So, you have studied the rules and played in a few practice games. Is there anything else Blackjack ABC can do to raise your game? You bet!
Here are some hints and tips that you should consider:
When to Hit and Stand
The object of Blackjack is to get close to 21, right? Well yes and no. The real object of the game is simply to beat the dealer’s hand. You don’t need to get a Blackjack to win.
Therefore you need to assess both your hand and the dealer’s up card. If you feel the dealer will have a low hand then don’t fret about reaching the hallowed 21. Many beginners are so focused on reaching 21 that they hit, which may result in them going bust. It may be that, because the dealer has a low hand, they should simply have stood.
When to Split
It is commonly accepted that you should:
- § Never split tens
- § Always split aces and 8s
Commonly Accepted Advice on Hitting and Standing
How to Play Hard Hands
- § Always stand on a Hard 13 up to a hard 16 if the dealer’s up card is 6 or lower.
- § Always hit on a Hard 13 up to a hard 16 if the dealer’s up card is 7 or higher.
- § Always stand on a Hard 12 if the dealer’s up card is 4 through till 6.
- § Always hit on a Hard 12 if the dealer’s up card is 2, 3, or higher than 7.
How to Play Soft Hands
Due to the ace being able to have a 1 or 11 score, a soft hand cannot bust. This, however, can make a player indecisive when it comes to choosing how to play. Here are some pointers.
- Always stand on a Soft 18 unless the dealer’s up card is a 9, 10 or ace, when it is worth hitting.
- Always stand on a Soft 18 if the dealer’s up card is a 2, 7 or 8.
- § No matter what the dealer is showing, always stand on a soft 19 or higher. Always hit a Soft 13 up until a Soft 17 if the dealer’s up card is 7 or higher.
- § Always hit until you have a hand of 17 if the dealer’s up card is a ten. If you have a Soft 17 then hit.
- § Always stand on a Soft 19 or higher.
Doubling Down
- For a Soft 13 up until a Soft 17, only Double Down when the dealer’s up card is 5 or 6.
- For a Soft 15 up until a Soft 17, Double Down when the dealer’s up card is a 4.
- Double Down with a Soft 18 if the dealer’s up card is 3, 4, 5 or 6.
- § Do not Double Down if the dealer holds a 2 and you’ve got a Soft Hand.
Insurance
Most regular Blackjack players feel that insurance is not worth it in the long run. In the case of you having a hand of two 10s it is definitely not advised to get insurance.
Surrender
Where surrendering is allowed you should consider this if you feel your chances of beating the dealer’s hands are slim. At least this way you will recoup 50% of your stake.
When the dealer has a 9, 10 or ace against your weak hand, it may be best to cut your losses.
So, now you have the know-how. Soak it all up and hit the Blackjack table!
