Introduction to Card Counting Blackjack
Card counting is a system for tracking the ratio of high and low cards that have been played in blackjack. By keeping track of the cards that have already been played, card counters can gain an advantage over the house by knowing which cards are left in the deck. This knowledge allows them to determine when the odds are in their favor and when they should bet more or less.
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Card counting is a popular technique used by many professional blackjack players. It is not illegal, but it is frowned upon by casinos. Casinos will often ban card counters or ask them to leave if they are caught.
How Does Card Counting Work?
Card counting works by assigning a numerical value to each card in the deck. Low cards, such as 2s and 3s, are given a negative value, while high cards like 10s and aces are given a positive value.
As the cards are dealt, the player keeps a running count in their head of the total value of the cards that have been dealt. This allows them to determine when the deck is “rich” in high cards, which increases the player’s chances of getting a blackjack. The player can then adjust their bet size to take advantage of the situation.
What is the “Hi-Lo” Card Counting System?
The most popular system for card counting is the “Hi-Lo” system. This system assigns the following values to the cards:
- 2s, 3s, 4s, 5s, 6s: +1
- 7s, 8s, 9s: 0
- 10s, Jacks, Queens, Kings, Aces: -1
As the cards are dealt, the player adds or subtracts the value of each card to their running total. When the total is positive, the deck is said to be “rich” in high cards and the player should increase their bet size. When the total is negative, the deck is said to be “poor” in high cards and the player should decrease their bet size.
What is the “Zen” Card Counting System?
The “Zen” system is a more advanced card counting system that is used by more experienced players. It assigns the following values to the cards:
- 2s, 7s, 8s: +1
- 3s, 4s, 6s: +2
- 5s: +3
- 9s: -1
- 10s, Jacks, Queens, Kings, Aces: -2
The Zen system is more accurate than the Hi-Lo system, but it is also harder to master.
Advantages of Card Counting
Card counting can be a very effective way to increase your chances of winning at blackjack. Some of the benefits of card counting include:
- You can gain an edge over the house.
- You can play blackjack with a lower house edge than other players.
- You can adjust your bets based on the cards remaining in the deck.
- You can play more conservatively when the deck is unfavorable.
Disadvantages of Card Counting
While card counting can be a very effective technique, there are also some drawbacks. Some of the disadvantages of card counting include:
- It takes a lot of practice and concentration to master.
- It is not allowed in most casinos.
- It can be difficult to keep track of the cards while playing.
- It can be difficult to disguise the fact that you are counting cards.
How Much Can You Make From Card Counting?
Card counting can be a very profitable activity. Professional card counters can make upwards of $100,000 a year. However, it is important to note that card counting is not a guaranteed way to make money. It requires a lot of skill and dedication to be successful.
How Much You Can Make Per Hour
The amount of money a card counter can make per hour depends on a few factors. These include the skill level of the card counter, the amount of money they are betting, and the house edge of the casino.
Generally speaking, a skilled card counter can make between $10 and $25 per hour. This is assuming they are betting $25 to $100 per hand.
How Much You Can Make Per Trip
The amount of money a card counter can make per trip also depends on a few factors. These include the skill level of the card counter, the amount of money they are betting, the house edge of the casino, and the length of the trip.
Generally speaking, a skilled card counter can make between $500 and $2,000 per trip. This is assuming they are betting $25 to $100 per hand and playing for a few days.
Conclusion
Card counting is a popular technique used by many professional blackjack players. It is not illegal, but it is frowned upon by casinos. Card counters can gain an advantage over the house by knowing which cards are left in the deck. This knowledge allows them to determine when the odds are in their favor and when they should bet more or less.
Card counting can be a very profitable activity. Professional card counters can make upwards of $100,000 a year. However, it is important to note that card counting is not a guaranteed way to make money. It requires a lot of skill and dedication to be successful.