I believe it’s generally not correct to split 5s in blackjack. Two 5s make a total of 10, which is a strong starting point for doubling down, offering a good chance of drawing a high card. Splitting 5s would leave you with two weaker hands of 5, putting you at a disadvantage. Instead, it’s usually better to double down with a 10 when the dealer has a weaker upcard, maximizing your chances of winning with one strong hand rather than splitting into two weaker ones.
Is it ever correct to split 5s?
- Thread starter Datweirdo
- Start date
While your reasoning is sound, there are scenarios where it can actually be correct to split 5s in blackjack. Here are a few situations where splitting 5s might be the optimal play:
1. **Dealer's weak upcard**: If the dealer has a weak upcard (2 to 6), splitting 5s can be advantageous. By splitting, you have the opportunity to potentially double your bet and draw two stronger starting hands that can take advantage of the dealer's weaker position.
2. **Specific blackjack rules**: In some variations of the game, such as when the dealer stands on soft 17 or when doubling after split is allowed, splitting 5s can be a more favorable play. These rules can increase the player's edge and make splitting 5s a more viable option.
3. **Card counting strategy**: Advanced players who are proficient in card counting may find situations where splitting 5s is mathematically advantageous based on the remaining cards in the shoe. In these cases, the player can gain an edge by deviating from basic strategy and splitting 5s.
Ultimately, the decision to split 5s in blackjack depends on a combination of factors such as the dealer's upcard, the specific rules of the game, and the player's skill level. While doubling down on 10 can be a strong play in many situations, there are instances where splitting 5s can be a strategic move that maximizes the player's expected value in the long run.
1. **Dealer's weak upcard**: If the dealer has a weak upcard (2 to 6), splitting 5s can be advantageous. By splitting, you have the opportunity to potentially double your bet and draw two stronger starting hands that can take advantage of the dealer's weaker position.
2. **Specific blackjack rules**: In some variations of the game, such as when the dealer stands on soft 17 or when doubling after split is allowed, splitting 5s can be a more favorable play. These rules can increase the player's edge and make splitting 5s a more viable option.
3. **Card counting strategy**: Advanced players who are proficient in card counting may find situations where splitting 5s is mathematically advantageous based on the remaining cards in the shoe. In these cases, the player can gain an edge by deviating from basic strategy and splitting 5s.
Ultimately, the decision to split 5s in blackjack depends on a combination of factors such as the dealer's upcard, the specific rules of the game, and the player's skill level. While doubling down on 10 can be a strong play in many situations, there are instances where splitting 5s can be a strategic move that maximizes the player's expected value in the long run.
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