Should You Split 8’s in Blackjack?

When playing blackjack, the decision of whether or not to split a pair of 8’s can be a difficult one. Some players believe that splitting 8’s is always the correct play, while others think it should only be done in certain situations. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of splitting 8’s in blackjack and help you make an informed decision at the table.

First of all, let’s clarify what splitting 8’s means in blackjack. When you are dealt a pair of 8’s, you have the option to split them into two separate hands and receive an additional card for each hand. This effectively doubles your bet and gives you two chances to beat the dealer.

One argument for splitting 8’s is that it gives you a better chance to win. When you split 8’s, you have two hands with a starting value of 8, which is not a strong hand in blackjack. However, if you hit on each hand and receive cards that improve your total, such as a 9 or higher, you now have two strong hands that can beat the dealer.

Another reason to split 8’s is when the dealer has a weak upcard. When the dealer shows a card between 2 and 7, they are considered weak because there is a higher likelihood that they will bust (go over 21). By splitting your pair of 8’s in this situation, you give yourself two chances to beat the dealer if they do end up busting.

On the other hand, there are some drawbacks to splitting 8’s that should be considered as well. One major disadvantage is that if you receive another low-value card on one or both of your split hands (such as a 2 or 3), then your chances of winning are greatly reduced. This is because it will be difficult to improve your total without going over 21.

Another downside to splitting 8’s is that it can be costly if you are not careful. When you split 8’s, you are effectively doubling your bet, which means that if both of your hands lose to the dealer, you will lose double the amount of your original bet. This can quickly eat away at your bankroll if you are on a losing streak.

So, should you split 8’s in blackjack? The answer is..it depends.

If the dealer has a weak upcard and you feel confident in your ability to improve your hand with additional hits, then splitting 8’s can be a smart move. However, if the dealer has a strong upcard or you are worried about receiving low-value cards on both of your split hands, then it may be better to simply hit or stand with your pair of 8’s.

In conclusion, splitting 8’s in blackjack can be a strategic play that gives you two chances to beat the dealer. However, it should only be done in certain situations where the odds are in your favor. By considering the pros and cons of splitting 8’s and using sound blackjack strategy, you can make informed decisions at the table and increase your chances of winning.