If it’s a hard 16, then there’s not much you can do to improve your odds, so it doesn’t really matter whether you stand or hit - you’re likely going to lose anyway. The basic strategy implies that you should stand on totals of 17, 18, 19, and 20, regardless of what the dealer has.Īs for 16, there is no set rule on what to do, as it all depends on the hand composition. Learn When To Hit or Stand in Blackjackīy indicating you want to stand, you are basically asking for a showdown with the dealer, confident that you can beat him with your total. Side bet availability should also be factored in (for example, surrender is an advisable action when the dealer’s up card is an Ace or 10).ĭecisions on whether to hit or stand are outlined in the basic strategy, which can be helpful, especially if you’re a beginner. Soft hands are those that comprise an ace, while hard hands are made of other cards. Hand composition (the concept of soft and hard hands) is also important. These include the number of decks and house rules (whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17).

However, things are not so black and white because there are external factors to consider. Mathematically, it makes sense to stand if your total is high (close to 21) and hit when your hand is of low value. You can opt to hit for as long as you don’t go bust (exceed 21).

By hitting, you’re asking for an additional card to improve your total and your chances against the dealer’s hand. Hit - Hit is the exact opposite of stand.This means that you’re confident that your hand will beat the dealer during the showdown.

Stand - When you stand in blackjack, you’re refusing to take any more cards and holding your total.Hit and stand are the most important ones, and each involves the following: After you’re dealt the initial two cards in blackjack, you’ll be presented with several playing actions based on the format of the game.

What is a hard hand in blackjack