Should You Hit on 17 Blackjack?

Blackjack is a popular casino game that requires a combination of luck and skill. One of the most crucial decisions that players have to make during the game is whether to hit or stand on a hard 17.

A hard 17 is a hand that has no Ace or has an Ace that counts as one. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of hitting on 17 in blackjack.

Pros of Hitting on 17

• Improve your hand: The primary reason to hit on 17 is to improve your hand. Although 17 is considered a strong hand, it is not always enough to beat the dealer’s hand.

  By hitting, you have a chance to increase your total and get closer to 21.

• Maximize winnings: Hitting on 17 can also help maximize your winnings. If you have a low bet, hitting can help you win more money if you end up with a better hand than the dealer.
• Follow basic strategy: According to basic strategy, players should hit on hard 17 when the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, King, Queen, Jack, ten, or nine. By following this strategy, you can reduce the house edge and increase your chances of winning.

Cons of Hitting on 17

• Bust potential: The biggest risk of hitting on 17 is busting. If you hit and get a card that puts your total over 21, you lose automatically regardless of what the dealer has.
• Dealer advantage: When playing blackjack, the dealer has certain advantages over the player.

  The dealer always acts last and has specific rules they must follow based on their hand total. If you hit on 17 and the dealer has a strong upcard, you may be giving them an edge.

• Table rules: Some blackjack tables have rules that prohibit hitting on 17. If you are playing at one of these tables, you must stand on 17, which can limit your options.

Conclusion

So, should you hit on 17 in blackjack The answer depends on various factors such as the dealer’s upcard, your current hand total, and the table rules.

In general, if the dealer has a weak upcard and you have a low bet, hitting on 17 can be a viable option to improve your hand and maximize winnings. However, if the dealer has a strong upcard or you have a high bet, it may be best to stand on 17 and hope that the dealer busts.

Ultimately, the decision to hit or stand on 17 is part of the strategy that makes blackjack an exciting game to play. By understanding the pros and cons of each option and following basic strategy guidelines, players can increase their chances of winning and enjoy all that this classic casino game has to offer.