Merry Christmas!
Got my first Chop Cup as a gift and to me it seems like the gimmick is too strong and has a difficult time releasing. I am guessing the real problem is inexperience. Is there something I should know about the handling that will solve the problem, or is it possible that the balance of forces is actually out of whack?

RNT2 sells adjustable balls. They will solve your problem

Hudson

Looked it up and didn't find them.

I found them.
Thanks.

Not sure if this will help, but when I use mine, I perform on the cloth bag it came in, allowing me to bang the cup harder on the table as it doesn't make a sound. This may help with a stronger ball, so give it a try. Otherwise the other suggestion sounds good.

I'm whacking the heck out of it!
LOL!

What size chop is it? Sometimes, if you "whack" too hard, the ball rebounds off your working surface back into the cup.

FWIW

I found that to be the case as well. Perhaps I just need more time to find the touch required, but the idea of being able to adjust the balls does seem appealing.

The RNT2 adjustable balls will make a big difference. You can adjust them to fit your style of performing so that you don't need to whack the cup down or set it down gently enough that the ball does not bounce back up. Spend the money and get a set!

There are several 'in the hand' routines that may help. Ron London comes to mind.

1st try this, take a toothpick and insert where it is strongest. Push it a small distance. This should help with the strength.

Yes, knowing which Chop Cup you are talking about would help with advice. All are not made equal.

It is an inexpensive wooden model from Midwest Magic.

If you place the cup down on the working surface at an angle it can stop the ball bouncing back to the gaff.
Instead, the ball hits the side of the cup and drops where you want it.

Thanks Tom!

I ordered the adjustable balls from RNT. Waiting at the mailbox!

The balls arrived and made a quantum difference! I am truly amazed at what a difference they make. Wish I had gotten a bigger size, but maybe I will do that in the future.