occasion, you will find a dealer who does not expose the hole card in this circumstance. Generally you should leave that table.

The dealer plays by strict rules set by the casino. Generally, the dealer will draw additional cards until the dealer hand is above hard 16. This is referred to as “stand on soft-17” or S17. In some casinos, the dealer will hit a hand with 17 if it is a “soft” hand, for example, an ace and a six. This is referred to as “hit soft-17” or H17. The table will state the dealer rule in a large semi-circle beyond the insurance bar. H17 increases the house edge and is more common these days as the casinos become more greedy.

Note: The dealer has an advantage because the players play first. If the player busts, then the dealer does not need to risk a bust. On the other hand, players also enjoy an advantage because they get to see one of the dealer’s cards and are allowed to vary their play accordingly. They are also allowed to double, split, insure, sometimes surrender and are paid extra for a Blackjack. This brings near balance to the two opponents.

The Resolution

Once the dealer has completed her hand, she will resolve the bets and sweep the cards into the discard tray. You can then place a bet for the next round. Once she has resolved your bet, you do not actually need to wait for her to finish resolving all the other hands before placing your bet. Remember, speed is important.

Leaving the Table

It is common when you leave to “color up” your chips if you have many chips — that is, trade in smaller chips for larger ones. Simply place your chips between two betting spots. You may say “color” if the dealer does not see you, but she knows what you want. Some counters do not like to color up as it gives the pit a chance to count their chips. However, if they care, they probably already know. The main job of the pit is to watch the money flow. Many players “rat-hole” or surreptitiously pocket chips. But the pit keeps track of the chips in the tray, and if they are nowhere on the table, then they are in somebody’s pocket. I sometimes put chips in my pocket — but I do it obviously, so I do not look like I am trying to hide them. I look more like a gambler who is “protecting his winnings.”

 © 2009 Norman Wattenberger