Counting Cards and Beating the House:

 

Posted by Black Ops Blackjack |

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Ever wonder if it’s actually possible to beat the casino at blackjack?  It is. But it’s not about luck, cheating, or magic. It’s about counting cards.

In this post, I’ll break down exactly how card counting works, how real pros do it, and even a modified way to count cards when you’re just trying to have fun with friends. Whether you're brand new or just curious, this will give you a solid starting point to understand how people actually beat the house.

 

How to Count Cards in Blackjack (Step-by-Step Guide)

Card counting sounds complicated, but it’s actually simple once you break it down.

Here’s a basic guide to how it works, especially using the popular Hi-Lo System.

 

1. Assign Values to Cards

Every card in the deck gets a value:

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• 2 to 6 = +1
   

• 7 to 9 = 0
   

• 10 to Ace = -1
   

When low cards are dealt, the deck gets “hot”, meaning more 10s and Aces are left, which is great for the player.

 

2. Keep a Running Count

As each card is dealt, keep a “running count” in your head. If a bunch of low cards come out, your count goes up. If you see a lot of face cards, your count goes down. 

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3. Calculate the True Count

The “true count” helps adjust for how many decks are in play. You do this by dividing the running count by how many decks are left. For example, if your running count is +6 and there are 3 decks left, your true count is +2.

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4. Change Your Bets Based on the Count

When the true count goes up, you bet more. When it goes down, you bet less or not at all. That’s the edge.

Most blackjack players lose over time because they just bet randomly. Card counters bet smart—only when the math is on their side.

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My Modified Card Counting Strategy ​

If you’re playing blackjack for fun but still want an edge, here’s a simple version of card counting that actually works, even with distractions.​

 

The Problem: Distractions

Maybe you’re playing with friends.  Maybe you’re at a loud table. Either way, it’s hard to keep a mental count, if there are distractions.

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The Solution: Use Chips as a Visual Counter

Instead of trying to remember your count, use casino chips to track it:

• Every time the count goes up +1, slide a chip to your right.
   

• Every time it goes down -1, slide one to your left.
   

This physical movement helps you stay on track without stressing your brain. It’s not perfect, but it works surprisingly well in casual games or noisy casinos.​

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is card counting in blackjack?

Card counting is a strategy that helps players track the ratio of high cards to low cards left in the deck. When more high cards remain, players raise their bets because the odds are in their favor.

Is card counting illegal?

Nope. Card counting is not illegal. But casinos don’t like it. If they catch you doing it, they might ask you to leave or even ban you from playing blackjack.

Can you really make money card counting?

Yes, but only if you’re disciplined, consistent, and willing to put in the work. Most people who try fail because they don’t stick to the system or let emotions take over.

What’s the best system for counting cards?

The Hi-Lo system is the most popular and easiest to learn. There are others (like KO and Omega II), but Hi-Lo is a great place to start for beginners.

 

Final Thoughts: Counting Cards Is Real—If You’re Ready

If you're just hoping to “get lucky,” blackjack probably isn’t the game for you. But if you’re into math, patterns, and strategy—and especially if you hate losing—card counting might be your secret weapon.

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What Blackjack Tables to Avoid (And Why It Matters)

Posted by Black Ops Blackjack |

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Walking into a casino and picking a random blackjack table can be a costly mistake. Not all tables are created equal, and if you don’t know what to look out for, you could be giving the house a much bigger edge than you need to. The good news? With a little scouting and know-how, you can avoid the worst blackjack tables and put yourself in a better position to win.

Whether you're new to blackjack or already counting cards like a pro, this guide breaks down what blackjack tables to avoid and why.

 

Why Choosing the Right Blackjack Table Matters

Before you even sit down, the rules, number of decks, and even the way cards are shuffled at a table can drastically change your odds. Some tables are practically unwinnable, while others give you a fair shot if you know how to play. Choosing the wrong table is one of the most common blackjack mistakes.

 

1. Avoid Tables That Use a Continuous Shuffling Machine (CSM)

One of the biggest red flags is a table with a Continuous Shuffling Machine, or CSM. These machines constantly shuffle every card that’s been dealt back into the deck. That means:

• You can’t count cards effectively
   

• You play more hands per hour, increasing your losses over time
   

• There's no natural pause in the game (which is nice for breaks)
   

Even though CSMs technically lower the house edge by a tiny bit, the increased game speed more than makes up for it—in the casino’s favor.

Actionable tip: If you see a CSM, walk away. Look for a hand-shuffled or auto-shuffled table instead.

 

2. Watch Out for 6:5 Blackjack Payouts

This one’s a trap. If you win with a natural blackjack and the table pays 6:5 instead of the traditional 3:2, you’re getting ripped off.

• A $10 blackjack hand should pay $15 at 3:2
   

• At 6:5, you only get $12
   

That’s a massive drop in your potential winnings and increases the house edge significantly.

