Blackjack Odds; the Important Facts

Even new players know that the casino edge in Blackjack is quite low compared with other card games, but to be able to take full advantage of this, you must also know exactly what the odds are in relation to the rules being adopted for the game.

For example the reason why it is always recommended that you play in a single deck is that the Blackjack odds go up significantly for the player, as the casino edge is only 0.5%. Here are a few more variations and the accompanying odds.

Five Card Charlie

The basic principle behind Five Card Charlie is that the hand wins if it doesn't go over with five cards, there is no split and the dealer doesn't hold a 21. Six Card and Seven Card Charlie have the same provisions. The Blackjack odds for the players here is +1.46% for 5 Card, +0.16% and +0.01% for Six and Seven Cards, respectively.

6-5 Payout

A common mistake made by new players is falling for the 6-5 game. The reason is that this is often used in single deck games, which usually favors the player. However, with the 6:5 rule, the Blackjack odds for the house go up anywhere from 1.23% to 1.44%. This is a table that you should avoid.

The No Peek Rule

This is a rule that is used by several online sites and some casinos in Europe which stipulates that the dealer won't look at her hole card to check if she has a Blackjack. The disadvantage for the player is that if the dealer does have a 21, he loses his bet, and any additional wagers that he may have in the process. This can result in a return of -0.01% to -0.10%.

Other Blackjack odds that can reduce the player's edge includes losing when both hands have 17-21, which depending on the casino, can mean anywhere from -0.22% to -8.86%. Some venues also impose restrictions on the hands that you can double down with (9, 10 or 11 only), or not being permitted to double after a split. Some venues do not even allow a surrender, so you should check this out.

If it seems that the key to winning in Blackjack rests in getting the numbers right, it is. Fortunately, it's not as difficult as it seems, as the casinos have these figures posted on the table. Read the fine print, and you'll be all right.

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