Blackjack is an increasingly popular casino table game played between dealer and player that can provide both excitement and relaxation.
When betting against the dealer’s hand, players who feel confident their hand will beat his can double their original bet (known as “doubling down”). Certain casinos allow this strategy and some even permit splitting pairs (such as two 8s).
Game rules
At the start of a game, players place their chips into their betting boxes. A dealer then deals out two cards – one being face up while one (known as the hole card) is face down – to each player and himself; after everyone has acted, after which time their hole card will be revealed and continued drawing until reaching 17 or higher if their unbusted hand surpasses that of the dealer and wins outright.
Game rules allow players to double their bet on pairs of 10s or face cards, although splitting these cards could reduce your chance of getting blackjack and increase the probability of a 20.
Rules of insurance
Insurance in blackjack is an optional side bet that pays two to one if the dealer shows an ace face up. Offered before revealing his or her hole card, insurance should generally not be used by basic strategy players; however if your deck contains plenty of tens and you are an adept card counter it could prove profitable.
Before playing blackjack, it’s essential that you understand the rules of insurance. Doing so will enable you to avoid making bad decisions that lead to larger losses over time. Also avoid flirting with dealers or waitresses as this could get you banned from the game; rather tip generously instead – they work hard so that your experience will be memorable!
