Split
Blackjack Strategy Free Blackjack game 6 in 1 Blackjack Blackjack insurance Side bets 21+3 Rules Split Card counting
In this article we will look at one of the interesting components of playing blackjack. Split is a process that allows the player to participate with both hands in one round (draw). For this to happen, you must receive two cards of equal value after the first deal. Here's more about the split and when to apply it.
Cases in which split can be used
When the participant obtains two identical cards after the deal, the croupier offers to split them. For example, if you have received two jacks or two tens, you can continue your participation in the round with both hands. To do this, you must double the value of the initial bet, and then you will receive two new cards - one for each of the newly formed hands.
Each of the two participating hands is treated as independent, i.e. the bets on it are strictly individual. You can double your bet, ask for a new card ( not eligible for two Aces) or split one.
The split option is relatively rare, as the chance of a pair is estimated at 0.5%, while the probability of getting two cards with a value of "10" (jack, queen, king, ten) is 9.4%.
When is the right time to use split
It is common to split your hand if you have a pair of eights or aces. Although you are only entitled to one additional card in two aces, the probability of forming blackjack with one of the two hands is estimated at 51.6%.
If after the first hand you get two eights - divide them, as their total value (16) is just below the minimum threshold of the draw croupier. As you know, the dealer cannot draw a new card if the sum of his is 17+. In this case, splitting reduces the risk of exceeding 21 when drawing an additional card.
In case you get a pair of 9 + 9, split the cards, unless the dealer's face is 7, 10 or Ace. If the dealer has a 7, in all probability the sum of his two will be a maximum of 17, which is below yours (18). At 10 or Ace, it is claimed that it is risky to entangle and double the bet, as the croupier may receive a blackjack.
More cases in which it is correct to split the pairs:
• For 2 + 2 or 3 + 3 you must stumble if the dealer's visible card is 7 or less;
• At 4 + 4, split the cards only if the dealer's card is 5 or 6;
• For 6 + 6, use the Split option if the value of the face-up card is between 2 and 6.
When not to use split
There are situations in which it is better to stay in the current position or double the bet, but without splitting. This is the case with a pair of 10 + 10, as the chance to lose is less than 13%. In this case the croupier can only win if he draws blackjack or gets 21 points on a third card.
You should not split a pair of 5 + 5. With such a combination, it is best to double the bet, as you have a 53.8% chance to finish on the turn with an 18+ hand. If the dealer's card is 10 or Ace, ask for a new card, but without doubling.
Other cases, in which you should not use split:
• If you have 9 + 9 and the dealer's card is 7, 10 or A;
• If you have 7 + 7 and the dealer's card is 8 or larger;
• If you have 6 + 6 and the dealer's card is 7 or higher;
• If you have 4 + 4 and the dealer's card is 2, 3, 4 or 7+;
• If you have 2 + 2 or 3 + 3 and the dealer's card is 8, 9, 10 or A.
Final words
Split is an additional opportunity for players to improve their current situation. Use the option rationally, following the instructions given in the article. And remember that the split leads to a doubling of the value of the bet, which increases the risk of greater financial losses.
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