Actionable tip: Always look at the table placard. If it says 6:5 for blackjack, skip it. Find one that pays 3:2.

 

3. Be Careful with High Minimum Bet Tables

It’s not a "bad rule" exactly, but playing at a table with a $50 minimum when you’re only bringing $200 is a recipe for disaster. You’ll burn through your bankroll fast and have no room for smart play or recovery.

 Actionable tip: Choose a table where you can afford at least 20–40 bets. That way, you can handle some swings without going broke in 15 minutes.

 

4. Avoid Tables With Too Many Decks (If You Can)

The more decks in play, the higher the house edge becomes. Single and double-deck games give players better odds—if the rules are decent.

• Single deck = lowest house edge (with good rules)
   

• 6 or 8 decks = higher house edge
   

 Actionable tip: Ask the dealer how many decks are in play, or watch the shoe and shuffling. If it’s 6 or more decks and bad rules, definitely avoid.

 

5. Skip Tables With Bad Rules

Not all blackjack games have the same rules. Some small differences can cost you big in the long run. Watch out for these player-unfriendly rules:

• Dealer hits on soft 17 (H17) – Worse for players
   

• No doubling after split (NDAS) – Restricts options
   

• No surrender option – Removes a great escape move
   

• No resplitting Aces – Limits chances to build strong hands
   

The more limits the casino puts on you, the worse your chances become.

Actionable tip: Look for tables with the dealer standing on soft 17 (S17), double after split allowed, surrender available, and 3:2 payouts. These are solid signs of a better game.

 

6. Heads-Up Games Aren’t Always Better

A lot of people think fewer players means more action, which is true—but it also means more exposure to the house edge. At a full table, you get fewer hands per hour, which means slower losses and more time to enjoy the game.

Actionable tip: If you're just playing basic strategy and not counting cards, full tables are actually better for your bankroll.

 

FAQ: 

What’s the worst blackjack rule to watch out for?

6:5 blackjack payouts are the worst. They give the casino a huge advantage. Always look for 3:2 tables.

Are continuous shuffling machines bad?

Yes. CSMs eliminate any chance of counting cards and speed up the game, which increases your losses over time.

Does the number of decks matter?

Yes. Fewer decks usually means better odds for players—especially in single or double-deck games. But remember, the other rules matter just as much.

Is it better to play alone or at a full table?

If you’re not counting cards, playing at a full table slows down the game, which is better for your bankroll in the long run.

Should I avoid tables with high minimum bets? 

If you have a small bankroll, yes. Choose a table where your bankroll allows for 20–40 minimum bets.

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Final Thoughts  

Knowing what blackjack tables to avoid is one of the easiest ways to protect your bankroll and boost your chances of winning. Don’t just sit down at the first open seat.  Look at the rules, the shuffling method, the payout structure, and the number of decks. And remember, every little edge you can grab matters.  With a smart approach and the right tools, like Black Ops Blackjack, you can stop making mistakes and start playing like a pro.  

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Mastering Basic Blackjack Strategy: The Real Key to Winning More Often

 

Posted by Black Ops Blackjack |

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Blackjack isn't just a game of luck. If you want to walk away from the table with more than you started, understanding basic blackjack strategy is your first and most important step.

In this post, we’ll break down what basic strategy is, why it matters, and how you can start using it right away to boost your odds.

What Is Basic Blackjack Strategy?

Basic blackjack strategy is a set of mathematically-proven decisions that tell you the best move to make in every situation, based on your hand and the dealer’s card.

It’s designed to reduce the house edge (casino’s advantage) from around 2% down to as low as 0.5%, depending on the rules of the table.

With basic strategy:

• You don’t guess.

• You don’t rely on hunches.

• You make smart, percentage-based plays that keep you in the game longer.

Why Is Basic Strategy So Important?

Keep it simple:

Most blackjack players lose because they make emotional or uneducated decisions.

When you use a basic strategy chart, you eliminate that guesswork. Over hundreds of hands, it saves you money, protects your bankroll, and gives you your best shot at walking away a winner.

 

The Core Rules of Basic Blackjack Strategy:

Here are some of the most essential rules that make up basic strategy:

-Always Stand on Hard 17 or Higher

It’s too risky to hit with 17 or more. If you have a “hard” 17 (no Ace counted as 11), stand no matter what.

-Hit on 8 or Less

If your hand totals 8 or less, always hit. You can’t bust, and you need to improve.

-Double Down on 11

Unless the dealer is showing an Ace, double down on 11. You’re in a strong position to hit 21.

-Always Split Aces and 8s

Two Aces give you two chances at 21. Two 8s break up a bad 16 into two potentially better hands.

-Never Split 10s or 5s

Don’t break up a winning hand (20), and don’t split 5s into two weak hands.

