Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games and offers players a number of different rules and variations. Often, these changes make the game more difficult to play but can also improve your chances of winning big. For example, counting cards is a popular way to increase your chances of winning at blackjack but casinos dislike the practice and implement rules to stop you from doing it. One such trick is pitch dealing in double deck blackjack where the dealer holds the two packs in their hand and then pitches them to each player without revealing their faces. This makes it much harder to count the cards in your opponent’s hands.
This reduced card count is one of the reasons why double deck blackjack has a lower house edge than other variants of the game. However, there are other subtle rule differences that can help you get an edge over the dealer as well. For example, the odds on insurance bets tend to be lower in 2-deck blackjack than they are in 6-deck blackjack and there are more 10-value cards in the deck so it’s easier to double down.
The best way to understand the rules of double deck blackjack is by studying a strategy chart which will show you what to do in each situation. These charts are usually arranged in a grid and will display the different options for your hand and the dealer’s. They will include boxes for hitting, standing, doubling, splitting, and surrendering. It is recommended that you study these charts and if possible memorise them so that you know what to do in each situation.
In addition to knowing basic strategy, it is important to consider the dealer’s upcard. This will help you decide whether to hit or stand and can significantly impact your chances of getting 21 or beating the dealer’s hand. For example, when the dealer has a 7, it’s generally better to hit rather than stand because there is a higher chance of making a good hand with the next card.
If you’re new to double deck blackjack, try playing free online games or low stakes tables at a live casino to familiarise yourself with the rules and nuances of the game before diving in. The more you play, the more comfortable you’ll be and you can then progress to the high-stakes games where the real money is. Just remember to stick with your strategy and avoid taking unnecessary risks like insurance bets! By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a seasoned double-deck blackjack pro.