Do You Ever Split 6s in Blackjack?

Blackjack, also known as 21, is one of the most popular casino games in the world. It is a game where players can use strategy and skill to improve their chances of winning.

The objective of the game is to get a hand that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand without going over. One of the most common questions that blackjack players ask is whether they should split their 6s.

Splitting in blackjack means dividing a pair of cards into two separate hands, each with its own bet. This is only possible when a player has two cards of equal rank. For example, if you are dealt two 6s, you can split them into two separate hands and play each hand separately.

When it comes to splitting 6s in blackjack, there are different schools of thought. Some players believe that splitting 6s is always a good move, while others advise against it. The reason for this difference in opinion lies in the fact that splitting depends on several factors such as the dealer’s upcard and the number of decks being used.

Let’s take a closer look at some scenarios where splitting 6s might be a good idea:

– If the dealer’s upcard is between 2 and 6: In this scenario, splitting your pair of 6s can be a good move as the dealer has a weak upcard. By splitting your hand, you give yourself two chances to make a strong hand and beat the dealer. – If you are playing with fewer decks: When playing with fewer decks, your chances of getting another card with a value of six decrease.

Therefore, splitting your sixes gives you another chance at getting a strong hand. – If you are counting cards: Card counting is an advanced blackjack strategy where players keep track of which cards have been played and adjust their bets accordingly. If you are counting cards and know that there are more high-value cards left in the deck, splitting your 6s can be a good move as it gives you two chances to get a high-value card and make a strong hand.

However, there are scenarios where splitting 6s is not recommended:

– If the dealer’s upcard is a seven or higher: In this scenario, the dealer has a strong hand and splitting your 6s might not be a good idea. It is best to hit instead and try to improve your hand.
– If you have already split once: Most casinos allow players to split their hands only once, which means that if you have already split your pair of 6s and received another 6, you cannot split again.

In conclusion, whether you should split your 6s in blackjack depends on several factors such as the dealer’s upcard and the number of decks being used. Splitting can be a good move in some scenarios, but it is not always recommended. As with any blackjack strategy, it is important to assess the situation carefully before making a decision.