5 Rules of Winning at Blackjack
Everyone knows about Blackjack, also called “21″. But, do you really know how to win at Blackjack? Here are 5 tips for winning at the game.
First, you must understand the object of the game: to beat the dealer. The dealer has certain rules that he must work by, too. For instance, if the dealer has a count of 17, he must stand. If he has less than 17, he must draw a card. It is too easy for anyone to go bust when they draw a card on 16. So, your best bet is to watch the dealer and draw accordingly.
Second, you must understand your hand. There are more 10 count cards in a deck than other cards (4 each of 10s, Jacks, Queens, and Kings). So, you have to see where your hand stands in comparison to the dealer’s hand. If you have 12 to 16, you want to stand. You can go bust just as easily as the dealer. And just like the dealer, you want to stand on 17 or above. The only exception is when you have what is known as a “soft” 17, which means one of your cards making that total is an ace. Then, when you draw, if it is a 10 card, you will then have 17. Always hit when you have a “soft” 13 through 17, and always stand when you have a “soft” 18 through 21.
Third, don’t be afraid to split a pair. It’s always a safe bet to split a pair of aces or a pair of eights. Alternately, it’s never good to split a pair of fives or a pair of tens. Any other pairs can be split with just as much chance of success as a typical draw. Splitting is a great way to get extra money on the deal.
Fourth, double down only between 9 and 11. Anything less and you run the risk of falling too short, anything more and you might go bust. But with the 9 to 11 range, you will likely land in that lovely winner’s spot.
Lastly, know when to walk away. Sometimes the cards just aren’t coming to you. That is when you should get up, walk away, and cut your losses.
Blackjack is fun, and if you follow these simple rules, you’ll have great success playing it.
