The blackjack table is the most recognizable table game in most physical casinos. This table is designed to accommodate any number of players from seven to 12. However, the most remarkable thing about this game is that, regardless of the number of players at the table, the blackjack odds table strategy still favors the house.
Blackjack might be the most accessible casino table game, but that does not mean it is easy to play. This article shows how you can successfully protect your wager and beat the dealer at his own game.Â
Follow us as we discuss the blackjack strategy table, rules, hand signals, and bet plays.
Casino Blackjack Table: A Description
Blackjack tables are simple constructs, but their use is technical. This game does not require much noise or talking, so if anyone wants to communicate a bet or decision during the game, they use the table to signal the dealer.
The table can vary according to size and design. The most common table for blackjack games is designed for seven players and the dealer, who stands behind the table. Each player takes space behind the boxes on the table, and when they are ready to make their bets, they place the money or chips inside the box.
Bets and cards are placed openly for the cameras and other players because players do not play against each other in a blackjack game. Instead, the game aims to beat the dealer. By implication, this means there can be more than one winner during the game (though it rarely happens).
Blackjack Table: Types of Tables Available
The number of places available differentiates tables used in blackjack games. Most tables are designed in a semi-circle. The players sit in the circular areas while the dealers occupy the other side.Â
The table has seven openings in a classic blackjack game, while modern table designs can go up to 12. The design or color of the table does not increase or decrease your chance of winning. Though some new players may tell you that playing as a team increases your odds of winning, you should know that the blackjack odds table gives the house better chances of winning.
Blackjack Strategy Table: How Table Decisions Can Help You
Can table positions affect the way you play in Blackjack? The answer depends on who youâre asking. But in most casino table games like poker, your position at the table can offer a slight advantage against other players.
However, remember that Blackjack is a game against the dealer. So you have no business counting or watching the cards of other players. The only advantage your sitting position at the table offers is the view of the entire table and the timing of the decision.
Most experienced players mention three table positions as suitable for all players. The positions are the first seat, next to the shoe, after that is the center of the table (also known as shortstop). Then, the anchor seat is for the last player.
The first seat gives you the advantage of being the first to receive the card and the first to act. It also gives a perfect view of the table and the discard pile. The second position, at the center of the table, only provides you with a perfect view of the table.Â
At the same time, the third position at the anchor seat gives you a view of the entire table and a lot of time to decide.
It is important to note that the advantage table positions give you is almost negligible, as it is not enough to erase the dealerâs edge over the players. So, without an incredible blackjack strategy, you may still lose.
Blackjack Table: How to Play
Blackjack is one of the best casino games because it has few rules and straightforward gameplay. If youâre looking to play Blackjack, whether online casinos, here are the descriptions of rounds and hand signals involved in the game:
Player buys chips
The first round of playing is the most essential thing in physical casinos. Most casinos donât support cash bets or wagers, so you must cash in the dollar notes for casino chips if you want to play the game.
You can cash in your notes by placing them on the tableâs felt. If you attempt to hand it to the dealer, they will not collect it.
After laying it on the table, the dealer will spread it out for the cameras to see the amount. Another casino employee will come to verify the amount physically. Then, the dealer will count out chips of commensurate value with the cash you handed in and push it to you.
Place a wager
The placing of the wager signals the formal start of the game. Most casinos require at least a $5 minimum wager. To place a wager, take the chips you want to bet and place them inside the box or circle in front of you.
If you donât know the minimum and maximum wagers allowed in the casino, look to the side of the table, and youâll see small scribbles with the information you need.
The dealer deals with the cards.
The process of dealing with the cards is pretty straightforward. The dealer deals from the shoe. Each player gets a card face up, while the dealer gets his first card face down. On the second deal round, the dealer deals all cards face up.
So, everyone on the table has their cards face up, except the dealer, who has one card face up and the other face down.
The player decides how to play his hand.
After the first two cards have been dealt, it’s time to play the game. The dealer will start from the player at the first base. To play your hand, you need to add the value of the two cards together and get a hand value from 4 to 21.Â
If you have a blackjack from your first two cards, youâll immediately be paid 1.5 times your wager. However, if the dealer also has a blackjack, youâll not be paid anything or lose your wager. This situation is called a PUSH.
