Blackjack is a popular card game that has been played for centuries. It is a game of chance that involves skill and strategy.
One of the most commonly debated rules in blackjack is whether or not a dealer can hit on 17. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of this rule and provide you with all the information you need to know.
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What is Blackjack?
Before we dive into the specifics of hitting on 17, let’s first establish what blackjack actually is. Blackjack is a card game in which players try to get as close to 21 points as possible without going over.
Each player receives two cards, and they can choose to receive more cards (hit) or stick with their current hand (stand). The goal is to beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21.
The Rules of Blackjack
In order to understand whether or not a dealer can hit on 17, it’s important to first understand the basic rules of blackjack. The rules may vary slightly depending on where you’re playing, but here are some general guidelines:
- Each player receives two cards.
- The dealer also receives two cards, one face-up and one face-down.
- Ace cards are worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on which value helps the player’s hand more.
- Face cards (king, queen, jack) are worth 10 points each.
- All other cards are worth their face value.
The Dealer’s Hand
One of the unique aspects of blackjack is that players do not play against each other – they play against the dealer. This means that whatever actions the dealer takes will affect all players at the table.
In most casinos, dealers must follow strict rules when it comes to their hand. They must hit (receive another card) if their hand is worth 16 points or less.
If their hand is worth 17 points or more, they must stand (keep their current hand). However, there are some variations to this rule that we will explore in more detail.
Can a Dealer Hit on 17?
So, can a dealer hit on 17 in blackjack? The answer is: it depends.
In most casinos, dealers are required to stand on all hands worth 17 points or more. This means that if the dealer’s hand has a total value of exactly 17 points (for example, a hand consisting of a queen and a seven), they cannot hit and must stand.
However, there are some casinos that allow dealers to hit on soft 17. A soft 17 is a hand that contains an ace card that is currently worth 11 points.
For example, if the dealer’s hand consists of an ace and a six, the ace can be worth either one point or eleven points. If the dealer chooses to count the ace as eleven points, their hand would be considered a soft 17.
In casinos that allow dealers to hit on soft 17, the dealer would receive another card if their hand contains an ace worth eleven points and one or more other cards totaling six points. This means that even if the dealer’s hand adds up to exactly 17 points with an ace included, they may still choose to hit.
Why Do Some Casinos Allow Dealers to Hit on Soft 17?
The reason why some casinos allow dealers to hit on soft 17 is because it gives them a slight advantage over players. Hitting on soft 17 gives the dealer more opportunities to improve their hand and potentially beat the players at the table.
It’s important for players to be aware of whether or not the casino they’re playing at allows dealers to hit on soft 17. This can affect the strategy they use when playing, as they may need to adjust their approach depending on the dealer’s hand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not a dealer can hit on 17 in blackjack depends on the specific rules of the casino. Most casinos require dealers to stand on all hands worth 17 points or more, but some allow dealers to hit on soft 17.
It’s important for players to be aware of these rules and adjust their strategy accordingly. With this knowledge in mind, players can make informed decisions and increase their chances of winning at the blackjack table.
