basic strategy/# of decks

I typically don't play single or two decks in Vegas, because most of the $10 tables only pay 6 to 5 odds. Therefore, I have not memorized the basic strategy for single or double decks, even though there are only a few differences between that and four or more decks. My question is this: If I play at a single or double deck table with 3 to 2 odds on BJ and dealer hits on soft 17, but I use the 4 or more deck basic strategy, how much am I adding to the house edge?

Thanks,

Ken

Quote: swngn11

I typically don't play single or two decks in Vegas, because most of the $10 tables only pay 6 to 5 odds. Therefore, I have not memorized the basic strategy for single or double decks, even though there are only a few differences between that and four or more decks. My question is this: If I play at a single or double deck table with 3 to 2 odds on BJ and dealer hits on soft 17, but I use the 4 or more deck basic strategy, how much am I adding to the house edge?

Thanks,

Ken

I can't answer you question, Ken, but there is a way to play optimally. Click on Wizard of Odds and print a strategy chart for any set of rules you think you may encounter. You'll find differences in splits and double downs and there are too many to ignore. If you can't memorize them before your trip don't worry. You are allowed to bring the chart to the table at every casino that I can think of. If a pit boss asks to see it he or she is just being curious.

As far as I know, there are only two differences, and I don't think they're particularly significant:

Hard 16 vs dealer's 10 - with 3+ decks, hit; with 1-2 decks, stand

Soft 13 vs dealer's 5 - with 3+ decks, do not double; with 1-2 decks, double

For single deck with double after split:

Split 4,4 vs 4,5,6. Split 3,3 and 7,7 vs 8. Split 6,6 vs 7.

Double soft 17 vs 2 and soft 13 vs 4. Double hard 8 vs 5 and 6.