What if Dealer Has Blackjack and Player Has 21?

If you are a blackjack player, you know that the game can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. One of the most challenging situations for any player is when the dealer has a blackjack and they have a 21.

So, what do you do in such a situation? Let’s take a closer look.

Firstly, it is important to understand what exactly constitutes a blackjack and a 21 in blackjack. A blackjack is when the dealer gets an Ace and any other card with a value of 10 (King, Queen, Jack or 10). A 21, on the other hand, is when the player gets any combination of cards that add up to 21.

Now, let’s say that you have been dealt two cards that add up to 21 (let’s assume it’s an Ace and a face card). You feel confident about your hand until the dealer reveals their cards and you realize they have a blackjack.

The first thing to remember in this situation is not to panic. While it may seem like all hope is lost, there are still ways to salvage your hand. The key is knowing your options and making the best decision based on the cards you have.

Option one: Surrender

If surrendering is allowed at your table, this could be an option worth considering. Surrendering means forfeiting half of your bet and giving up your hand without playing it out. This option may seem like giving up too soon but sometimes it can be better than losing all your money.

Option two: Stand

If surrendering isn’t an option or if you don’t want to use it, standing could be another way out. By standing, you are choosing not to draw any more cards from the deck.

This means that if the dealer busts (goes over 21), you win automatically. However, if they don’t bust and their hand beats yours, you lose.

Option three: Hit

If you choose to hit, you are asking the dealer for another card to add to your hand. This option is riskier than standing because you could end up going over 21 and busting. However, if you get a low card, it could help improve your hand and increase your chances of winning.

Option four: Double down

If the casino allows doubling down in this situation, it means that you can double your bet and receive only one more card. This option is risky but can be very rewarding if you get a good card. However, if you get a bad card, it could cause you to lose double the amount of money.

Option five: Split

If you are playing with two hands, splitting could be an option. This means that you split your hand into two separate hands and play them individually. It gives you a chance to improve your hand on both sides but also increases your bet.

In conclusion, when the dealer has a blackjack and you have a 21 in blackjack, it’s important not to panic and consider all your options before making a decision. Surrendering or standing might be the safest options but hitting or doubling down could potentially give better rewards.

Splitting might also be worth considering if playing with two hands. Remember to always have a strategy in mind before playing any game of blackjack for maximum chances of winning!