I picked up a Phil deck a little while back after fond memories of having Oscar done for me years ago. I still love the effect, but I'd like a more examinable method (if such a thing exists). I know some, but not all, of the variants of this effect. Does anyone have any suggestions for methods that end slightly cleaner?

Unless you are willing to employ a "switch"...dirty is as dirty does!

FWIW

(Why does everything have to be examinable these days?)

I agree with the principle that you don't need to run if you're not being chased. To be clear, I was more interested in the trade-offs of the various methods, some of which I'm less familiar with.

Name That Card by Bob Solari uses a gimmick but all but the specs card can be examined at the end.
Not sure f that's any better for you.

Another way would be to put the heat off the deck with a stronger (or at least equally strong!) climax.
That s what I use and I end clean...