On double deck (and some 6 deck)

[Tom McLean]

Hi, this is my first post. I have been reading on this site for some time and have never seen this subject come up (I know most readers disdain side bets and I mostly do, too). It is about a side bet (no, not lucky ladies). I think it is exploitable, especially on dd. I use the hi-lo system.

'Match the Dealer' is used on both dd and 6 deck, but the payoffs are better on the dd. 4:1 for an unsuited match of either of your cards to the dealer up card. 9:1 for 2 unsuiteds. 19:1 for a suited match (13:1 on 6 deck) and 23:1 (18:1 on 6 deck) for an unsuited/suited match.

Rules, split up to 4 hands (including aces), doa, das, hit s17, no surrender, penetration varies on dd from 50-70% and on 6 deck is 75-80%. These are the typical rules where I can play.

Although, I hadn't played bj for 20 yrs, I began again 3 yrs ago in mini-card rooms where I live. I figured out on my own that if there is a high plus count (or low minus count which I know I shouldn't play) it should increase the likelihood of a match as there would be either more high or low cards left in the decks. This is when I consider playing it.

On a side note, does anyone know when the new version of 'Blackjack Attack' will be out? Thanks, in advance for any replies.

 

[phantom007]

Match-the-Dealer Sidebet...

...I did a google search for this, and did find info. by Mike Shackleford, the Wizard of Odds. However, his odds were for rules somewhat different than what you posted. He showed:

DECKS UNSUITED SUITED HOUSE ADVANTAGE
..6D.............4:1...............9:1................3.06%
..8D.............3:1...............8:1................2.99%

I agree with your theory that this might actually be an Advantage play at strongly Pos. and Neg. Counts. My guess would be above +7-8 and below -9. Hopefully, some of the "math-folk" can give you better #'s. It looks like that one could even get serious with this, and keep some type of side count for the "neutral zone" (7,8,9) cards, i.e., to discover times when the decks remaining are deficient in BOTH big and little cards.

BJA#3 is due out in early March '04. rge21 is accepting "pre-orders" now if you are interested.

phantom007.

 

[Tom McLean]

Re: Match-the-Dealer Sidebet...

Thank you phantom007 for your trouble. I had seen those odds before from The Wizard, however they are for Spanish 21, I believe. Perhaps, it would be nearly the same for regular BJ or maybe better for positive counts due to more tens in the pack. Thanks again...