Blackjack Tips

Blackjack Rules

Simplified Basic Blackjack Strategy

With two cards you can Split, Double Down, Hit or Stand, otherwise, your decision is whether to Hit or Stand. Always count the Ace as 11, unless it will put your hand over 21, then count the Ace as 1. You have a soft hand if you have an Ace in your hand that counts as 11, otherwise you have a hard hand. Always consult the Split Strategy table, followed by the Double-Down Strategy Table, then the Hit / Stand Strategy Table.

Split

  • Always split Aces and 8s
  • Never split 10s, 5s or 4s
  • Split 9s if the dealer has 9 or less
  • Split 7s, 3s and 2s if the dealer has 7 or less
  • Split 6s if the dealer has 6 or less

If the recommendation is not to Split, consult the appropriate Double Down strategy table.

Double Down (hard hand)

  • Always double on 11 unless the dealer has an 11 (Ace) up
  • Always double on 10 unless the dealer has an 10 or higher up
  • Always double on 9 unless the dealer has a 7 or higher up

Double Down (soft hand)

  • Always double A6 or A7 if the dealer has 3, 4, 5 or 6 up
  • Always double A4 or A5 if the dealer has 4, 5 or 6 up
  • Always double A2 or A3 if the dealer has 5 or 6 up

If the recommendation is not to Double Down, consult the appropriate Hit / Stand strategy table.

Hit / Stand (hard hand)

  • If the dealer has a 7 or higher showing, hit until you have at least 17
  • If the dealer has a 6 or less showing, hit until you have at least 12
  • If the dealer has a 2 or 3 showing, also hit a 12

Hit / Stand (soft hand)

  • Hit A7 if the dealer has a 9, 10 or Ace up
  • Always hit A2 through A6