In blackjack, the term “soft 17” refers to a hand consisting of an ace and a 6, leading to a total of either 7 or 17. This hand is pivotal in blackjack strategy, particularly concerning the dealer’s actions on a soft 17, which can significantly affect the house edge and gameplay.
Understanding Soft 17
- Composition: A soft 17 is made up of an Ace and a 6, where the Ace can be counted as 1 or 11 without busting the hand.
- Flexibility: This soft hand is unique because it offers flexibility; the player or dealer can draw additional cards without the risk of busting immediately.
Dealer’s Rule on Soft 17
Casinos have specific rules about how the dealer must play a soft 17. These rules are typically printed on the blackjack table and can be one of the following:
- Hit on Soft 17 (H17): The dealer must take additional cards until reaching a hard 17 or higher.
- Stand on Soft 17 (S17): The dealer must stand and not take any additional cards.
Impact on House Edge
- H17 Rule: Increases the house edge, meaning it’s slightly less favorable for players. The dealer has additional chances to improve their hand.
- S17 Rule: Reduces the house edge and is generally more favorable for players.
Strategy for Playing Soft 17
Your strategy when dealt a soft 17 should depend on the dealer’s upcard and the specific rules of the blackjack table:
If the Dealer Hits on Soft 17 (H17)
- Against Lower Dealer Cards (2-6): Consider doubling down as the dealer has a higher chance of busting.
- Against Higher Dealer Cards (7-Ace): It’s often best to hit to try and achieve a higher total since the dealer has a strong chance of achieving a competitive hand.
If the Dealer Stands on Soft 17 (S17)
- Versatile Strategy: Players might opt to stand, especially if the dealer shows a card that could lead to a bust (like 5 or 6), or hit if the dealer shows a strong upcard (like 9, 10, or Ace).
Conclusion
Understanding the significance of soft 17 in blackjack is crucial for both new and experienced players. This knowledge helps in making informed decisions and adapting strategies based on the casino’s rules. Always check the table’s rule for the dealer’s play on a soft 17 to optimize your strategy and improve your chances of winning.