A "Crack and Resubmit" is when you break a graded card out of its holder to send it in raw. Why? Because graders are biased. They grade harder on a "Review" service than they do on a raw card.

⚠️ WARNING: DO NOT TRY THIS ON A $1,000 CARD FIRST

Plastic shards are sharp. They can scratch your card instantly. We accept no liability if you Damage your asset. Practice on a $10 junk slab first.

Tools of the Trade

  • Tile Nippers (Red Handle): Do not use pliers. You need nippers that apply pressure to a specific point.
  • Flathead Screwdriver: For prying the edges (carefully).
  • Safety Glasses: Plastic will fly into your eyes.
  • Scissors: To cut the label and sleeve out.

The "Corner Nip" Method (PSA Slabs)

PSA slabs are sonic-welded around the edges. The center is hollow. The goal is to break the weld without touching the card area.

  1. Step 1: The Top Corner. Use the tile nippers to clip off the top-left corner of the plastic slab. Do NOT get close to the card. CRACK.
  2. Step 2: The Stress Fracture. Once the corner is clipped, you will see a white "stress line" running down the side.
  3. Step 3: The Pry. Insert your flathead screwdriver into the hole you made. TWIST gently. The slab faces should pop apart like a clam shell.
  4. Step 4: The Extraction. Remove the top lid. Slide the card out. Do not touch the surface.

What About BGS/SGC?

BGS (Beckett): These are much thicker. They require more force and often shatter messily. Use a baggie over the slab to catch shards.

SGC (Tuxedo): These are softer plastic but have a black insert. They are easier to pry but harder to crack cleanly.