What Is a Blackjack Hand Called?

A blackjack hand is called a “natural” when it contains two cards that total 21 – an Ace and a 10-value card. This is the strongest hand in blackjack and it automatically wins, unless the dealer also has a natural, in which case it’s a push (a tie).

A blackjack hand that doesn’t contain a natural is called a “hard hand” because there is only one way to total 21 with those cards – by taking a hit. For example, an Ace and an 8 would be a hard 15.

If you take a hit and get a 5, you now have a hard 20.

Most of the time, you will be dealt a combination of hard and soft hands. A soft hand is any hand that contains an Ace that can be counted as either 1 or 11 without going over 21.

For example, an Ace and a 3 would be a soft 14. If you take a hit and get another Ace, you now have a soft 25.

Knowing whether your hand is hard or soft can be very important when making decisions about whether to hit or stand. Generally speaking, it’s better to stand on hard hands because it’s harder to go bust (go over 21).

It’s also generally better to hit on soft hands because you have more ways to make 21 and you’re less likely to go bust.

When you’re dealt a blackjack hand, the dealer will always ask if you want insurance. Insurance is basically a side bet that pays 2-to-1 if the dealer has a natural.

It’s not a good bet for the player because the odds of the dealer having a natural are only about 1 in 3 (assuming eight decks are in use).