-Surrender 16 Against Dealer 9, 10, or Ace (If Allowed)

This move minimizes your loss in a tough spot. Use it when the casino allows it.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Even experienced players slip up. Watch out for these:

•  Standing on soft 18 vs. dealer 9 or 10 — You should hit or double instead.

•  Forgetting to double on 10 or 11.

•  Playing with your emotions or going on “feel.”

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 FAQ: Basic Blackjack Strategy

Q: Can basic strategy guarantee I’ll win?
No, but it guarantees you’ll lose less over time. It gives you the best odds possible without counting cards.

Q: Can I use a strategy card at the casino?
Yes! Casinos allow printed charts as long as they’re not electronic.

Q: Does strategy change with different numbers of decks?
Yes, slightly. Use a chart specific to the number of decks in play

 

Final Thoughts

Basic blackjack strategy is the foundation of winning blackjack. It’s not flashy, but it works. If you’re serious about winning more and losing less, mastering the basics is non-negotiable.

At Black Ops Blackjack, we teach you how to use this strategy and build on it—with advanced tools, video training, and techniques to turn you from casual player to serious competitor.

Ready to take your game to the next level?

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Bankroll Management in Blackjack: Stay in the Game Longer

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Ever feel like you’re playing well but still going broke too fast? The problem might not be how you play—it’s how you manage your money.

Let’s walk through the basics of bankroll management, why it matters, and how to avoid going bust too soon.

 

Why Bankroll Management Matters

You can’t win if you’re out of money. Good bankroll management helps you:

• Survive losing streaks

• Avoid emotional decisions

• Play long enough to let your strategy work

How Much Money Should You Bring?

There are 3 levels of bankroll you should think about:

• Session Bankroll – What you bring to the table today

• Trip Bankroll – Your budget for a casino trip

• Total Bankroll – What you’ve set aside long-term for blackjack

 Pro Tip: Never bet more than 5% of your session bankroll on one hand. 1–2% is safer.

Smart Betting Systems

Here are a few ways to manage your bets:

• Flat Betting – Same bet every hand. Great for new players.

• True Count Scaling – Raise your bet only when the count is in your favor.

• 1–3–2–6 – A structured system that builds during win streaks and cuts losses fast.

FAQ

Q: How much should I bring to the table?
At least 20–40x the minimum bet.

Q: Should I chase losses?
Never. Stick to your plan.

Final Thoughts

Most players lose because they run out of money before their skills can shine. Manage your bankroll like a pro and you’ll stay in the game longer—and with way more control.

 

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 Blackjack Side Bets: Worth It or a Trap?

 

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Side bets are flashy, exciting, and tempting—but are they ever worth it?

Let’s look at the most common blackjack side bets, how they work, and when (if ever) you should actually make them.

What Are Side Bets?

These are extra wagers you can make alongside your regular hand. Some of the most popular ones:

• Perfect Pairs – Win if your first two cards are a pair

• 21+3 – Combines your cards + the dealer’s upcard into a poker hand

• Insurance – Pays 2:1 if the dealer has blackjack

• Bet Behind – Wager on another player’s hand

The Problem with Side Bets

Most have a house edge of 5% or higher. That’s brutal. They:

• Drain your bankroll fast

• Distract you from the main game

• Look exciting but don’t pay off long-term

Are Any Side Bets Ever Good?

• 21+3 can be okay if the payouts are solid and the base rules are favorable

• Perfect Pairs is fun—but still high risk

• Insurance is only good if you’re counting cards and the count is high

FAQ

Q: Is insurance worth it?
Not unless you’re a card counter.

Q: What’s the best side bet?
Honestly? None. Focus on playing the main game well.

Final Thoughts

If you’re serious about winning at blackjack, skip the side bets. They’re designed to pull extra money from players who don’t know better. Stick to strategy and smart bets.

 

 

How to Spot a Weak Dealer (And Use It to Your Advantage)

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Most players focus only on the cards. But there’s something else that can give you a real edge: the dealer.

Here’s how to spot when a dealer is making mistakes—and how to use that (legally) to boost your advantage.

Signs of a Weak or Inexperienced Dealer

• Nervous hands or hesitating – New dealers often give away their confidence level

• Inconsistent dealing speed – Fast on strong hands, slow on weak ones

• Accidental hole card flashes – Some dealers expose part of the face-down card without realizing it

​How This Helps You

• Slower pace gives you more time to count cards

• Sloppy dealing may reveal hole cards

• Less experienced dealers may miss technicalities or be more lenient on minor table errors

Reminder: Never cheat. This is all about paying attention—not manipulating the game.

FAQ 

Q: Can you really “read” a dealer?
Sometimes. Especially if you’re focused and know what to look for.

Q: Is this legal?
Yes. Observing and paying attention is not against the rules.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes dealers slip up. Stay alert, watch closely, and you might gain an extra edge just by being a smarter, more observant player.  

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