Ace Tracking
Lesson description
Ace tracking is an essential skill for card counting. Learn how this technique will help you identify when you have the advantage in the game with Mr Blackjack.
What this lesson covers
- How Ace tracking works
- When Ace tracking gives you an advantage
- How it helps you when counting cards
Episodes
FAQs
What is Ace tracking in blackjack?
Ace tracking means you monitor the number of Aces in the shoe in blackjack. This tactic tells you how many chances you have left in the game to make blackjack.
Is Ace tracking and Ace sequencing the same thing?
While they have similar names and focuses, tracking and sequencing have different functions. Ace tracking is keeping count of how many Aces are in the deck so you know your chances of hitting blackjack. Ace sequencing is a form of shuffle tracking, and tries to predict when an Ace will be dealt by following what 2-4 cards preceded it.
Do casinos ever remove Aces from the shoe?
There are only two occasions when casinos might remove Aces: in a blackjack variant or if they’re cheating. If a casino surreptitiously removes Aces and tens this is called ‘shorting’ the shoe. Casinos already have the advantage so it is unlikely they would short the deck.
What is an Ace when counting cards?
Under the Hi-Lo counting system, an Ace is -1.
What is the Ace Five-Count?
Ace Five-Count is a simplified card counting system. Instead of counting all cards in a blackjack game, you only count Aces and 5s. Aces are worth -1 and 5s +1. When a new shoe begins the count starts at zero. If the count is greater than or equal to two, you double your wager. If the count is less than or equal to one, keep to the minimum bet.
Do Aces change value when card counting like they do in blackjack?
An Ace always has a value of -1 when card counting using the Hi-Lo system. This doesn’t change, as the removal of the Ace from the shoe has a negative affect on the count.
When does Ace tracking work best?
Ace tracking is most effective in blackjack games where the shoe is played through. As you come towards the end of the shoe and few Aces have been dealt, you have better odds of getting blackjack.
