Does the Dealer Hit in Blackjack?

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games around the world. It is a game of strategy and luck where players aim to beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21 points. One of the most common questions that new players ask is whether or not the dealer hits in blackjack.

To answer this question, we need to understand the rules of blackjack. In most variations of the game, such as classic blackjack, European blackjack, and Vegas Strip blackjack, the dealer must hit until they reach a total of 17 or higher. This means that if their hand value is less than 17, they must continue drawing cards until they hit 17 or higher.

 Exclusive BlackJack Casino Offers: 

However, in some variations of blackjack, such as Atlantic City blackjack and Double Exposure blackjack, dealers are required to stand on a soft 17. A soft hand is any hand that contains an ace that can be valued at either one or eleven points. In these versions of the game, the dealer stands on a soft 17 which means they will not draw any additional cards.

It’s important to note that different casinos may have different rules when it comes to dealer hitting in blackjack. It’s always a good idea to check with your casino or online platform to make sure you understand their specific rules before playing.

PRO TIP:In Blackjack, the dealer follows a predetermined set of rules that determine when they will hit. Generally, dealers must hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 or more. If the dealer’s up card is an Ace, they will offer insurance to the players before determining whether to hit or stand.

Understanding whether or not the dealer hits in blackjack is crucial for players who want to develop effective strategies for winning at this game. If you know that the dealer must hit until they reach 17 points or more, you can make more informed decisions about when to hit yourself and when to stand.

For example, if you have a hand value of 14 and the dealer has a face-up card showing an eight, nine or ten-value card which are high cards; it’s probably best to hit because there’s a good chance that their next card could take them over 21 points (bust) which would result in an automatic win for you even if your hand value is less than 21.

On the other hand, if the dealer’s face-up card is a low card like a two or three and you have a hand value of 12 or more, it may be better to stand since there’s a higher chance that the dealer might go bust if they draw another card.

In conclusion, whether or not the dealer hits in blackjack depends on the specific rules of the game being played. However, in most versions of blackjack, dealers are required to hit until they reach 17 points or more. Knowing this can help players make more informed decisions about when to hit and when to stand, ultimately increasing their chances of winning at this popular casino game.