One for the mentalists among us.

Long unavailable, the classic Key-Rect was one of the strongest mentalism routines that you'll ever perform! Max Maven caused a stir when he performed this on national television, causing a resurgence of interest in this mentalism effect!

A spectator is given a lock and 4 keys to examine thoroughly. He finds that none of the keys will open the padlock. A fifth key is brought out. The lock can be opened only with this one key. The lock is then fastened to his buttonhole and the rest of the keys are mixed up and given to other spectators. Yet, the performer can instantly divine which is the key that will open the lock.

Moreover, you can do it with the keys sealed inside separate envelopes; there are no marking systems required. In fact, if the performer so desires, he can actually have the spectator divine the correct key and he will always be correct!

Key-Rect is a precision made piece of equipment that will stand the toughest scrutiny and examination. You'll be thrilled over this clever idea. Comes with high-quality precision-manufactured Master lock and keys.

http://www.hocus-pocus.com/magicshop/?p=36679

How does this compare to Correct Key? I currently use Correct Key, and I can't find a Supalok. I would like something with keys that look more normal than Correct Key.

Is this worth getting or would one recommend hunting Supalok down which is more expensive when it does pop up?

With Mick Hanzlik's passing some months ago, one is not likely to find an available Supalok popping up. Paul McCaig, at the Psychic Mentality website, used to market the Supalok (and also the Grismer locks) that Mick made. Their site still does not show that anyone else is yet making the Supalok again.

As I recall, the well-known lock that has been off the market for some years was called "Key-R-Rect." Does anyone know if the "Key-Rect" that is now out is in fact the same lock?

George

I used to have a "Key-R-Rect" and it looked the same except for the blue band around the lock.

Robert

.... and there are two options for sale right now!

I have a large supalok and it's awesome.

It sounds like Key-r-Rect is very similar and it availability is great news.

I have the original Key-R-Rect from many years ago. Looking at the reference on Hocus-Pocus website, the other difference is the keys. The keys provided with the original is a product of the time it was in history. Over the years things do change, and the original had long keys, with wide teeth cuts. It looked like the most keys for heavy duty locks. I had similar keys for my bicycle lock.

I don't really see that they would lead anything or distract from a presentation in any way. If you need a reason, I just say it is your childhood lock, or you duffle bag lock from Military Service, or you grandfather lock, as all the keys are shown to not open the lock, and only one does open the lock.

The late great Roy Johnson from England published a great routine in one of his early books. Many since have adapted the routine. Roy Johnson did not use a prepared lock or keys. He was a brilliant creative magician.

I just purchased Keyrect. I will give a comparison to Correct Key after I receive it. The issue I have with Correct Key is that the keys look odd because of the old style long, skinny teeth. I've also had Correct Key open prematurely twice. I can't wait to see the difference.

Just watched Max Maven do this on "Max Maven - A Fabulous Monster" - a documentary about his life that's available for rent or purchase on the Internet.

He does it at a performance near the end of the film using five spectators. He asks one of the spectators - whoever thinks he or she has the key that opens the lock - to stand up.

It's a wonderful routine. Definitely worth watching.

Robert

Is this hands off after the inspection phase?Please PM if this borders on exposure.

What is the purpose of opening the lock?

Max has never released this routine, so discussing it here is extremely poor form.

I can't see a rule about forbidding discussion of an effect performed on television or theatre. Link me up!

Max's routine isn't available, but there are plenty of 7 keys routines available and gimmicked locks available. I just purchased a Supalok and a Key Rect. I own a Correct Key, but will most likely be selling it now.

I inquired with Hocus Pocus before placing an order. The new Key-Rect uses normal keys and the non-master keys do not rotate like Correct Key.

Sounds great! I ordered this earlier this week and I bought a brand new, unopened Supalok today.

I was going to buy this but I have The Mystic Key and it works on the same general principle so I'm just going to dust off my door version and have fun with it again. But looks like a great effect I do like the pad lock look.

Good magic to all,


Eric

Is The Mystic Key a gravity lock?

Will this be available at other retailers, or is this a Hocus Pocus exclusive?

@twistedace: I would appreciate a comparison between this and Supalok once you receive both. PM if necessary.