Mark writes: 'I recently purchased a DVD and a set for the three shells game. The shells I picked are very smooth and when I pick up the shell as shown on the DVD it just slips out of my fingers. No matter how I try to grip it I cannot pick it up. Can you help?'

Hi Mark,

A good grip is very important with the three shell game. You will be moving the shells around quite quickly, so you need to make sure you select a set of shells that is easy to handle. There are a huge range of shells on the market. Some shells look stunning, but can be quite smooth. The Antique Copper Three Shells Game can be tricky to master until you get used to gripping the shells. Others are designed to give a strong grip and be easy to manipulate.

A good inexpensive practice set is the Vernet Three Shell Game

This Street Shells Set is great to handle and is one of the most popular sets we recommend.

For a more traditional look and feel, the Superior Three Shell Game Set is worth consideration

Improving your grip for the three shells game

If you are new to the three shells game, we recommend that you choose a set that has a defined set of ridges in the walnet style. They are light and easy to slide and grip. 

You can also improve the grip by using a roughing gel or by applying a touch or Octopalm to your fingers.