Volume 2 - Number 4
April 1, 1999
Blackjack Pro®
Pursuing Excellence and Profit
Niagara Falls Gaming Competition
Possibly the biggest reason Las Vegas casinos have so many different types of
Blackjack to play is the fact that they have to compete. The new casino sited in
Niagara Falls will create this same situation when it opens only a short distance
from the present casino, obviously on a smaller scale. How can we use this to
our advantage?
Although we can hope for at least a 6 deck game instead of the present 8 deck
games, this is not much of a difference. It is possible that there will be a
lower table limit at one of these two casinos to bring in more players. The
recent addition of nickel slot machines is evidence that the casinos are willing
to accommodate small time play to keep everyone in the game.
Since the new casino will also have a 350 room hotel, it is more than likely
players rates will apply. You may even get invited for a free night during the
week which would make your trips more worth while. The present casino
may have to work a deal with the hotel next door to it to try and compete.
It will never end up being a "sawdust joint", but playing there may start to
be a good deal.
Playing Multiple Hands
Counters can play multiple hands when they know they have a positive
expectation. Playing 2 hands reduces the players risk by 15%, 3 hands
by 22%, and 4 hands by 26%. This risk reduction can be used either
for safety, or to increase the total amount bet during positive counts.
For example, if your bet should be $100, by splitting to 2 hands, the
total bet can be $115 with the same amount if risk. This way the total
amount of action is increased, and so is the total expected income.
You could also stick to 2 hands of $50 and use the decreased risk to
protect your bankroll from large fluctuations.
Back Counting games with High Minimums
One of the casinos counter measures against winning players is an
increase in the table minimum bet. A minimum bet of $15 is 3 times
as bad as a $5 minimum. Things like this are designed to beat everyone,
not just counting players. This kind of treatment calls for tricks of the
trade to beat the casino.
Back counting is simply standing near the table and counting the cards.
The player makes no bets until they have an advantage. This has to
be done at a table where there is an empty spot, or where you can cap
a players bet with yours. This player should be a perfect Basic Strategy
player at the least. Try the $25 and $50 minimum tables for this kind
of action, and only play True Counts of +2 and higher.
Train for Profit
Take the time to learn to play Blackjack professionally. Go beyond Basic Strategy one step at a time and
become a Professional Card Counter. From simple counts to advanced systems, accompanied by sound
money management skills, anyone can learn to make "Easy Money". Get in touch with Rob at
blakjack@idirect.com.
Visit the Blackjack Pro® Website at
http://webhome.idirect.com/~blakjack
for the latest information on the game, not only in Southern Ontario, but all of North America.
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