There is a very good reason that Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games. It is one of the easiest games to play. There is always a house edge, but you will have relatively good odds if you stick to our simple rules.
Knowing when to hit, stand, split and double down your hand will cut the house edge by half. Following our Blackjack strategy will not guarantee a win but will certainly provide a good insight into the game. And hopefully, you play a lot better with it.
Although it’s easy to become good at Blackjack very quickly – don’t get carried away and stick to the basics.
Blackjack Guide
- Check the dealer’s up card – The Dealers up card will make a huge difference to your choices.
- Don’t sit in the first base seat – It is a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to check your hand against the dealer’s up card. So sit further down the table.
- Start Small – Always work out how the dealer is playing, and once you have worked this out, you can adjust your game.
- It is just you against the Dealer – Stay focused on the game and not what the other players on the table are doing. You are only playing against the dealer.
- Don’t get burned – Always know what your limit is. Set a cap on what you can lose and no limit on what you can win.
- If you’re on a losing streak, move on – Numerous surveys over the years have found that 75 percent of players in a casino will be winning at some point, but only 4 percent go home a winner.
Blackjack ‘Hit’ and ‘Stand’ Guide
Below is a simple Blackjack ‘Hit’ and ‘Stand’ guide. You can print this out and keep it on your computer if you’re playing blackjack online or even playing at the casinos.
It shows the correct play for every type of hand you might encounter when playing Blackjack.
We also have other guides to playing Blackjack. Why not try our ‘Card Counting‘ guide and our free guide to the basics of good Blackjack play?
If you want to play Blackjack but don’t feel ready to take on the real casinos, then give my free Blackjack game a go! You’ll find it further down this page.
The Game Hunter Guide to Blackjack
Blackjack Basics
The Split
Blackjack – Doubling Down
Five Top Tips
Blackjack Basics Instructional Video
The video below is a few years old, but Blackjack doesn’t change, so it’s still very relevant today. It’s so popular that over 2.7 million people have watched it. Steve Bourie is the author of the American Casino Guide. Here, he interviews Michael “Wizard of Odds” Shackleford about blackjack.
Mike answers some of the most common questions that players have about the game. Plus, he gives tips on how players can choose the best games, use the proper strategies and take advantage of the casino comping system.
If you want to start playing Blackjack for real, there are plenty of reputable and trustworthy online casinos with great tables. Check out Betfred Casino for a great new customer welcome offer today.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Taking Insurance
Taking insurance is a side bet that players can make if the dealer’s upcard is an ace. While taking insurance may seem like a good idea, it is actually a bad bet in the long run, as the odds are not in the player’s favour.
Playing Based on Intuition
Playing based on intuition or hunches is not a good strategy in blackjack. Instead, players should make decisions based on the mathematical probabilities of each outcome.
Chasing Losses
Chasing losses is a common mistake players make in all types of gambling. It is important to remember that luck plays a significant role in blackjack, and it is not always possible to win. Chasing losses can lead to even greater losses, and it is best to walk away from the game if you find yourself in a losing streak.
Hit & Stand Blackjack Guide: FAQ
Q: Can I count cards in blackjack?
A: While card counting is not illegal, it is frowned upon by casinos and can result in being asked to leave the premises.
Q: What is the best strategy for blackjack?
A: The best strategy for blackjack is to make decisions based on the mathematical probabilities of each outcome.
Q: How can I practice my blackjack skills?
A: There are many online resources and mobile apps that allow you to practice playing blackjack for free.
Q: How do I know when to split in blackjack?
A: Players typically choose to split when they have a pair of aces or a pair of 8s, and the dealer’s upcard is weak.
Q: What should I do if the dealer’s upcard is an ace?
A: If the dealer’s upcard is an ace, players can choose to take insurance or not. However, taking insurance is generally not a good bet in the long run.
Q: How do I know when to double down in blackjack?
A: Players typically choose to double down when their hand value is 9, 10, or 11, and the dealer’s upcard is weak.
Conclusion
Blackjack is a fun and exciting game that allows players to use strategy to improve their chances of winning. Knowing when to hit, stand, split, or double down can make a big difference in the game’s outcome.
By following the strategies outlined in this Hit & Stand Blackjack Guide, you can improve your gameplay and increase your chances of winning. Remember to avoid common mistakes like taking insurance or playing based on intuition, and always make decisions based on the mathematical probabilities of each outcome.
With practice and patience, you can become a skilled blackjack player and potentially win big at the casino. So, get ready to hit and stand your way to a winning hand!