If nobody has a blackjack, the dealer will point at each player in succession, and youâll decide how to play your hand. It would be best to understand that voice commands will not be heeded, so you must learn the appropriate hand signals.
Dealer plays hand
After all the players have played their hands, it is the turn of the dealer to reveal and play his hand, too. The dealer does this by simply revealing his down card and adding them together.Â
It is important to note that the dealer is restricted from splitting, doubling, or surrendering during the game. The only exception is if the dealer has a soft 17; that is an ace and a six. The ace can count as a one or an 11. So the dealer can decide to split and take additional cards.
Without that exception, if the dealerâs hand value is 17 or higher, they will automatically take a stand. If it is 16 or lower, they may take additional cards. After these situations, the dealer does not have much leeway in how he/she plays their hands.
Payouts
This round is the final blackjack table round. At this point, the dealer will decide whether it is a burst or a stand.
If the dealer bursts, youâll be paid 1 times your wager. But if the dealer stands, it becomes a competition for the higher hand value. If the dealer has a higher hand value, he/she will sweep all wagers, but if you have a higher hand, youâll be paid 1 times your wager.
Casino Blackjack Table: Hand Signals
Stand
If youâre okay with the first two cards and donât want more, you should do the âstandâ signal by waving your hand or putting an open palm over the felt.
Hit
To hit means you want more cards. Thereâs no limit to the number of cards you can get. So the dealer will deal you more cards one at a time until you stand or go over 21 (burst). To do the hit signal, tap your fingers on the felt.
Double Down
Doubling down in a blackjack game means you have a good hand and would like an additional card to improve it. Once you signify your intention to double down, the dealer will give you an additional card, but it will be turned sideways to show you cannot take more cards.
To double down, place a wager equal to your original one on the left side of your bet. The dealer will give you an additional card after seeing this.
Split
A split is possible when you have two cards of equal value. For instance, if your two cards are both 3s, you can split the card and take an additional card on both. This blackjack strategy table gives you a better chance of winning the game.
To show a split, put a wager of equal value to your first wager on the table and make a peace sign to show the dealer that you want to split, not double down.
Surrender
If you donât like your initial hand, you can give it up and collect half of your original wager. Doing this requires you to surrender and retire from the game.
The surrender hand signal is to draw a line on the felt. You should also call out âsurrenderâ so the dealer does not mistake it for a hit signal.
Blackjack Table Rules
You donât need more blackjack table rules than youâve seen above. You have to understand and master the hand signal before playing. Also, keep an eye on the dealerâs hands and plays. Some dealers make unintentional mistakes you miss because youâre studying other players.
Remember, there are conditions where you can beat the dealer. They are:
- By drawing a hand value that is higher than the dealerâs hand value.
- The dealer draws a hand value that is over 21.
- Drawing a blackjack (21) on your first two hands while the dealer does not.
Counting Blackjack Odds Table
The most important part of playing Blackjack is being able to calculate your hand. While some cards have their values written on them, others, like J, K, Q, etc., have unique values depending on the situation.
The cards 2 through 10 have their numbers written on them, so there can be clarity regarding their value when calculating your hand. Cards like J, Q, and K count as 10. Meanwhile, Ace counts as either 1 or 11, depending on which suits the player.
FAQ
How many players can play at a blackjack table?
The number of players in a blackjack game can go from 5 to as many as 12 people.
How much money should you bring to a casino blackjack table?
That depends on the casino. Some casinos accept as low as $5 and as much as $100.
How do you cash out in a blackjack game?
To cash out, you need to beat the dealer by getting a hand value that is higher and not over 21.
What is the best seat at a blackjack table?
The seat does not affect the game, so that you can sit anywhere.
Where can I get a blackjack table for sale?
You can get blackjack tables for sale at eBay and other e-commerce stores.
How complicated are blackjack table rules?
Blackjack game rules are relatively easy to know.
Where can I play free blackjack games?
You can play blackjack games for free at online casinos like Blue Dragon, Bitplay and some mobile casinos like the Riversweeps app.
Conclusion
You donât need to find a blackjack table for sale sign before you can learn how to play the game. Online casinos like Bitplay and Blue Dragon offer free blackjack games for new and existing players. So, register on Bitplay to begin playing Blackjack.