How Do You Play a Pair in Blackjack?

Blackjack is a popular casino game that has been played for centuries. It is also known as 21, and the objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand value that is closest to 21 without going over.

One of the most common scenarios in blackjack is when you are dealt a pair. In this article, we will discuss how to play a pair in blackjack.

 Exclusive BlackJack Casino Offers: 

Firstly, it is important to know what a pair is in blackjack. A pair occurs when you are dealt two cards of the same rank, such as two 7s or two Kings.

The value of the pair will depend on the individual cards. For example, if you have a pair of 3s, your hand value will be 6.

When you are dealt a pair in blackjack, you have several options depending on the casino rules and your personal preference. Here are some ways to play your pair:

1) Splitting
Splitting is an option that allows you to divide your pair into two separate hands and play them individually. To split your pair, you must place an additional bet equal to your original wager. After splitting, each hand will receive one additional card and then you can proceed with playing each hand separately.

For example, if you are dealt a pair of 8s, it is recommended to split them as it gives you two chances to make a better hand. If you split your 8s and receive another 8 on one of your hands, you can even choose to split again!

2) Standing
Standing means that you do not want any more cards and are happy with your current hand value. This option should only be chosen if the dealer’s up card is weak (2-6) and there’s no need for taking risks.

For instance, if you have been dealt a pair of face cards (King or Queen), it would be wise to stand since there’s already a high probability that you have a strong hand.

PRO TIP:When playing Blackjack, a Pair is a hand with two cards of the same rank. To play the Pair, you can split your hand into two hands and place a second bet equal to your first bet. Then each of the split hands will be dealt one card each and played separately. If your split hand contains an Ace, then you have the option to hit or stand on that hand only.

3) Hitting
Hitting is when you choose to take another card in an attempt to improve your hand value. This option should only be chosen if the dealer’s up card is strong (7-Ace).

For example, if you are dealt a pair of 2s and the dealer’s up card is a 9, it would be wise to hit as there’s a high likelihood that your current hand value of 4 will not stand against the dealer’s potential total of 19.

4) Doubling Down
Doubling down allows you to double your original bet and receive one additional card. This option should only be chosen if the dealer’s up card is weak (2-6) and you have a strong hand.

For instance, if you are dealt a pair of 5s and the dealer’s up card is a 3, it would be wise to double down on your pair as there’s already a high probability that your current hand value of 10 will win against the dealer’s potential total of 13.

It is important to note that not all casinos allow doubling down on pairs. It is best to check with the casino rules before attempting this option.

In conclusion, playing pairs in blackjack can be tricky but following these guidelines can improve your chances of winning. Splitting pairs gives you two chances at making better hands while standing means not taking any more risks when having already good cards.

Hitting and doubling down are more aggressive options but can certainly pay off in certain cases. Remember to always analyze both your pair and the dealer’s up card before making any decisions!