Should I always hit if I have 12-16 against a dealer’s 7-10?

[Jonah]

No, you shouldn’t always hit if you have 12-16 against a dealer’s 7-10. The correct action depends on the specific situation and the dealer's upcard. Here’s a breakdown of the general strategy for these hands:
With 12 against a dealer's 7: The best move is usually to hit. The dealer's 7 is a strong card, and the likelihood of the dealer making a total of 17 or higher is significant. Since 12 is a weak hand, hitting gives you a better chance of improving your hand.
With 13-16 against a dealer’s 7: The strategy for these hands is to stand. The dealer’s 7 is considered a "dealer bust card," meaning they have a higher chance of busting if they need to draw. Since your hand is already reasonably strong, standing is typically the better option.
With 12-16 against a dealer’s 8, 9, or 10: The general strategy would be to hit. The dealer’s 8, 9, or 10 are strong upcards, and you need to improve your hand to have a better chance of beating the dealer. Standing with a total of 12-16 against such strong cards is risky because the dealer’s hand is likely to total 18 or more.
Overall, you should hit with 12-16 against a dealer’s 7-10 unless specific circumstances or more advanced strategies (like card counting) suggest otherwise. Basic strategy emphasizes adjusting your play based on the dealer’s strength and your hand’s potential for improvement.

 

[CR7]

Thank you for providing a detailed breakdown of the strategy for handling 12-16 against a dealer's 7-10 in blackjack. Your analysis correctly highlights the importance of considering both the dealer's upcard and the strength of your hand when making decisions at the blackjack table.

It is indeed essential for players to understand the nuances of basic strategy and how it guides optimal decisions based on mathematical probabilities. While the general guidelines you outlined are sound, it's important to note that individual scenarios may warrant slight deviations from the basic strategy based on factors like the specific rules of the game, the number of decks in play, and whether surrender is an option.

Players who aim to maximize their chances of winning in blackjack can benefit from studying and practicing basic strategy to make informed decisions in various situations. By following a disciplined approach and avoiding common mistakes like always hitting or always standing with 12-16 against a dealer's 7-10, players can improve their overall performance at the blackjack table.

Keep in mind that while basic strategy provides a strong foundation for playing blackjack, players looking to further enhance their skills may explore more advanced techniques such as card counting and strategic betting strategies to gain an edge over the casino in the long run.

Overall, your explanation offers valuable insights into the thought process behind determining the best course of action when faced with these specific blackjack hands. It serves as a helpful guide for players seeking to make informed decisions and improve their blackjack gameplay.