Blackjack is one of the most popular games played in casinos worldwide. The accessibility of the game and the strategic alternatives it offers are two reasons for this. One of the most important strategies in blackjack is knowing when to split your hands. This decision might determine the victor or the vanquished.
In this article, we’ll cover the basics of when you should split in Blackjack, using specific examples to guide you.
What Does It Mean to Split in Blackjack?
Splitting in Blackjack happens when you are dealt two cards of the same value. Instead of playing them as one hand, you can split them into two hands. You’ll need to place an additional bet equal to your original wager, but each hand will be played separately.
For example:
- I’m dealing you two 8s. They can be divided into two hands.
- If you get another 8 on one hand and a 3 on the other, you play each hand separately, making decisions based on the new cards.
Knowing when to split gives you an edge, but it’s crucial to understand which pairs you should split and which ones you shouldn’t.
Basic Blackjack Splitting Strategy
Here are the general rules for when you should split in Blackjack:
Always Split Aces and 8s
- Aces: When you get a pair of Aces, you should always split. A pair of Aces gives you a good chance of making strong hands. For example, if you split Aces and get a 10 on each, you’ll have two 21s, which is a great result.
- 8s: A pair of 8s is one of the worst hands you can have in Blackjack (16), but it’s also one of the best pairs to split. Splitting them allows you to potentially turn both hands into winning hands.
Never Split 10s or Face Cards
- 10s or Face Cards: A pair of 10s (or two face cards like Kings or Queens) is a strong hand (20). Splitting these is a bad move. The chances of improving your hand are slim, and you’ll most likely end up with weaker hands.
Split 2s, 3s, and 7s Against Weak Dealer Upcards
- 2s and 3s: You should divide your two or three cards given to you if the dealer shows a four, five, or six. You can strengthen your hand by splitting, and the dealer’s cards aren’t very strong.
- 7s:If the dealer presents 2 through 7, then split the pair of 7s. You should probably keep both hands together if the dealer has a better card.
Split 6s When the Dealer Shows 3-6
- 6s:Playing with two 6s is no picnic. Assuming the dealer is displaying a3,4,5, or 6, divide the 6s. The dealer has weak cards here, so dividing your 6s is a good move.
Don’t Split 4s, 5s, or 9s
- 4s: A pair of 4s is not a great starting hand. You should not split them. Instead, hit to improve your hand.
- 5s: A pair of 5s totals 10, which is a strong hand. You should double down instead of splitting to take advantage of your opportunity to get a 10 or 11 and possibly score 21.
- 9s: You shouldn’t always split a pair of 9s either. If the dealer presents a 2 through 6, or an 8, or a 9, then you should only split 9s. Holding the 9s together is the superior strategy when the dealer has a 4, 10, or Ace.
What to Do When You Can’t Split
If you don’t have a pair, you must play the hand based on your total value. Here’s a quick rundown of what to do with your hands:
- Hard Hands (No Aces or Pairs): If your hand total is 12–16 and the dealer shows a 7 or higher, you should hit. If the dealer shows a 2–6, you should stand.
- Soft Hands (Aces Included): If you have a soft 13 to 18 (for example, Ace-2, Ace-3, etc.), you should stand if the dealer has a 4 through 6, but hit if they have a 7 or higher.
When to Use the Baccarat Sure Win Formula in Blackjack?
While Blackjack and Baccarat are different games, some Blackjack players use strategies similar to the Baccarat sure win formula. For instance, understanding the dealer’s tendencies can give you an edge. If you’re familiar with the Baccarat strategy of betting on patterns, you might also be aware of patterns in Blackjack, such as:
- Dealer’s Upcard: In Baccarat, you might bet on the banker due to better odds. In Blackjack, the dealer’s upcard is vital in determining when to split or double down.
- Card Counting: Although it’s not allowed in all casinos, card counting in Blackjack works in a similar way to the Baccarat sure win formula. It can give you an idea of whether the deck is in your favor for splitting or standing.
Final Thoughts on When to Split in Blackjack
- Remember: Splitting is a strategy that depends on the pair you’re dealt and the dealer’s upcard.
- Know the Numbers: The key to Blackjack is maximizing your chances to win. Always split Aces and 8s. Never split 10s.
- Adjust for the Dealer: You should modify your strategy based on what the dealer shows with their upcard.
By using these rules and understanding the basic splitting strategy, you can enhance your chances of success in Blackjack. Keep practicing, and over time, you’ll get more comfortable with the different scenarios you face at the table.
