Hands You Should Always Split in Blackjack

New Jersey online casinos can provide players with a couple of variations of blackjack. Even so, the basic blackjack strategy will apply to almost all variations, especially when it comes to the basic betting options. One such option is the so-called splitting, a betting decision that becomes available once you receive a pair of cards.

However, many players who join an online casino in the US are not familiar with the proper strategies and tactics for playing blackjack. For that reason, we came up with this quick guide. As you go through it, you will learn all there is to know about the hands you should always split in blackjack. As a result, your blackjack sessions could even bring millions of dollars your way.

How to split a pair in blackjack

Splitting a pair of cards in blackjack is one of the most common moves you will make when playing the game. After all, a deck of cards comes with a large number of cards that have the same numerical value. In other words, mathematical probability says that cards of the same value could often find themselves next to each other.

So, when you receive a pair of 6s or a pair of Aces, you could decide to divide the two cards into two separate hands. Each of those new hands will be independent, and the action continues with you being in control of two new hands. Also, it is important to mention that players need to place an additional wager when they split. To clarify, you need to double the initial bet to cover for the new hand as well.

When to split in blackjack

In essence, splitting is a great method for improving weak hands and for getting more money into the mix. By doubling the bet size, players will also boost the excitement levels of the game. Of course, if you risk more – you could win more. But you could also lose twice as much, which means that splitting is not a decision that should be taken lightly. Therefore, let’s take a look at the situations in which you should split:

Always split a pair of Eights

A pair of 8s results in 16, and we all know that 16 is notorious for being ‘the worst hand in blackjack’. In fact, most American players have a phobia of getting 16 in blackjack. The reason for such resentment comes from the fact that 16 is one of the so-called stiff hands, a hand that leaves you in no man’s land. On the other hand, if you decide to split the pair, two 8s can provide you with decent odds of earning a few dollars.

Always split Aces

Likewise, blackjack players should never hesitate when it comes to splitting a pair of Aces. In other words, you should always split Aces because such a move can result in great odds for winning the hand. To clarify, two Aces that are used as one hand will result in the so-called soft 12. The soft 12 is a terrible hand because only 9 can lead you to 21. But, if you decide to split, your two new hands will provide a wide array of options. Furthermore, you could get two ten-value cards (10, J, Q, or K) to create two separate blackjacks.

Always re-split Aces and Eights

The logic behind re-splitting Aces or Eights remains the same as the one we explained in the propositions listed above. If you receive such a pair after the initial split, you should split again, without a doubt. Yet, not all New Jersey online casinos will allow re-splitting. So, we suggest that you take a peek at our casino reviews section before joining a casino and starting to play blackjack for real money.

Other situations to consider when playing blackjack

In all of the above-mentioned scenarios, American players should split without having a second thought. Yet, some situations will not be as crystal clear as the ones we mentioned. In other words, sometimes you should split pairs only of the dealer’s card is low. For instance, the players should split a pair of 2s, 3s, or 7s when the dealer is showing one of the weak cards (2 through 7). Similarly, you should split 6s if the dealer’s upcard is weak (2 through 6).

On top of that, there are certain situations when you should not even think about splitting. To clarify, players should NEVER split a pair of 4s, 5s, or 10s. By deciding to split, players would sacrifice those powerful hands in exchange for weak positions. Therefore, avoid making this classic rookie mistake and never split a pair of 4s, 5s, or 10s. Instead, treat them as one hand and act accordingly.

Summary

Online blackjack is a thrilling game of chance, a game that can offer plenty of excitement and enjoyment. Even so, you can make blackjack more profitable by deploying the right tactics at the right time. For that reason, it is imperative that you know which hands you should always split in blackjack. Once you master this skill, blackjack sessions at some of the best US online casinos could reward you with thousands of dollars.

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