Micheal Ammar's Toppit DVD deals with deck switches and shows one in a live performance on "Johnny Carson".

Ok- I have used the 'toppit' method and do still switch decks by getting some stuff out of my close-up case at my show. I would say the best 'deck switch' that I have came up with was I call a 'direct turnaround switch'. This works great for walk-around, and close-up show situations. I came up with this one while performing Sankey's 'AirTight' trick in a restaurant. The idea was this (believe me this works great with a lay audience)the card is selected by the spectator and then is asked to sign the card with a sharpie. I state, 'I don't want to see the card' so I will turn around. When you turn around, you slip the deck in your pocket and grab the deck you are going to switch. Turn around and it's done! Believe me, this sounds gutsy, but it works. The audience completely, understands the concept of 'not-seeing' the card. I should mention that this deck switch will be the first trick dealing with signed cards in my act. And if later, I have another signed card effect, I will do the same thing and turn around, even if I don't need to switch the decks. I do about 4 to 5 deck switches in my show. This is one that I have saved it for the 'AirTight' trick.

As said in an earlier post ,there is a great method in the classic magic of larry jennings.I like that one.

Also, finish off your routine with a deck to pocket(vanish) and bring out the duplicate deck.
This is what I do

kukram

I have no idea what the best method for switching decks is. The best method for anyone is the one that works for them.

The best deck swich I have seen is on the Steve Forte tapes. His deck switch is like magic...

Volume One of Richard Osterlind's Mind Mysteries has a very nice deck switch. It's not mentioned in the explanations but if you watch the performance carefully you'll find it. I still haven't met anyone who spotted the switch the first time they viewed the tape. However, after pointing it out, I've had several people say that it's too obvious. Magicians are a strange breed.

Good thing you pointed this up. I had to watch it again to spot it. Now I just have to think how I can make that "move".

Tommy Wonder does one on one of his videos or DVD's and it flies by everyone. Check it out.