Are You Misplaying These Blackjack Hands?
Blackjack is one of the most played casino table games of all time and it’s great for beginners. However, not everyone knows how to play every single hand, meaning the casino actually has a higher edge, putting you at a disadvantage. So, to help you take back the upper hand we’re going to run through the most misplayed hands in blackjack.
If you pay attention, next time you play blackjack you will have the knowledge to handle these hands and hopefully walk away a winner. Sounds like a good plan? Let’s begin!
A Pair of Nines against a Nine
First up, we’re going to take a look at the hand where you’re dealt a pair of nines and the dealer shows a nine as their face up card. Now, most people think that 18 is a good hand, and while it’s not bad, there are much better hands in the game of blackjack. So, the best way to go is to split the two nines and take on the dealer with two hands instead of one. You will win more hands by splitting than by standing, so don’t be afraid to put your money on the line and split those nines!
Twelve Against a Three
A lot of people believe that when you’ve got a stiff hand and the dealer has a small card on show, then you should stand. But, believe it or not, it’s not always your best bet. With a 12, there are only four cards that can cause you to bust, compared to five cards that will get you in the 17 to 21 safe zone. So, if you’re dealt a 12 and the dealer has a three or other small card, hit – it’s your best shot at winning the hand and walking away a winner.
A Hard Sixteen Against a Ten
Everyone knows that a 16 is the worst hand you can get in blackjack, and it’s even worse when it’s a hard 16 – you can’t split it. Your most cost-effective play is to throw in the towel, wave the white flag and surrender. When you surrender, you lose 50% of your stake, but at the end of the hand you get the other 50% back. This gives you more chips to fight another day. Now, if the blackjack game you’re playing doesn’t offer this option, you’re only left with one choice – hit. You will lose slightly less often compared to standing, so give yourself the best shot at winning and hit.
A Soft Eighteen Against a Nine or Ten
Most players believe that 18 is a strong hand, but as we mentioned earlier it’s not that great. While it’s not a terrible hand like a 16, there is a lot to be desired, especially when up against a nine or 10. Our top advice is to hit, after all, you’ve got an out with the ace. You will win more of the time by hitting than standing, so don’t be afraid to hit and hope for a few small cards to get you up to a more respectable 19, 20 or 21.
Blackjack is all about knowing the odds and your chances of winning, so don’t feel you have to rush when playing blackjack. Take your time to think about your next move and how you can beat the dealer. As long as you don’t take too long, the dealer will let you think. Now you know how to play these blackjack hands, you’ll become unstoppable.
Go beat the casino, tiger!