Having a simple plan or strategy in place can increase the chances of success in any type of game, but it is true that there are specific times during blackjack when to hit.
There are so many blackjack rules when to hit, considering the fine details and odds that come with the game itself. Having just a very simple and basic understanding, including times in blackjack when does dealer hit or has to stand, can improve your odds at success.
Have the best strategy in place and know when to hit and stand in a statistical sense, understanding precisely how to know when to hit or stay in blackjack. Let’s explore the basics first and foremost.
While many casinos see players playing blackjack at an incredibly fast pace, breaking down and slowing down the game itself is a great way to both learn and succeed in the fine art of blackjack. In fact, some players move at such a fast pace it can feel a lot more confusing than it really is.
Don’t worry, let’s explore the basics along with some strategies to help promote success.
Blackjack When To Hit: Exploring The Basics
The goal of blackjack cards is simple in that the individual plays against the dealer, attempting to get as close to 21 without going over. Should the sum of the player’s cards be higher than the dealer’s cards, without going over 21, the player wins.
Players are dealt two cards that are added up, and the player is then given the option to hit or stand. Depending on the sum of the two cards, a player may wish to be dealt another card in order to get as close to 21 as possible. The only challenge is that a hit may send your accumulated cards over 21, resulting in the player folding and losing.
Similarly, if the sum of the two cards is potentially lower than the sum of the dealer’s cards, the player will also lose. Players are shown just one card from the dealer’s hand, known as the up-card.
So, when do you hit in blackjack?
At times when the player has two cards that are equal to 8 and under, the player should hit. However, if the dealer has a high card, like a face card, and your hand is 14 or under, players should consider hitting in order to beat the dealer’s hand.
Blackjack When To Hit: Keeping In Mind Probability
The strategy above considers the frequency of face cards in blackjack decks, and depending on how many decks of cards are being used, the odds may change. It does not guarantee that you will win any hand but optimizes your chances of winning.
Understanding Soft Blackjack Hands
But wait, there is more! Just like many casino games, there are subtle rules that make the game fun or more challenging. It is the same in blackjack, and understanding the nature of soft blackjack hands can help you win.
When players are dealt an ace, the hand becomes soft, as the ace is worth either 1 or 11. A hand with an ace has two possible sums, meaning that the player could hit again when they have a soft hand. A hand without an ace would be considered a hard hand.
Soft 13-15 Blackjack Hands
A soft hand of 13 to 15 would include an ace, along with 2, 3, or 4. The player can choose to stand on a soft hand or have the option to hit again because the dual nature of a soft 13 means that the hand is worth either 13, or 2.
Soft 16-18 Blackjack Hands
A soft hand of 16, 17, or 18, means that the player has an ace along with a 5,6, or 7. These hands have two possible sums, allowing the player to either stand or attempt to hit and receive a card that is even closer to 21.
Soft 19 or Higher Blackjack Hands
Soft hands of 19 or higher means that the player has an ace, along with an 8 or 9. Here, the player is very close to 21 but has the opportunity to hit and receive another card without losing. As for having an ace and a face card, well that is blackjack, and you win!
Blackjack When To Stand:
The general rule for blackjack is that should your hand have a total of 17 or higher, the player should stand. However, it is important to consider that always staying on 17 or higher never ensures success, you could still lose if the dealer is closer to 21. It truly depends on the upcard that the dealer has. Typically, if the dealer has a high up card like a face card or an ace, then they are more likely to be closer to 21 than the player.
Since there are more face cards than any other card in the deck, the chances of hitting and receiving a low card like a 3 or a 4 is simply less likely than receiving a face card.
Blackjack Hands: Here is The Blackjack When To Hit Chart
Here is a very simple chart to help you decide when to hit or stand in blackjack.
- 8 or under: hit
- 9: hit
- 10: hit
- 11: hit
- 12: hit, but stand if the dealer has a 4, 5, or 6.
- 13-16: stand, but hit if the dealer has a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6.
- 17-21: stand.
Blackjack Strategies
The truth is that these rules can help to promote success, the game itself is still based on chance, and you could lose even if you carefully follow these rules. Sometimes, luck will be on your side, and sometimes, not so much. This is just a beginner’s guide for playing blackjack, and players should also explore the concepts of spilling, doubling down, and understanding when dealers hit in blackjack.
The rules and fine details of when the dealer has to hit can vary between each platform or establishment, so ensure you have taken the time to know the rules and any variations that are unique to each individual game. It never hurts to ask if you are confused or explore the rules outlined with each game, often found online or within the establishment’s terms and conditions.
Before you ever play, dictate your limits and set amounts that are reasonable and unique to you. Play only with what you are willing and able to lose comfortably, and always play the game with a clear mind, free from distraction. Some of the very best blackjack players in the world still set limits to their play, helping them make the most of the experience and avoid disappointment.
Of course, remember to have fun and enjoy the game itself while learning the subtle rules and differences that are often part of the experience. Don’t miss out on our live blackjack experience right here at OMG Casino.
