Playing Pairs in Blackjack

If a player has two same cards in his initial hand, then it is called ‘pairs’. If you know how to play pairs using the basic blackjack strategy, you can considerably reduce the house edge. In this article, we will discuss how to play pairs in blackjack.

To start playing pairs, first check what is the value of the dealer’s up card. Look at the pair you have in you hand.

• Always stand, if you are having a pair of 10s.
• Always split, if you are having a pair of 8s or Aces.
• If you are having a pair of 2s or 3s, then split if the dealer’s face up card is 2 to 7, else hit.
• Split if the dealer’s face up card 2 to 7, and you are having a pair of 7s. Otherwise hit.
• If you are having a pair of 4s, then split if the dealer’s face up card is 4 or 5, else hit.
• If you are having a pair of 5s, then double if the dealer’s face up card is 2 to 9, else hit.
• If you are having a pair of 6s, then split if the dealer’s face up card is 2 to 6, else hit.
• If you are having a pair of 9s, then split if the dealer’s face up card is 2 to 6, or 8 or 9. If the dealer’s face up card is Ace, 7 or 10, then stand.

These tips for playing pairs in blackjack are focused on 4 to 8 deck blackjack games, and where the casinos allow splitting and doubling. Before you play blackjack, make sure that the casino you selected allows splitting and doubling. To decrease the house advantage and increase your chances for winning blackjack, learn the various strategies for single deck and double deck blackjack games. Enjoy Blackjack!