Fast and Loose (con game)

Fast and Loose is a confidence trick or con game that has been played across the world for centuries. It is also known by other names such as Pricking the Garter and The Strap. The game is a classic example of a swindle aimed at separating unsuspecting individuals from their money by offering them a chance to win by seemingly simple means, but where the odds are heavily stacked against them.

Gameplay

The essence of Fast and Loose involves a con artist laying out a long, braided cord in a figure-eight or pretzel shape on a flat surface. The trickster then challenges a bystander to "pin" one loop of the cord by placing a stake on it. The catch is that the con artist has manipulated the cord in such a way that they can control whether the loop will be "fast" (tight) or "loose" (slack) when they pull the cord. If the loop is fast, the stake will stay in place, but if it's loose, the stake will fall off as the cord is pulled, resulting in the player losing their bet.

Techniques

The con artist employs sleight of hand and psychological manipulation to ensure that the player loses more often than not. The game is rigged from the start; the operator has practiced the technique to control the outcome. Players are often enticed by seeing a few staged wins, where shills (accomplices pretending to be regular players) win money, creating an illusion that the game is winnable.

Historical Context

Fast and Loose has roots that trace back to the Middle Ages, where it was known as Pricking the Garter. It was commonly played at fairs and gatherings, often by traveling entertainers or charlatans. The game has been referenced in literature and historical accounts, highlighting its prevalence as a popular form of street gambling.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

As with many con games, Fast and Loose is illegal in many jurisdictions. It is considered a form of fraud or theft by deception. Law enforcement agencies and consumer protection organizations warn against participating in such games, as they are designed to be unwinnable for the average participant.

In Popular Culture

Fast and Loose has been depicted in various forms of media, including literature, films, and television shows, often to illustrate the cunning of con artists or to serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of gambling with strangers.

See Also

• Confidence trick
• Sleight of hand
• Gambling
• Fraud