What Are Winning Hands in Blackjack?

Blackjack is a popular casino game that has been enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. It’s a game of strategy where players try to beat the dealer by getting a hand total of 21 or as close to it as possible.

However, not all hands are created equal when it comes to winning in Blackjack. In this article, we’ll explore what the winning hands in Blackjack are and how you can increase your chances of winning.

First and foremost, the best hand you can get in Blackjack is a natural blackjack. A natural blackjack occurs when you’re dealt an ace and any card with a value of 10 (10, Jack, Queen, or King).

This hand is unbeatable and pays out at 3:2 odds. If the dealer also has a natural blackjack, then the hand is pushed.

The next best hand is one that totals 21 but isn’t a natural blackjack. For example, if you’re dealt an ace and a nine, this would be considered a “soft” 20 (since you can choose whether the ace counts as one or eleven).

If you then draw another ace, your total would be 21 – also known as “blackjack.” This hand pays out at 1:1 odds.

Another winning hand in Blackjack is any total that beats the dealer’s hand without going over 21. For example, if the dealer has a total of 18 and you have a total of 19, then you win. Similarly, if the dealer busts (goes over 21), then all remaining players win regardless of their own totals.

It’s worth noting that there are certain hands that are considered “busts” – meaning they automatically lose regardless of what the dealer has. Any total over 21 is considered a bust. Additionally, some casinos have rules about hitting on soft totals (i.e., those including an ace) that differ from other casinos – so it’s important to know the specific rules of the game you’re playing.

To increase your chances of winning, there are a few strategies you can employ. First, it’s important to know when to hit and when to stand.

Generally speaking, if your total is 16 or less, you should always hit. If your total is 17 or higher (or if you have a soft 18), then you should stand.

Another strategy is to pay attention to the dealer’s up card (the card that’s face-up). Depending on what that card is, you may want to adjust your own strategy.

For example, if the dealer has a six showing, they’re in a weaker position since they must continue drawing until their total is at least 17. In this case, players may want to stand on lower totals since there’s a higher likelihood of the dealer busting.

In conclusion, knowing what constitutes a winning hand in Blackjack is key to playing and winning at this popular casino game. Whether it’s getting a natural blackjack or beating the dealer with a total under 21, there are several different ways to win – and several different strategies you can use to increase your chances of doing so. By mastering these strategies and understanding the specific rules of the game you’re playing, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Blackjack pro in no time!