Blackjack is a popular casino game requiring skill and strategy. Splitting is an underutilized and misunderstood strategy that can increase the chances of winning by creating a second hand. To master this strategy, it is important to understand the recommended strategies and to follow basic strategy and gut feel.
This article will discuss when to split in blackjack, providing an overview of splitting and recommended strategies, as well as additional information for players interested in improving their game.
Understanding Splitting
Splitting in blackjack is a strategy that allows a player to create a second hand by splitting a pair, and increases the potential for a winning hand, although it requires doubling the original bet.
This is an underutilized and misunderstood strategy, but it can be useful depending on the situation. The focus should be on the dealer’s hand when deciding whether to split.
Splitting a pair of aces is always recommended, as there is a high chance of getting at least one blackjack when splitting.
Additionally, splitting is advisable when the dealer has a bust card (4, 5, or 6) showing. The dealer busts around 29% of the time, which increases the chances of winning.
Splitting low pairs (2s, 3s, and 7s) against a dealer’s 7 or lower is advisable, as well as splitting 6s against a dealer’s 2 to 6.
Splitting 9s against a dealer’s 2 to 6 and 8, 9 is generally recommended.
Recommended Strategies
When playing blackjack, certain strategies can be employed to increase the chances of winning. These strategies include:
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Splitting a pair of aces is always recommended, as there is a high chance of getting at least one blackjack.
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Splitting against a bust card (4, 5, or 6) is advisable, as the dealer busts around 29% of the time.
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Splitting a pair of 8s is always recommended, as hitting on a 16 has a 60% chance of busting.
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Splitting low pairs (2s, 3s, and 7s) against a dealer’s 7 or lower is advisable.
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Splitting 6s against a dealer’s 2 to 6 is recommended.
Basic Strategy and Gut Feel
Following basic strategy is always the right decision when playing blackjack, as it is important for using a counting card strategy and increases the chances of winning and fun.
Splitting pairs allows for more hands and more money wagered, and can lead to an immediate increase in win rate. It is also beneficial in the long-term.
Always split a pair of aces, as there is a high chance of getting at least one blackjack.
Splitting 8s gives the chance to improve the hand, and splitting low pairs (2s, 3s, and 7s) against a dealer’s 7 or lower is advisable.
Splitting 6s against a dealer’s 2 to 6 is recommended, as is splitting 9s against a dealer’s 2 to 6 and 8, 9. However, it is important to remember to hit instead of split if the dealer has a 7.
Additionally, gut feel also plays a part in when to split. Following basic strategy is key, but sometimes it is necessary to go with the flow and take advantage of a hot table.
Additional Information
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