Do You Hit on 12 Blackjack?

One of the most common questions that blackjack players ask is whether or not they should hit on a 12. This question is particularly pertinent when you have been dealt a 10 or face card, as this puts you in a tricky position where you have to decide whether to stand and risk losing to the dealer’s hand or hit and potentially go over 21.

The answer to this question is not straightforward, as it depends on several factors such as the dealer’s upcard, the number of decks in play, and the specific rules of the game. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you make an informed decision.

 Exclusive BlackJack Casino Offers: 

Basic Strategy

The basic strategy for hitting on a 12 varies depending on whether the dealer has a weak or strong upcard. If the dealer has anything between 2 and 6, it is usually recommended to stand rather than hit. This is because there is a high likelihood that the dealer will go bust if they have to draw another card.

PRO TIP:When playing blackjack, it is almost always advised to stand on a hand of 12. This is because the dealer has a higher chance of busting when they have to draw more cards to reach 17. Even if the dealer has a strong up-card (like an Ace), it is still more likely that they will bust than make 17.

On the other hand, if the dealer has an upcard between 7 and Ace, it is usually recommended to hit rather than stand. This may seem counterintuitive at first since it increases your risk of going bust. However, it is based on statistical analysis that shows hitting on a 12 against a strong upcard gives you a better chance of winning in the long run.

Variations in Rules

It’s important to note that these guidelines are based on standard rules where blackjack pays out at 3:2 and dealers must stand on all hands of 17. However, some variations in rules can affect your decision-making process when hitting on a 12.

  • If blackjack pays out at less than 3:2, it is generally recommended to hit on a 12 against a dealer’s 2 or 3 upcard. This is because the reduced payout decreases your overall advantage, and hitting on a 12 against a weak upcard can give you a better chance of winning.
  • If dealers are required to hit on soft 17, it is usually recommended to hit on a 12 against any dealer upcard. This is because the dealer has a higher chance of improving their hand and beating you in this situation.
  • Lastly, if you’re playing in a game with only one or two decks of cards, it’s generally recommended to stand on a 12 against any dealer upcard. This is because the fewer decks in play increase your chances of drawing a high-value card that would put you over 21.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether or not you should hit on a 12 in blackjack depends on several factors such as the dealer’s upcard, the number of decks in play, and specific rules of the game. However, following basic strategy guidelines can help improve your odds of winning and minimize your losses in the long run.