailed them about it)

Ah, so that's why his website wasn't working!

That's actually a frequent pattern for Blaine's web store.  The site goes down for maintenance, comes back several days later with a new deck for sale and sometimes a new design.  Could be they take the opportunity to insure the site won't crash when the deck goes out.
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #18 on: March 14, 2016, 12:36:16 PM »
 

52whitelions

  • Junior Member
  • *
  • 17
    Posts
  • Reputation: 0

That's actually a frequent pattern for Blaine's web store.  The site goes down for maintenance, comes back several days later with a new deck for sale and sometimes a new design.  Could be they take the opportunity to insure the site won't crash when the deck goes out.

Yup, I emailed and was told the same thing as well. "maintenance"   Although as Don mentioned, his site does seem to conveniently go down weeks before the release of a new deck or design.  *crosses fingers*
- Priestley
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #19 on: June 17, 2016, 07:54:53 PM »
 

Blockheads88

  • Newcomer
  • *
  • 8
    Posts
  • Reputation: 0

  • Facebook:

  • Kickstarter:

  • Skype:

  • Twitter:
Hey All,

So I know someone that some how acquired some of these decks. AS far as i know only a couple. I was able to do a trade for 1 of the decks and pictures are below.

I asked how he got them and was told a story that I am not sure I believe since I have not heard anything before how to get. I was told they were on sale for a very limited time maybe only an Hour (Not sure what site) and he was able to get a couple of decks.

It's really cool to have a this deck but not sure will David be releasing them? in full? As 1st Ed. 2nd Ed?

 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #20 on: June 17, 2016, 08:33:07 PM »
 

Justin O.

  • 52 Plus Joker Member
  • Discourse Deity
  • *
  • 636
    Posts
  • Reputation: 8
  • Charm gets you quite far. Guile gets you the rest.
I asked how he got them and was told a story that I am not sure I believe since I have not heard anything before how to get. I was told they were on sale for a very limited time maybe only an Hour (Not sure what site) and he was able to get a couple of decks.

If you get a few more let me know, or if you find out how to get more
Kickstarter completely revolutionized the way I waste money.

The people who handle playing cards are always in a world of delicate fingertip technology.
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #21 on: June 18, 2016, 02:02:51 AM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
Hey All,

So I know someone that some how acquired some of these decks. AS far as i know only a couple. I was able to do a trade for 1 of the decks and pictures are below.

I asked how he got them and was told a story that I am not sure I believe since I have not heard anything before how to get. I was told they were on sale for a very limited time maybe only an Hour (Not sure what site) and he was able to get a couple of decks.

It's really cool to have a this deck but not sure will David be releasing them? in full? As 1st Ed. 2nd Ed?

That's actually not as far-fetched as it sounds.  Blaine's been known to have "flash sales" on his website, items in short supply that sell out very quickly and come down the moment they're gone.  It's usually for limited-edition releases.
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #22 on: July 01, 2016, 09:50:03 AM »
 

PrincessTrouble

  • Don't Use This!
  • Haven Citizen
  • *
  • 1,255
    Posts
  • Reputation: 23

  • Facebook:

  • Kickstarter:

  • Twitter:
These are now available on DB's site for $5:

http://shop.davidblaine.com/products/black-lions-charity-decks



We are excited to introduce our BLACK LIONS SECONDS, at the LOWEST PRICE of any deck we have ever produced.

Due to a slight misalignment on the King of Diamonds, we are able to offer these to you at a price that can never be matched otherwise.

The deck contains all of the great features and secrets of our latest series BLACK LIONS with the highest quality card stock produced by The UNITED STATES PLAYING CARD COMPANY.

Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting started in magic, these are the decks for you. In fact, this is the specific deck that David Blaine has been using during the filming of his newest television special. Their premium texture and incredible durability make them perfect for performing or practicing.
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #23 on: July 01, 2016, 11:01:20 AM »
 

Don Boyer

  • VP/Dir. Club Forum/DAC Chair, 52 Plus Joker
  • Administrator
  • Forum Sentinel
  • *
  • 19,161
    Posts
  • Reputation: 415
  • Pick a card, any card...no, not THAT card!

  • Facebook:
I wonder why the web address mentions "charity decks?"  They don't appear to be being used as a charity fundraiser for any particular cause...
Card Illusionist, NYC Area
Playing Card Design & Development Consultant
Deck Tailoring: Custom Alterations for Magicians and Card Mechanics
Services for Hire - http://thedecktailor.com/
Pre-Made Decks for Sale - http://donboyermagic.com/
 

Re: Black Lions Playing Card Seconds?
« Reply #24 on: July 01, 2016, 02:04:00 PM »
 

GBrown

  • 52 Plus Joker Member
  • True Member
  • *
  • 54
    Posts
  • Reputation: 2
Hi Folks - I don't suppose anyone has seen the 20% promo code the site refers to; apparently its meant to be on Davids Twitter / Instagram accounts, but I cant see anything?
You don't stop playing because you grow old - you grow old because you stop playing!!!