APPLICATION OF ACE HIGH BLACKJACK

The aces card in blackjack is one of the best tools to help you win, giving you a unique flexibility to reach twenty one either by being counted as one or 11 — completely at the player’s discretion!

In this blog, we’ll be exploring ace low and ace high blackjack. Every blackjack player our there must know how to use ace high blackjack, the extremely powerful tool in this game, should it pop up in your card draw.

THE VALUE OF ACES IN A BLACKJACK HAND

As mentioned above, the ace can have two different values depending on the context of the hand.

An ace high blackjack will have a value of 11 unless that would give a player or the dealer a score in excess of 21; in which case, it has a value of 1.

Understanding how the value of aces can change within the context of a blackjack hand is essential for crafting a winning hand, and it’s important when learning basic strategy, too!

If you want to have a better look at each card value in this game, feel free to visit our detailed guide here.

WHY IS ACE SO IMPORTANT IN A BLACKJACK HAND?

The ace is not just another card; it holds a unique status in the world of blackjack. Its versatility stems from its ability to serve as both a high (11) and low (1) card, providing players with strategic flexibility.

Ace high blackjack refers to aces worth 11, whereas ace low refers to aces worth 1.

The significance of the ace lies in its capacity to adapt to the specific needs of a hand. A closer look at the scenarios in which the ace shines brightest sheds light on why it is an indispensable asset in blackjack.

WHAT ROLE DOES THE ACE PLAY IN COUNTING CARDS IN BLACKJACK?

The point of card counting isn’t merely about tracking the numerical value of cards, but it involves discerning the shifting balance of high and low cards in the deck.

The ace, being the chameleon of the deck, introduces a dynamic element that requires quite a lot of observation and calculation. When the deck is rich in aces, players can adjust their strategy to take advantage of favourable conditions, anticipating potential shifts in the game’s momentum.

Conversely, recognising when the deck is depleted of aces is equally crucial. This informs players of a potential scarcity of high-value cards, prompting adjustments in their approach. The ace, therefore, becomes a barometer for card counters, guiding them in navigating the flow of the game.

WHAT ARE DOUBLE ACES IN BLACKJACK?

When dealt a pair of aces, players have the option to split them into two separate hands, initiating a strategic manoeuvre known as “splitting aces.” This decision is not only permitted but is often highly recommended to always split aces, as it maximises the odds of winning with two hands.

This way, you can choose to be dealt an additional card for each hand and thus play each hand separately. It’s important to note that splitting pairs may be subject to additional rules.

When it comes to the betting aspect, splitting aces involves placing an additional bet equal to the original wager on the second hand. This means that players essentially have two active bets in play, each corresponding to one of the split aces.

ARE DOUBLE ACES AND PAIR OF ACES THE SAME?

While the terms might sound interchangeable, a nuanced understanding reveals subtle differences. A pair of aces refers to being dealt two aces in a hand, whereas double aces encompass not only the initial deal but also the subsequent point after splitting aces.

HOW TO PLAY ACE HANDS IN BLACKJACK?

When dealt an ace, the key lies in adapting your strategy based on the accompanying card and the specific scenario. In situations where an ace is paired with a 10-point card (thus, the ace worth is 11), achieving a natural blackjack is within reach, presenting an opportunity for an instant win.

Conversely, when the ace worth is one, it provides players with the advantage of making strategic decisions without the risk of busting. The versatility of aces demands careful consideration, and players must weigh their options based on what the dealer shows and the overall dynamics of the game.

WHAT IS THE STARTING ACE HAND IN BLACKJACK?

Of all the cards, starting with an ace presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges compared to any other card. Drawing any of the face cards (or other cards with a 10 value), will maximise their full potential of achieving a natural.

Although it is definitely possible to lose with an ace card as your first card, it provides you a better opportunity for winning a payout compared to other cards.

WHAT TO DO IF THE DEALER HIT TWO ACES?

Facing a dealer armed with two aces is a challenging scenario that demands strategic finesse. The dealer’s options in this situation may vary depending on the specific rules of the blackjack variant being played. Typically, the dealer will proceed by considering whether to count the aces as one or eleven, adhering to the flexibility inherent in the ace’s value.

As a player, your response hinges on the cards in your own hand. If you have a solid hand, considering the possibility of a natural blackjack, you may choose to stand and let the dealer reveal the outcome of their draw. On the other hand, if your hand is less formidable, contemplating strategic decisions like hitting or doubling down becomes crucial.

Either way, winning a payout in any blackjack game requires a good mix of strategy and luck. Although you might lower the odds that you lose thanks to strategy (possibly even by a card count), losing your original bet will happen every now and then.

Your best bet is to evaluate the situation before placing your original bet, reading up on soft hand and hard hand dealer rules and employ strategy wherever possible. Refraining from placing a side bet or any other additional wager that casinos might offer, since you’ll see less of your money in the long term.