LAS VEGAS | CASINOS
How to win at blackjack in Las Vegas, an insider's guide
What to do
Try to find a table where you can combine the most number of these rules: Dealer stands on soft 17 (an ace-6 combination); player can re-split pairs including aces; player can double-down after splitting; house offers late surrender; and, if possible, play with the least number of decks.
Spend the $2 or so to pick up a laminated "basic strategy" guide from any casino gift shop. This is the mathematically correct way to play the game. Don't play on hunches, guesses or intuition.
Get a player's club card from each casino and use it. Being comped room, food, beverages, entertainment or merchandise helps offset losses.
Purchase a copy of the Current Blackjack News, or consult any online tracking service to see the house advantage at any table in Vegas. The cost of one bulletin is the same as one bet.
What not to do
Play when a blackjack game pays only 6-5. Insist on a 3-2 payout.
Play a "special" single-deck game, especially Super Fun 21. Payouts are always 6-5. Some rip-off versions offer even money on blackjack. Avoid these at all costs.
Play at a table with a continuous shuffle machine. You'll lose 20% faster and be at a disadvantage on every hand.
Play where you can double-down only on 10 or 11. You should be able to double-down on any two cards.
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