Composition-dependent strategy:multi-card 16 v. dealer 10

[Caesar]

According to Mr. Renzey, the player should stand on a multi-card 16 v. a dealer 10 only when that player hand contains a 4 or a 5. However, I have read elsewhere that the correct play is to stand on all multi-card 16 hands v. a 10.
I understand that the difference between these two plays is probably slight, but I'd like to know the mathematically correct play. Although the difference may be small, the hand does occur quite often. Also, would the correct play vary according to the number of decks or rules on the game?

 

[MangoJ]

Obviously for infinite number of decks, it doesn't matter how your hand is composed, and every composition-dependent strategy will turn total-dependent.

On the other hand, for single deck composition is important, and you can find composition-dependent strategy here.

There you find lot's of compositions for 16v9 and 16v10. The rule of 5 is only an approximation.

About multiple decks ? I don't know, one would have to run calculations the same style as done for Single Deck. My guess is, for Double deck optimum strategy would almost look like the same, while for 6D it will be total-dependent.

 

[Renzey]

About multiple decks ? I don't know, one would have to run calculations the same style as done for Single Deck. My guess is, for Double deck optimum strategy would almost look like the same, while for 6D it will be total-dependent.

To coin the "Rule of 45", I viewed a chart listing 210 six deck iterations of 16 vs. 10 (from 2 to 8 cards in the hand). Short of memorizing the correct play for all 210, the Rule of 45 was the best blanket rule I could come up with.

Remember though, the rule is for non-counters, and goes just a small niche beyond generic basic strategy.

 

[Caesar]

Thanks for both replies

The Wizard of Odds has this at Appendix 18 in his blackjack section. I'm a non-counter who plays mostly when there is a promotion.
Mr Renzey: Good to hear from you. I own the Bluebook and have read your articles at casinocity on poker and blackjack.