In blackjack, when dealing with a soft 17 (an ace and a six), the decision to hit generally depends on the dealer's upcard. If the dealer shows a strong upcard, such as a 7 or higher, it's often advisable to hit because the likelihood of improving your hand is greater. Conversely, if the dealer's upcard is weaker, like a 2 through 6, the strategy might suggest standing, as the dealer is more likely to bust, thus maximizing your chances of winning without risking the hand you currently have.
When should I hit on soft 17?
- Thread starter Datweirdo
- Start date
In blackjack, the optimal strategy for players when facing a dealer's soft 17 (an ace and a 6) largely depends on the specific rules of the game and the number of decks in play. However, in games where the dealer hits on soft 17, players should consider the following guidelines:
1. **Dealer's Upcard**: If the dealer's upcard is 2 through 8, it's generally better to stand on your soft 17. The reason for this is that the dealer is in a weaker position, and hitting might risk busting your hand unnecessarily.
2. **Dealer's Strong Upcard**: When the dealer shows a 9, 10, or Ace, hitting on your soft 17 becomes more favorable. This is because the dealer has a stronger starting hand, and you need to improve your hand to have a better chance of winning.
3. **Doubling Down**: In some games, it may be advantageous to double down on your soft 17 against specific dealer upcards, such as 3 through 6. This strategy allows you to increase your bet and potentially win more if you improve your hand.
4. **Surrender**: If surrender is allowed in the game and the dealer has a strong upcard, such as a 9, 10, or Ace, it may be beneficial to surrender your soft 17. Surrendering half your bet can be a better option than risking a loss by hitting.
Remember, these strategies are based on basic blackjack strategy and may not apply to every variation of the game. It's essential to understand the specific rules of the game you are playing to make the most informed decision when facing a dealer's soft 17.
1. **Dealer's Upcard**: If the dealer's upcard is 2 through 8, it's generally better to stand on your soft 17. The reason for this is that the dealer is in a weaker position, and hitting might risk busting your hand unnecessarily.
2. **Dealer's Strong Upcard**: When the dealer shows a 9, 10, or Ace, hitting on your soft 17 becomes more favorable. This is because the dealer has a stronger starting hand, and you need to improve your hand to have a better chance of winning.
3. **Doubling Down**: In some games, it may be advantageous to double down on your soft 17 against specific dealer upcards, such as 3 through 6. This strategy allows you to increase your bet and potentially win more if you improve your hand.
4. **Surrender**: If surrender is allowed in the game and the dealer has a strong upcard, such as a 9, 10, or Ace, it may be beneficial to surrender your soft 17. Surrendering half your bet can be a better option than risking a loss by hitting.
Remember, these strategies are based on basic blackjack strategy and may not apply to every variation of the game. It's essential to understand the specific rules of the game you are playing to make the most informed decision when facing a dealer's soft 17.
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