When playing blackjack, one of the most debated moves is whether to split two tens or not. It’s a common situation that many players face, and it can be tempting to split those tens and try to increase your chances of winning.
However, is it really a good idea? Let’s take a closer look at the arguments for and against splitting two tens in blackjack.
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Firstly, let’s consider the basic strategy for blackjack. According to this strategy, you should never split a pair of tens.
The reason for this is quite simple: when you have a pair of tens, you already have a strong hand with a total value of 20. This is very close to the maximum value of 21, which is what you’re aiming for in blackjack. Splitting your tens would mean breaking up that strong hand and potentially ending up with two weaker hands.
On the other hand, some players argue that splitting two tens can be worth it in certain situations. For example, if the dealer has a weak upcard (such as a 6), splitting your tens could give you two strong hands that are likely to beat the dealer’s hand.
Additionally, if you’re playing with multiple decks and have been keeping track of the cards that have already been played, you may know that there are more low-value cards left in the deck than high-value cards. In this case, splitting your tens could give you two opportunities to get high-value cards and improve your overall hand.
However, these arguments for splitting two tens are generally outweighed by the risks involved. As mentioned earlier, splitting your tens means giving up a strong hand with potential winnings of 1:1 odds (if neither player busts).
Splitting also means doubling your bet size – so if you initially bet $10 on your hand and then split your tens, you’ll now be betting $20 on each new hand. If both hands lose, you’ve lost $40 instead of just $10.
Another factor to consider is that splitting two tens is not allowed in all blackjack variations. Some casinos have rules against splitting any pairs that aren’t aces or eights, so it’s important to check the specific rules of the game you’re playing before making any moves.
In conclusion, while splitting two tens may seem like a tempting move in some situations, it’s generally not recommended. The basic strategy for blackjack advises against it, and the risks involved – including potentially losing a strong hand and doubling your bet size – outweigh any potential benefits. As with any gambling decision, it’s important to weigh the risks and rewards carefully before making a move.
