Casino Observer

Basic Strategy for Pairs

In this section you can read all about the detailed rules for splitting pairs. Note that the hands on the pictures show examples of hands you can be dealt. Remember that suits do not matter in blackjack (unless otherwise stated).

Rules for Pairs

Pairs of 2's, 3's, 7's

vs
dealer

Split
o/wise
Hit

Split pairs of 2s, 3s and 7s against the dealer's up cards from 2-7, otherwise hit. The dealer has a high possibility of going bust when he hits, so you should increase the bet!

Pairs of 4's

vs
dealer

Split
o/wise
Hit

The only time you should split a pair of 4s is against the dealer's up card of 5 or 6. In most cases you shouldn't split 4's as you have a total of 8 and can get a good hand with a hit. However, a dealer with 5 or 6 is likely to bust.

Pairs of 6's

vs
dealer

Split
o/wise
Hit

Split a pair of 6s if the dealer shows 2 to 6. The dealer's hand gives him high chances of going bust, therefore this is a good opportunity to split the cards.

Pairs of 8's and Aces

and

Always
Split

Split pairs of 8s and Aces. The worst hands are 16, and 12, so you should always split the 8s and Aces for better hands.

vs dealer to	Split	Split a pair of 9s against the dealer's 2-6. The dealer has a good chance to go bust, thus you have a better chance of winning if you split.
Pair of 9's vs dealer to	Stand	Split against dealer's 8-9. As you have a total of 18, you will be very likely to go bust if you hit and unlikely to win if you stand, therefore you should split and hope for a good card on one of the hands.
vs dealer or or	Stand	Stand against the dealer's 7, 10 or an Ace. Your hand of 18 is likely to beat the dealer's 7, and it makes no sense to split them now.