Multi-Hand Game Overview and Strategies
I know that many online gamblers in the UK play regular blackjack. You can win decent money with blackjack, particularly if you get your betting pattern absolutely perfect. However, there is a better way to play blackjack (in my opinion); let me introduce you to the world of multi-hand blackjack.
The Rules of Multi-Hand Blackjack
The significant difference between regular blackjack and multi-hand blackjack is, yep, you guessed it, the fact that you can play multiple hands. Somewhere between five and eight decks of cards are used for this. Honestly, the number of decks does not matter all that much as you are gambling online.
For the most part, unless you are playing a variation of the game, the rules will be the same as standard blackjack. Each hand you play during multi-hand blackjack will be played separately. You just, in theory, have more of an opportunity to win as you are playing multiple hands. Whenever you play multi-hand blackjack online, you should always read the rules sheet that the online casino provides. This should give you an idea of how you should play the game and anything important that you should keep in mind.
Lower House Edge
You will unlikely find a ‘straight’ version of blackjack because the house edge is so woefully small. The number of decks being used will dictate what the house edge is. If you play multi-hand blackjack, then the house edge is 0.58%. However, the house edge plummets to 0.46% if the rules for the game allow you to double after splitting, so make sure that you check those rules.
Using Your Insurance Bet
As multi-hand blackjack is, for all intents and purposes, the same as regular blackjack, you can bet in much the same way. This includes being able to place an insurance bet. It is unlikely that this would not be allowed, but once again, it is important that you check the rules before you begin.
When you are dealt two face-up cards, and the dealer has received their cards (one face up, one face down), you will have the opportunity to place an insurance bet. If you lose, then you will receive a pay out of 2-1 on your insurance bet.
Generally speaking, I do not recommend placing an insurance bet, because their house edge is far too high to make it worth it. Sure, it is nice to think that you will get some money back if you lose, but, overall, you will make a loss. Remember, online gambling sites do not like to give away cash, so why would they even bother to offer an insurance bet if they felt that they would be paying out no matter the situation?
Tips For Playing & Multi-Hand Blackjack Strategy
Always familiarise yourself with the rules of blackjack before you play. As I said, multi-hand blackjack is the same rules, so this should be easy. While the odds will not be much greater if you play at a live casino, I suggest you play with a live dealer. It makes the whole gambling experience that much more fun, and plenty of different games are available at UK online casinos. You will also be encouraged to place slightly higher bets. This is good because blackjack has such decent odds, particularly if you follow these handy blackjack strategy tips which leading gambling guide iGamblingSites.com has kindly put together:
- Always hit on a hard 5-12. Doesn’t matter what the dealer’s card is UNLESS you have a hard 12 and the dealer has either a 4, 5, or 6.
- Always hit hard on 13 to 16 if the dealer has 7-10 or an Ace.
- Stand if you have a 13-16 and the dealer has a 2-6.
- Always stand if your cards are over 17.
- Double if you have a hard 9-11 and the dealer is 3-6.
- Double on hard 10-11 when the dealer has 7-10
- Soft 3-7 should give you a hit.
- Soft 8-10 stand BUT only if the dealer does not have a 9, 10 or an Ace (this applies to the previous tip too)
Staying Safe When Playing Online
Having the best strategy will always put you in a better position when playing blackjack online; however, always pick a licensed UK gambling site to ensure you play legitimate games. All UKGC licensed gambling sites will ensure you play fair games, claim fair casino bonuses, experience fast cash-out times and have enough responsible gambling tools at your disposal to help you remain in control.