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About Ryan Board
Expertise
I can answer all blackjack questions ranging from betting, strategy, and basic counting, to ADVANCED card counting systems. I am a professional player and an expert card counter. I have been asked not to play because of my skills at Caesar's Palace, MGM Mirage, Bellagio, New York New York,and numerous overseas casinos.

Experience
I am a professional card counter and have been asked not to play by numerous casinos. I have consulted for casinos as well. I currently run a website at www.championshipblackjack.com

Publications
www.championshipblackjack.com

Education/Credentials
Bachelor's in finance. I am finishing a master's in finance currently.

Awards and Honors
Winner of numerous blackjack tournaments.

Past/Present clients
I have taught many players through my seminars.

You are here: Experts > Sports > Horse Racing > Gambling > Basic Blackjack

Gambling - Basic Blackjack

Expert: Ryan Board - 10/2/2009

Question
Dear Ryan,

Thank you for taking the time to read my question. I am sorry this is a very basic question, but it has caused quite an argument between my friend and I.

In blackjack, when betting, what are the standard rules. I seem to recall that you would 'buy in' to a hand with a bet, and once your cards are dealt you cannot increase your bet. My friend thinks that the first bet is made after you receive your cards.

We are also puzzled over whether or not the dealer reveals both cards to begin with, or if only one card is revealed until all the players are finished betting.

I think it is right that if the dealer has 16 or less, they must take another card, and if they have 17 or more they must stick.

I know these are basic but your help would be much appreciated.

Best Wishes,

Ken

Answer
Hi Ken,

You place your bet before getting your two cards. In certain cases, you can double your bet after seeing your cards; however, when you do this you are only allowed one hit card. This is called doubling down.

Also, in the US and some other countries, the dealer has two cards as well...one up and one down. In other countries, the dealer starts with just one card face up, and doesn't draw his second card until all the other hands are played out.

Also, dealers always have to take cards until they reach 17 for a total. However, when dealing with a soft hand (Ace, SIX) some casinos consider that already 17 and stay, while others will consider it soft and hit it.

Where in the UK are you? I am planning a seminar there shortly and perhaps you and your friend would be interested in attending.

Ryan

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