Playing blackjack should rarely be done without using basic strategy; we’d only give you a pass if you want to have some quick fun and when losing doesn’t matter, such as house blackjack games.
However, if you want to make the best money possible in the long run, you should consider making the best move in every hand. One such hand could be two 6s.
Will you make more money if you split the 6s in two separate hands or will you stand a better chance of winning without splitting?
Pairs shouldn’t always be split, and in this post, we’ll explore whether splitting 6s is a good option.
SPLITTING IS ONE OF THE KEY ASPECTS OF BLACKJACK GAMES
Before we focus specifically on splitting 6s, it’s essential to emphasise the significance of splitting as a whole in the game of blackjack.
Splitting pairs is a fundamental aspect of the game strategy, allowing both single-deck and double-deck players to potentially double their winnings or minimise losses, either way, walking away from the table with more money.
For a better understanding about this topic, check out EnergyCasino’s post regarding when to split in blackjack.
Before looking to split hands, make sure that it is allowed by the house rules. To split, you must be dealt a pair of cards of the same rank; for example, a pair of aces. After splitting pairs, you will then have two hands to play.
Once you split, you will be dealt two cards (one for your first hand and one for your second hand) and you will carry on betting on both hands. So, an additional bet will be placed, equal to your original wager.
After the first two cards are dealt, you can continue making your moves for both hands, depending on what makes sense in the context of the table.
You should also make sure you know what rules the dealer abides by, such as if the dealer stands on soft 17.
SPLITTING IN BLACKJACK AS AN ELEMENT OF THE BLACKJACK BASIC STRATEGY
The blackjack basic strategy is a set of guidelines designed to optimise a player’s decisions based on the dealer’s up card.
Splitting pairs is an integral part of basic strategy, and mastering it is crucial for anyone looking to enhance their performance when they play blackjack.
By following the basic strategy, players can minimise the house edge and improve their chances of coming out on top.
Players generally tend to read up on blackjack basic strategy before they try splitting a pair or two, so make sure to consult EnergyCasino’s dedicated post on that matter.
Familiarise yourself with the basic blackjack strategy charts that guide you as a blackjack player. They will shed light on when to hit, stand, double down, and, of course, when to split.
This foundational knowledge will serve as the bedrock for making informed decisions during your blackjack sessions, and it will allow you to play blackjack efficiently, whether with your friends or at online casinos!
SPLITTING 6S A WAY TO GET A STRONG HAND IN BLACKJACK
A pair of 6s might seem like a modest starting point, but when played strategically, it can pave the way for a strong hand.
The decision to split 6s should be grounded in the specific circumstances of the game, considering both the dealer’s face card and the potential outcomes of splitting.
A PAIR OF SIXES IS A CHANCE TO BEAT THE DEALER
In blackjack, the ultimate goal is to beat the dealer without exceeding 21 points.
A pair of sixes provides an opportunity to achieve this goal by potentially turning a mediocre hand into two strong hands.
However, the decision to split should not be arbitrary; it should be based on a careful analysis of the dealer’s up card.
WHEN CAN BLACKJACK PLAYERS HIT A PAIR OF 6S?
To make an informed decision about splitting a pair of 6s, players must take into account the dealer’s face card.
Generally, splitting pairs is more favourable when the dealer’s face card is weak.
The ideal scenario for splitting 6s is when the dealer shows a low-value card (2 through 6), increasing the likelihood of the dealer busting.
WHAT IS THE GOAL OF SPLITTING PAIRS OF SIXES?
The primary objective of splitting pairs of sixes is to improve the overall chances of landing a win. By dividing the pair, players aim to create not one great hand, but two stronger hands, each starting with a six.
This strategic move allows players to capitalise on the dealer’s potential weakness and potentially secure a better outcome than they would with a single, un-split hand.
IS IT BETTER TO SPLIT OR HIT A PAIR OF SIXES?
The decision to split or hit a pair of 6s depends on the dealer’s card. As a general guideline, splits are more advantageous when the dealer’s face card is weak, while hitting is preferable when the dealer shows a strong face card.
Additionally, it’s crucial to note that split aces is almost always recommended, as it provides the opportunity to create two hands starting with a powerful ace, increasing the chances of bagging a win.
WHEN TO SPLIT A PAIR OF 6S IN BLACKJACK?
