An Expert’s Take on Hi Lo Card Counting
As a blackjack enthusiast who has been playing and studying the game for many years, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of card counting. When done correctly, it’s a powerful tool that can provide an edge over the house.
One system that stands out for its simplicity and effectiveness is the Hi Lo Card Counting system.
This system of counting cards in blackjack may appear daunting at first, but don’t worry – I’ll guide you through all the necessary steps and strategies to get you counting cards like a pro.
The Basics of Hi-Lo Card Counting
The first step you must learn before trying to understand the hi lo blackjack card counting system is basic strategy.
Learn this essential by studying our blackjack chart.
Basic blackjack strategy is the foundation upon which all hi lo strategy is based upon.
Once you’ve master basic strategy you can graduate to counting cards in blackjack gaming.
The Hi-Lo system is a balanced card counting strategy where every card in the deck is assigned a value.
The values are as follows:
| Card Value | Count Value |
|---|---|
| 2 – 6 | +1 |
| 7 – 9 | 0 |
| 10 – Ace | -1 |
The goal of using the hi lo counting system when counting cards in blackjack is to keep a running count based on the values of the cards as they’re dealt.
This count reflects the ratio of high to low cards remaining in the deck, providing valuable information for betting and playing decisions.
Video: Blackjack Hi-Lo Card Counting System Tutorial
Implementing the Hi Lo Counting System
To start with the Hi-Lo card counting system, begin every game with a count of zero.
Then, as each card is dealt, apply the value from the table above.
For example, if a 3, a 9, and a Queen are dealt, you’d count +1, 0, -1, respectively, resulting in a total count of zero.
The Importance of the Running Count
Understanding the running count is vital in the Hi Lo card counting system.
The higher the positive running count, the more high-value cards (10s and Aces) remain in the deck, favoring the player.
Conversely, a negative running count indicates more low-value cards remain, favoring the casino’s blackjack house edge.
| Running Count | Who It Favors |
|---|---|
| Positive Count | Player |
| Negative Count | House |
Converting Running Count to True Count
In multiple deck games, the running count isn’t enough – it needs to be converted into the ‘True Count.’
This is done by dividing the running count by the approximate number of remaining decks.
The True Count provides a more accurate representation of the deck’s composition.
Betting and Playing Strategies
The core of the Hi Lo system of counting cards is using the count to adjust betting and playing strategies.
If the True Count is positive, you should increase your bet, as the odds favor you.
If it’s negative, decrease your bet.
Similarly, the count can also influence playing decisions, such as whether to hit or stand.
| True Count | Betting and Playing Strategy |
|---|---|
| Positive Count | Increase Bet, Favorable Playing Decisions |
| Negative Count | Decrease Bet, Conservative Playing Decisions |
FAQs: Hi-Lo Card Counting in Blackjack
Blackjack Hi Lo Counting Conclusion
In summary, the Hi-Lo card counting system is an exciting method that can potentially give you an edge in blackjack.
It’s an excellent place to start if you’re new to counting cards in the game of blackjack.
Unlike other popular casino games, player’s who count cards in blackjack can actually gain an approximate ~.5% advantage over the house.
Blackjack is the only casino game where the player can gain the advantage over the casino.
That’s why it’s my main game.
With practice and patience, you’ll soon see your blackjack game improve.
Related: Baccarat vs Blackjack: Comparing Two Loved Casino Card Games
Remember, while the Hi-Lo system can improve your odds, it’s not a guarantee – after all, that’s why they call it gambling.
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