Special Rules in Blackjack
Lesson description
Casinos sometimes apply restrictions on blackjack moves to keep the odds in their favor. Learn what these special rules are and how they affect your winnings with Mr Blackjack.
What this lesson covers
- Why some casinos do not offer surrender or double down
- Restrictions on splitting hands
- Why casinos restrict hitting on split Aces
- How casinos reduce 3:2 payouts on blackjack
Episodes
FAQs
What are good blackjack rules?
The best blackjack rules are generally those that are most liberal for players. These include: unlimited splits, surrender, doubling down, let you split Aces and receive 3:2 payouts on all split hands.
What is the normal payout for blackjack?
The standard payout for blackjack is 3:2. Some casinos offer 6:5 payouts which players should avoid, as casinos are giving them smaller winnings for the same blackjack odds.
Do casinos lose money on blackjack? Is that why they apply special rules?
Casinos accrue huge amounts of money on blackjack. This is not because the game is rigged, but due to players not checking these special rules that give the casino the advantage. Smart players always know to check with the dealer on a blackjack game’s table rules before sitting down.
Is it ever smart to surrender in blackjack?
There are occasions in blackjack when surrendering is the best approach. If your hand has extremely low odds of winning against the dealer, it’s better to lose half your wager than all of it on a bad hand to the dealer. A hard 15 vs a dealer 10 is a good example of when you should surrender.
How many times can I split in blackjack?
Many online casinos and blackjack tables at brick-and-mortar casinos will allow players a maximum of three splits during their turn, which essentially makes four hands.
How can I find blackjack games with lenient rules for players?
The dealer should tell you which rules apply for their blackjack table. As for online blackjack games, you can find these in the info tab or pay table in the game.
Do blackjack table rules change throughout the day and evening?
In places like Vegas, which is a popular tourist and gambling destination, casinos will change the rules on their blackjack tables throughout the day. They may offer bigger payouts on blackjack during quiet afternoons to attract tourists. At night, when players visit casinos more frequently, the casinos may add more restrictions.
