The
Hi/Lo Counting System
Some
consider Blackjack card counting a thing of the past. This seems to be based on
the fact most casinos, home games or back room parlors now use a number of decks
instead of just one. Card counting with a number of decks is a lot harder but
can still be worked into an advantage for the player.
The
easiest method and most popular method is known as the high/low count. Keep in
mind it is essential that you have a good memory and the ability to concentrate
in order to be successful.
This
method gives the player a rough idea of how many 'high' or 'low' cards
are in the deck. It is also very important that a player practices this system
before actually going out and gambling their hard earned money at a casino.
Once
you're in the casino it is important to be wary of your surroundings. The
dealers and pit bosses are required to watch all players. They are in the
business of making money. While card counting provides a player with a big
advantage if they are good at it. This practice is not profitable for the casino
and they will watch for it.
Tips
to not be obvious:
♣
Dress down for the occasion, or dress and act like a tourist
♣
Ignore the distractions, waitresses, casino noise and table chat
can throw off your count.
♣
Get excited when you win.
♣
Talk to the dealer and other players at the table.
What
happens when you're caught or suspected of counting? Gone are the days when they would haul you into the back room
and break your fingers. Card counting is not illegal but casinos are not in
business to lose money. If you are suspected of counting you will be asked to
leave the casino.
The
High/Low Counting System
The
first step in learning the high/low system is you need to remember the
following values:
♥
Cards 2,3,4,5 or 6
value receive a positive count.
{+1}
♥
Cards 7, 8, 9 receive no value and are remembered as a 0 {Zero}
♥
Cards 10,J,Q,K,A receive a negative count.
{-1}
So
let's pretend that we have the following table:
Do
you know what the count is at? If you came to -7 you're on the way to being a
card counter. Keep in mind when you
are counting, that the optimal time to bet is when you reach positive numbers.
This means that there are more 'high' cards left in the shoe.
So
once you have practiced this you will have the running count down pat.
You know need to know who to calculate the 'True Count' Keep Reading
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