Blackjack is a popular casino game, and if you want to play it like a pro, you need to understand the terminology. One of the most commonly used terms in blackjack is “hard hand.” But what is a hard hand in blackjack, and why is it important?
A hard hand in blackjack is a hand that doesn’t contain an ace or contains an ace that can only be counted as 1. For example, if you have a hand of 8-5-2, it is considered a hard 15 because there are no aces present. However, if you have a hand of A-4, it is also considered a hard hand because the ace can only be counted as 1.
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Why is the distinction between hard and soft hands important in blackjack? Well, it has to do with the way that the game’s rules work.
When you have a soft hand (a hand containing an ace that can be counted as either 1 or 11), you have more flexibility when making decisions about hitting or standing. This is because you can change the value of your ace depending on what card you draw next.
On the other hand, when you have a hard hand in blackjack, your decisions are more limited. This is because if you draw cards that would cause your total to exceed 21 (known as busting), your only option will be to stand and hope that the dealer busts as well.
So how should you play a hard hand in blackjack? The answer depends on several factors, including what cards the dealer has showing and how many decks are being used in the game.
Here are some general tips for playing hard hands in blackjack:
1. Always hit with a hard total of 8 or less. 2.
If your total is between 12 and 16, hit unless the dealer’s up-card is 2 through 6. 3. If your total is between 17 and 21, stand.
Of course, these are just general guidelines, and there may be situations where it makes sense to deviate from them. For example, if the dealer has a 7 or higher showing, you may want to hit with a hard total of 12 or 13 in order to try and improve your hand.
In conclusion, understanding what a hard hand is in blackjack is an important part of learning how to play the game effectively. By following the guidelines outlined above and paying attention to the dealer’s up-card, you can increase your chances of winning at the blackjack table.
