Blackjack Hit or Stand Chart: When Should You Hit or Stand?

Blackjack is a favourite for many casino goers, whether playing online or in land-based casinos. A key aspect of the game is knowing when to hit or stand. Recognising the right moves can often improve your experience and keep you engaged in the game.

Continue reading this Dream Jackpot casino blog to learn more!

What Does Hit or Stand Mean In Blackjack?

In blackjack, you have two primary actions: hitting and standing.

When you choose to hit, you are asking the dealer for another card. You might do this to try to get closer to a total of 21 without going over. Each new card comes with its own risk, as it could push your total above 21.

Choosing to stand means you are satisfied with your current hand and do not want any more cards. You might opt to stand if you believe your hand is strong enough to possibly beat the dealer’s.

These fundamental choices are essential to understand and can shape your experience playing blackjack.

When To Hit In Blackjack

In blackjack, deciding when to hit is a crucial part of the game. According to basic strategy, there are certain situations where hitting might be advised.

For example, if your hand totals between 12 and 16 and the dealer’s visible card is 7 or higher, basic strategy often suggests hitting. This is because the dealer might have a better chance of reaching a stronger hand.

If your hand is below 11, hitting is generally thought to be a good idea since the risk of going over 21 is low.

Here’s a short run down:

  • Hit if your hand totals 8 or less.
  • Hit if your hand totals 12-16 and the dealer’s visible card is 7 or higher.
  • Hit if your hand totals 9, and the dealer’s visible card is 2 or 7 through Ace.
  • Hit if your hand totals 10, and the dealer’s visible card is 10 or Ace.
  • Hit if your hand totals 11, and the dealer’s visible card is Ace.

However, these are just guidelines aimed at making informed decisions. Ultimately, the choice of when to hit depends on how you prefer to play the game. Some may choose to hit more conservatively, while others might take more risks. It’s all about what you’re comfortable with.

When To Stand In Blackjack

In blackjack, deciding when to stand is just as important as knowing when to hit. Basic strategy often offers some useful advice here.

If your hand totals between 17 and 21, basic strategy generally suggests standing. This is because you’re already quite close to 21, and the risk of going over is high if you take another card.

If the dealer shows a card between 2 and 6, and your hand is between 12 and 16, standing might also be advisable. This is because the dealer has a higher chance of busting in these situations.

In summary:

  • Stand if your hand totals 17 or more.
  • Stand if your hand totals 13-16 and the dealer’s visible card is 2-6.
  • Stand if your hand totals 12 and the dealer’s visible card is 4-6.
  • Stand if you have a soft 19 (Ace and 8) or higher.
  • Stand if you have a soft 18 (Ace and 7) and the dealer’s visible card is 2, 7, or 8.

However, these guidelines are simply that—guidelines. The decision to stand ultimately comes down to your personal preference and how you enjoy the game. Some players might feel comfortable playing it safe, while others might want to take their chances for potentially better hands.

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When Should You Surrender In Blackjack?

Surrendering in blackjack is a specific option that’s not available in every variation of the game. When it is available, it allows you to forfeit your hand in exchange for getting back half of your original bet.

This option can be useful if your initial hand is weak against the dealer’s hand. For instance, if you have a total of 16 and the dealer has a 10 showing, some strategies suggest that surrendering might be less costly in the long run.

To know if this rule applies to a game you are playing, check the game’s rules or ask the dealer. Most online casinos and many land-based establishments provide clear rules that can specify whether surrender is an option.

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding, consider reading more about the specific blackjack variant you’re playing. Online casino websites and guides often have comprehensive information that can help you grasp the nuances of the game.

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