Should I Split Aces in Blackjack?

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games in the world. The game is simple, yet it requires a lot of skill and strategy to win consistently.

One of the most debated topics in blackjack is whether or not to split aces. In this article, we will discuss whether or not you should split aces in blackjack.

Firstly, let’s understand what splitting means. When you are dealt two cards of the same value, you have the option to split them into two separate hands. For example, if you are dealt two 7s, you can split them into two separate hands and play each hand separately.

Now, coming back to the question at hand – should you split aces in blackjack? The answer is yes, but with some exceptions.

When you are dealt a pair of aces, it’s always recommended that you split them. This is because an ace is one of the most powerful cards in blackjack and splitting them gives you a better chance of winning.

Splitting aces can also increase your chances of getting a natural blackjack. A natural blackjack is when your first two cards add up to 21 – an ace and a ten or face card. When you split your aces, you have two chances to get a ten-value card for each hand.

However, there are some exceptions when splitting aces may not be the best strategy. If the dealer has an ace showing as their up-card, it’s better not to split your aces. This is because the dealer has better odds of getting a natural blackjack with an ace as their up-card.

Another exception is when playing in a single-deck game where doubling down after splitting (DDAS) is not allowed. DDAS allows players to double their bet after splitting their cards. In this case, it’s better not to split your aces as it reduces your chances of winning.

It’s important to note that splitting pairs of aces is not the only splitting strategy in blackjack. You can also split other pairs, such as pairs of eights or nines. However, the decision to split ultimately depends on the dealer’s up-card and your own hand.

In conclusion, splitting aces in blackjack is generally a good strategy as it increases your chances of winning and getting a natural blackjack. However, there are some exceptions where splitting aces may not be the best strategy. It’s important to understand these exceptions and make an informed decision before splitting your cards.