Blackjack Myths Explained Part 2: Big Hands are Better than Small Hands

Last time we had a look at the classic blackjack myth of Card Flow and this time we are looking at big hands and small hands. This time we are going to look at the myth that you need to get as close to 21 as you can. In reality we all know that this is nonsense and that you only have to beat the dealer’s hand so if the dealer busts and you are sitting there with 13 then you win.

The most common reason for losing in blackjack for players that do not understand basic strategy or who do not follow the basic strategy is to hit when you should have stood. Trying to get closer to 21 to make your hand stronger is a complete fallacy and the only things that matter are your cards and dealer’s up card. Depending on what the dealer is showing and what you are holding you make your decision – there is no third parameter.

Don’t be swayed by the dealer is hot or the dealer is cold thoughts from fellow casino blackjack players. Just play blackjack using basic strategy and ignore the calls of other players. Ignore doubling when the dealer shows ten, ignore hitting on 12 when the dealer shows 6. Make sure you stand on 13 to 17 when the dealer shows a 2 to a 6 and you are halfway there. Ignore the myth that you need to get close to 21 as it just isn’t true and will help you become a losing blackjack player.