The decision to split a pair of 6s hinges on several factors, with the dealer’s card being the primary consideration, as we’ve mentioned.
DEALER WITH UP CARD
Here are some scenarios to consider:
- Dealer’s Card is 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6: In this scenario, the dealer has a weak face card. Split 6s is generally recommended as it puts the dealer in a vulnerable position, increasing the likelihood tjat the dealer busts. By splitting, you create two hands that can potentially beat the dealer.
- Dealer’s Card is 7 or 8: When the dealer shows a 7 or 8, which are considered neutral cards, the decision to split becomes more nuanced. Some players may opt to split, while others may choose to hit. It’s essential to consider your risk tolerance and the specific dynamics of the game.
- Dealer’s Card is 9, 10, or Ace: In this scenario, the dealer has a strong face card. It’s generally advisable to hit rather than split when the dealer’s ace is showing, as the likelihood of the dealer having a strong hand is high. Splitting in this situation could result in a bad two-card holding that can struggle to compete.
WHAT IS DIVIDING A PAIR OF SIXES AGAINST A DEUCE?
Dividing a pair of sixes against a dealer’s deuce (a two-value card) is considered a favourable situation for the player.
The dealer’s weak card increases the chances of them busting, while a split provides an opportunity to create two strong hands starting with a six.
This scenario aligns with the basic strategy of splits against weak dealer up cards.
WHEN SHOULD YOU NOT SPLIT A PAIR OF SIXES?
Like splits with other pairs, split 6s can be a powerful move in many situations. However, there are instances when it’s advisable to avoid this strategy.
- Dealer’s Card is 7, 8, 9, 10, or Ace: When the dealer shows a strong card, it’s generally better to hit rather than split. Splits in this situation increase the risk of playing with two weaker hands that may struggle to beat the dealer’s potentially strong hand.
- Personal Risk Tolerance: Some players may prefer a more conservative approach and choose not to split pairs in certain situations. Understanding your risk tolerance, playing style and general strategy is crucial when deciding whether to split 6s.
FOLLOW THE RULES FOR SPLITTING PAIRS OF SIXES AND INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING BLACKJACK
To maximise your success when playing blackjack and split pairs of sixes, adhere to the following rules:
- Refer to the Blackjack Basic Strategy Chart: Familiarise yourself with the basic strategy chart, which provides guidelines for optimal play based on the dealer’s card. This chart is a valuable tool for making informed decisions, including when to split pairs and how to play a bad hand.
- Consider the Dealer’s Card: The dealer’s card is a critical factor in deciding whether to split 6s. Assess the dealer’s card and follow the guidelines outlined earlier to determine the most favourable course of action.
- Evaluate Your Risk Tolerance: Understand your risk tolerance and playing style. Some players may be more conservative, while others are willing to take calculated risks. Tailor your decisions based on your comfort level and bet accordingly.
- Practice and Gain Experience: Like any skill, mastering the art of split pairs in blackjack takes practice. Consider playing in low-stakes or free-play environments to hone your decision-making skills and gain confidence in your ability to make strategic choices.
CONCLUSION
Blackjack is all about making the most of your hand in the hopes that the dealer busts, which would win you the hand. Split 6s are a good option when the dealer’s card is weak, since the chances that the dealer busts against your two (hopefully) strong hands are pretty substantial.
⭐ Is a pair of sixes a good hand for a player?
A pair of sixes is a modest starting point in blackjack, but it provides an opportunity to create two strong hands through splitting. Whether it's a good hand depends on the dealer's face cards throughout the rounds.
⭐ Is splitting pairs of sixes in blackjack a good move?
Splitting pairs of sixes can be a good move, especially when the dealer has a weak face card (2 through 6). It provides an opportunity to create two potentially strong hands and increases the odds of beating the dealer.
⭐ What's the best time to split a pair of sixes?
The best time to split a pair of sixes is when the dealer has a weak face card, typically a 2, 3 or more cards of lower rank.
⭐ What is pair re-splitting?
Pair re-splitting refers to the ability to split a pair of cards that have already been split once. Not all casinos allow pair re-splitting, as it isn't part of the basic rules that most games function by.
Therefore, it's essential to be aware of the specific rules of the blackjack game you're playing. If allowed, pair re-splitting can provide additional strategic opportunities for players to win money.