Should You Split Sixes in Blackjack?

When it comes to playing blackjack, one of the most debated moves is whether or not to split sixes. While some players swear by this strategy, others are skeptical and prefer to stick with more traditional approaches.

So, should you split sixes in blackjack Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons.

The Basic Rules of Splitting

Before we dive into the specifics of splitting sixes, let’s review the basic rules of splitting in blackjack. When you’re dealt a pair of cards with the same value (e.g.

two sixes), you have the option to split them into two separate hands. Each hand is then played independently, with its own bet amount.

Splitting can be a powerful strategy when used correctly. It gives you the opportunity to double your chances of winning by creating two potential winning hands out of one bad hand.

The Pros and Cons of Splitting Sixes

So, why do some players recommend splitting sixes The primary reason is that it gives you a chance to improve your overall hand value.

When you split sixes, you’re essentially trading one weak hand (a total of 12) for two potentially stronger hands (two totals of 6). This can be particularly advantageous if the dealer is showing a weak card like a 4 or 5.

On the other hand, there are some downsides to splitting sixes as well. One major concern is that it can lead to busting more often. If you’re dealt another low-value card on one or both split hands, you could end up with totals that exceed 21 and lose both bets.

Another potential drawback is that splitting sixes may not always be worth it from a strategic standpoint. For example, if the dealer is showing a high-value card like a 10, splitting sixes may not be the best move since it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to beat the dealer with two hands totaling 6.

When to Split Sixes

So, should you split sixes in blackjack The answer is that it depends on the situation. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

• If the dealer is showing a weak card like a 4 or 5, splitting sixes can be a good move since you have a good chance of improving your hand value.
• If the dealer is showing a high-value card like a 10 or Ace, splitting sixes may not be worth it since your chances of winning with two hands totaling 6 are slim.
• If you’re playing in a game where doubling down after splitting (DDS) is allowed, splitting sixes can be even more advantageous since you can potentially double your winnings if you hit strong cards on both split hands.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, whether or not to split sixes in blackjack comes down to your personal preferences and playing style. While there are certainly benefits to this strategy, there are also some potential downsides to keep in mind. As with any move in blackjack, it’s important to consider the odds and make an informed decision based on the specific circumstances of each hand.