Blackjack Hands: Best, Worst and What to Do
Blackjack is a popular card game in online casinos worldwide, it requires players to beat the dealer by having a hand that equals 21 or is closer to 21 than the dealer's hand without exceeding it, and knowing which hands to play can make all the difference in winning or losing. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the best and worst blackjack hands, including strategies, percentages, and charts, to help players make informed decisions at the tables.
Understanding Blackjack Hands
A blackjack hand consists of two or more cards, and each card has a specific point value. Aces are worth either 1 or 11 points, face cards (kings, queens, and jacks) are worth 10 points, and all other cards are worth their face value. The best possible hand is a natural blackjack, which is an ace and any ten-point card, totaling 21 points.
The number of different blackjack hands possible depends on the number of decks used. For example, with one deck of cards, there are 1326 possible combinations of two-card hands. With six decks, there are over 4 million possible combinations.
The Best Blackjack Hands
The best blackjack hands are those that have a high chance of totaling 21 or are close to 21, giving players a higher chance of beating the dealer. The best possible hand in blackjack is a natural blackjack, consisting of an ace and any ten-point card, totaling 21 points. This hand pays out at 3:2 odds.
Other strong blackjack hands include pairs of aces or eights, which can be split into two separate hands. This increases the chances of getting 21 or a higher total. A soft 18, consisting of an ace and a seven, is also a good hand to play as it can be hit without going over 21.
The Worst Blackjack Hands
The worst blackjack hands are those that have a high chance of going over 21, also known as "busting." The worst possible hand is a hard 16, consisting of a ten-point card and a six, which cannot be hit without risking a bust.
Other weak blackjack hands include a hard 12 or 13, which should be hit if the dealer's upcard is 7 or higher. A hard 15 or 16 should also be hit if the dealer's upcard is a 7 or higher.
What Percentage of Hands do you win in Blackjack?
The percentage of hands a player can win in blackjack depends on various factors, including the player's skill level, the casino's rules, and the number of decks used. On average, a skilled player can win around 48-49% of hands played.
Blackjack Hand Strategies
The best blackjack strategy to win at online casinos involves following a set of rules that players can use to make strategic decisions during the game. The basic blackjack strategy can help players maximize their chances of winning by advising them when to hit, stand, double down, or split based on their hand and the dealer's up card.
Hard hands
For hard hands, players should hit if their hand value is 8 or less, while they should double down if their hand value is 9-11, depending on the dealer's up card. If their hand value is 12-16, players should hit if the dealer's up card is 7 or higher; otherwise, they should stand. If their hand value is 17 or higher, players should always stand.
Soft hands
For soft hands, players should double down if their hand value is Ace-2 through Ace-7, depending on the dealer's up card. If their hand value is Ace-8 or Ace-9, players should always stand.
Pairs
For pairs, players should always split Aces and 8s, while never splitting 5s and 10s. Other pairs should be split based on the dealer's up card, with certain pairs being split only if the dealer's up card is within a specific range.
Surrender
Finally, players may surrender their hand in certain situations, forfeiting half of their bet but ending the hand. Surrender is advised in certain scenarios, such as when the player's hand value is 15-17 and the dealer's up card is high.
Multiple Hands in Blackjack
Online casinos offer players the opportunity to play multiple hands of blackjack simultaneously, increasing the number of hands played per hour. Players should be cautious when playing multiple hands, as it can increase their chances of losing. It is recommended that players stick to playing one or two hands at a time to maximize their chances of winning.
Conclusion about Blackjack Hands
Knowing the best and worst blackjack hands and when to hit, stand, split, or double down is essential for any player looking to increase their chances of winning. While luck plays a significant role in the game of blackjack, implementing the strategies outlined in this article can help players make more informed decisions at the tables.
Remember that playing blackjack, like any form of gambling, carries a risk, and players should never bet more than they can afford to lose. Online casinos provide players with a safe and convenient way to play blackjack, but it is essential to choose a good online casino with fair rules and regulations. Following the strategies outlined in this article and playing responsibly, players will be able to enjoy the excitement and thrill of blackjack while minimizing their losses.
FAQ
What constitutes a blackjack hand in India?
A blackjack hand involves two or more cards dealt. Each card carries a point value. The aim is to outscore the dealer by holding a hand totaling 21, or as close to 21 as possible, without exceeding it. Remember to gamble responsibly.
What does "soft" signify in blackjack terminology?
A "soft" hand in blackjack includes an ace, which can count as either 1 or 11 points, based on the player's choice. For instance, an ace and a six can be a soft 17 or a hard 7. Always play within your means.
Are there any hands that should absolutely never be split in blackjack?
While splitting aces and eights is often advised, a pair of fives should generally not be split. A pair of fives totals 10, a strong starting point. Splitting them risks creating two weaker hands. Remember, responsible gaming is key.
When is the optimal moment to split a hand while playing blackjack in India?
Splitting a hand involves separating a pair of identical cards. The decision hinges on the dealer's visible card and basic strategy. Splitting Aces is usually a good move, while splitting 5s or 10s is not. Play responsibly and set limits.
Here are some examples of when to split pairs based on the dealer's up card:
- Split a pair of 2s or 3s if the dealer's up card is 4 through 7.
- Split a pair of 4s if the dealer's up card is 5 or 6.
- Split a pair of 6s if the dealer's up card is 2 through 6.
- Split a pair of 7s if the dealer's up card is 2 through 7.
- Split a pair of 9s if the dealer's up card is 2 through 6 or 8 or 9.
What is considered the most frequently mishandled hand in blackjack?
Experts suggest that a soft 18 is often played incorrectly. Players often stand on a soft 18, which can be a mistake. Hitting a soft 18 when the dealer shows a 9, 10, or Ace can improve your odds. Remember to play responsibly.
