Blackjack can be a fast game. As fast as it raises you up, it can take you down. Whether you play Blackjack in a casino in the real world or online, play is pretty much the same. Online Blackjack gives you the advantage of speed. You don’t need to wait for dealers to shuffle and deal or players to act—unless playing multiplayer Blackjack online.
That said, here are some fast Blackjack tactics that can be applied anywhere. Hopefully, you’ll find them useful.
Bankroll
Simply put, you need to budget your gambling money. Don’t just show up with an “open account” and start wagering. Every time you visit the casino, have a set amount in mind that you’ll willing to lose. And keep to it should the unfortunate happen.
Bet Right
If you have a $100 bankroll, don’t go playing $25 hands. In theory, you want to bet about 1/20th of your bankroll (1/40th if being really conservative). This is why setting up a bankroll is important. It’s okay to bet a little higher now and then, but never bet the farm on one hand.
Never Splits 10s / Faces
You have 20, the second best hand in the game. Never split 10s or faces, it’s just stupid. Don’t be greedy. That type of player loses far more than he or she wins. Be happy with your 20 and take it to the bank—even if the dealer has a 6 showing.
Always Split 8s – Not
Most Blackjack books say to always split 8’s. Do it if you want, but if the dealer is showing a 10 and I know there are big cards in the deck, I’m not doing it. Why get screwed twice in one hand?
Here’s a great rule for Blackjack: there are no “always” rules.
Double Down on 11
Ah, the famous rule that even non-Blackjack players know. Of course, most everyone says that you should “always” double down on 11. See the last rule for my theory on that. Yes, you can do it and you’ll do okay, but I’m not a greedy player. If the dealer has a 10 showing, I’d rather just hit and take my regular winnings if I win and lose my regular amount if the hand goes that way.
Take Even Money
Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth. If you have Blackjack and the dealer asks for insurance, take the even money payoff and move on. Think about this. You’re risking 100% of a wager (tie) to gain a 50% bonus. It doesn’t make mathematical sense. Just take your bet and move on.
There you have it. These are Blackjack tactics that you can use at any table in the world. Have fun playing Blackjack. I wish you the best of luck. Don’t split those 10s and faces!
