Blackjack

    Probably the most popular game in a casino other than slots is blackjack. In blackjack you want to get closer to a total of 21 than the dealer, without going over or busting. Its also one of the few games of chance that you can actually, with knowledge of the rules and understanding of the game, can win at in a consistent manner.

     To win at this game you have to have a higher hand than the dealer without going over 21. Or have a lower hand than the dealer and have the dealer bust, go over 21. To do this you must first understand some basics about the game. When to hit, stand, split or double down. Once you understand when to do them you can reduce the house edge and start winning.

    As you go on in this section I will refer to some charts that I have that will help you decide when to draw, when to stand. If you should split or double down. But first let's cover insurance. Insurance very simply is a extra bet that you can make if the dealer's showing a Ace. How it works is that you can have the option of placing a extra bet when the dealers up card is a Ace. If the dealer has blackjack you are paid 2:1 for the insurance bet. You will lose your original bet so in reality you are breaking even. The odds on the insurance bet are about 7.7% in favor of the house. So what it means is it's not a good bet, you will lose more than you'll win.

    Double down is simply that you are willing to double your bet in exchange for receiving just 1 more card. In iB you can only double down if your first 2 card total is 10 or 11. Some casinos allow you to double down no matter what the point total. Is doubling down worth the risk? Yes it is when its down at the proper time.

    Splitting cards - splitting can only be done when you have a pair or when your cards have the same value such as a king and queen. Should you split pairs? That will depend on the pairs, anything with a point value of 20 NO! I would split Aces and also 8's. Aces because you have a better chance of getting 21 by splitting the aces or at least getting a higher hand then you do by keeping the aces. You will however only get 1 card for each hand when you split Aces. I always split 8's they add up to a terrible number 16. It's too high to hit without a good chance of busting. It's also too low to keep because the only way to win is if the dealer bust. Again follow the chart. You can also request a copy by sending me an email either by clicking on email on the home page or send me an email to sarg1081@aol.com. The copy sent to you is a smaller version. This chart was increased in size for easier viewing.

Remember each time you hit your point total changes go back and check the chart, see what is recommended for your hand. This chart should only be used as a guideline, it will work at times and other times it won't. But then that's why its called gambling.

Some points to remember are NEVER ruin a pat hand such as a hard 17 or higher by hitting. The hand might not always win but you are increasing the house advantage by hitting those hands. You will lose more often than not. Splitting pairs, Always split Aces and 8's. And dont split 10's again you are breaking up a good pat hand that usually will win. Pay attention to the cards see what's on the table, then play your hand dont let someone else tell you how to play your hand.  Use basis strategy and you will reduce the house odds. As your skill in playing increases you will reduce the house odds and can actually turn the odds into your favor.