What Is a Stiff Hand in Blackjack?

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The game is simple to understand, yet difficult to master.

One of the key concepts that players need to grasp is the concept of a stiff hand. In this article, we’ll explain what a stiff hand is in blackjack and how you can use this knowledge to improve your game.

First things first, let’s define what a stiff hand is. In blackjack, a stiff hand is a hand that has a total value of 12 through 16.

This may sound like a wide range, but it’s important to remember that in blackjack, you’re only dealt two cards at the start of each round. Therefore, any hand with a total value between 12 and 16 will be made up of two cards that are worth between six and eight points each.

So why are these hands referred to as “stiff”? The reason is simple: they’re difficult to play. When you have a stiff hand in blackjack, you’re stuck in a tough spot because you don’t have a strong enough hand to stand pat (i.e., keep your current cards) but hitting (i., taking another card) could easily put you over 21 and bust your hand.

Now that we’ve established what a stiff hand is let’s dive into some strategies for playing them.

One common strategy for playing stiff hands is to always hit when the dealer has a strong upcard (i., an Ace, King, Queen, Jack or 10). This makes sense because when the dealer has one of these cards showing, they’re more likely to have a strong hand themselves. By hitting your stiff hand in this situation, you increase your chances of improving your own hand or at least getting closer to 21 without busting.

On the other hand if the dealer has weaker upcards such as from 2 through 6, it can be a good idea to stand with a stiff hand. This is because the dealer is more likely to bust when they have a weak upcard, so there’s less pressure on you to improve your own hand.

It’s important to note that these strategies are just guidelines and there are always exceptions based on the specific cards you have and the dealer’s upcard. It’s also important to keep in mind that playing a stiff hand in blackjack is always going to be a bit of a gamble. Even if you follow the optimal strategy, there’s still a chance that you’ll bust or end up with a weak hand.

In conclusion, understanding what a stiff hand is in blackjack is key to improving your game and making better decisions at the table. By knowing when to hit or stand with these hands, you can increase your chances of winning and minimize your losses. Remember though, blackjack is ultimately a game of luck, so always play responsibly and within your means.