Should I Split 8s in Blackjack?

Blackjack is a popular casino game that has been around for centuries. One of the most debated topics in this game is whether or not to split 8s.

In this tutorial, we will discuss the pros and cons of splitting 8s in blackjack. We will also provide you with some tips on how to make the best decision when playing this hand.

The Basics of Splitting 8s

When you split a hand in blackjack, it means that you divide your cards into two separate hands. In other words, if you have two 8s, you can split them into two hands and play each hand separately. This gives you a better chance of winning because you can draw more cards to improve your hands.

When you split 8s, each hand receives one additional card before play continues. If one or both of your new hands receive another 8, you can split again and create up to four separate hands.

The Pros of Splitting 8s

Splitting 8s in blackjack has several advantages. The first advantage is that it increases your chances of winning.

When you have two 8s, your total hand value is only 16. This is a weak hand in blackjack, and it’s unlikely that you’ll win with it unless the dealer busts.

By splitting your 8s into two separate hands, you increase your chances of getting a better hand value by drawing more cards. For example, if one of your new hands receives an Ace (which counts as either one or eleven), then your total hand value would be either nine or nineteen – both strong values in blackjack.

Another advantage of splitting 8s is that it allows you to take control of the game. When you have a strong hand like two Aces or two face cards (Kings, Queens, Jacks), splitting them gives you more opportunities to win big.

The Cons of Splitting 8s

Splitting 8s in blackjack also has its disadvantages. The first disadvantage is that it can be risky. If you split your 8s and end up with two weak hands, you’re more likely to lose both hands instead of winning one.

Another disadvantage of splitting 8s is that it can be costly. When you split your hand, you need to place an additional bet equal to your original bet on the new hand. This means that if you split your 8s, you’ll have to wager twice as much money as you would have if you had played the hand normally.

When Should You Split 8s?

The decision to split 8s in blackjack ultimately depends on the dealer’s upcard and the number of decks being used. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• If the dealer’s upcard is a two through seven, split your 8s.
• If the dealer’s upcard is an eight or higher, do not split your 8s.
• If the game is using one deck, always split your 8s.
• If the game is using six or more decks, do not split your 8s unless the dealer’s upcard is a two or three.

Conclusion

In conclusion, splitting 8s in blackjack can be a smart move if done correctly. It increases your chances of winning and allows you to take control of the game. However, it can also be risky and costly if done without careful consideration.

When deciding whether or not to split your 8s in blackjack, always consider the dealer’s upcard and the number of decks being used. Follow these guidelines and make informed decisions based on the situation at hand. With practice and experience, you’ll soon learn when splitting 8s is the right move to make.