Blackjack Expected Values

Introduction

This menu is designed for tables displaying the expected values for each initial hand in blackjack. The values are based on 'composition dependency', which means that decisions are made considering the exact cards in the player’s hand rather than just the overall total.

Dealer Peeks at Hole Card

All figures in the next tables are based on the dealer having already peeked for blackjack, showing a ten or ace, and confirming that they do not have it.

• 1 deck, dealer stands on soft 17
• 1 deck, dealer hits on soft 17
• 2 decks, dealer stands on soft 17
• 2 decks, dealer hits on soft 17
• 4 decks, dealer stands on soft 17
• 4 decks, dealer hits on soft 17
• 5 decks, dealer stands on soft 17
• 5 decks, dealer hits on soft 17
• 6 decks, dealer stands on soft 17
• 6 decks, dealer hits on soft 17
• 8 decks, dealer stands on soft 17
• 8 decks, dealer hits on soft 17

No hole card scenario — Players forfeit their entire bet if the dealer achieves a blackjack.

The data presented in the following tables assumes there is no dealer hole card. If the dealer lands a blackjack, players will lose all bets made, which includes doubles and splits.

• In a five-deck game, the dealer adheres to standing on a soft 17 and has no hole card.
• In a five-deck scenario, the dealer will hit on a soft 17, and there is no hole card involved.
• In a six-deck game, the dealer stands on soft 17, with no hidden cards.
• In a six-deck configuration, the dealer takes a hit on a soft 17, again under no hole card conditions.
• 8 decks, dealer stands on soft 17
• In an eight-deck situation, the dealer is instructed to hit on soft 17 without any hole card.

Additional resources for comparable expected values can be found here:

• Blackjack Attack by Don Schlesinger
• Professional Blackjack by Stanford Wong.

Written by: Michael Shackleford