Playing blackjack is both an accomplished skill as well as an art. Money management, basic strategy, casino and table selection and much more are the skills initially required. Each of these tasks has to be managed smoothly and effortlessly. The development of a player “act” then becomes as important as learning the skill of playing itself. You must remember that casino management has read all the same books as card counters. Management is then trained to look for those players that can take profits away from them. Therefore, the skilled player must be able to remain in the game and not be asked to leave.
What then are the ways to develop your “act”? First, consider 45 minutes to an hour the maximum time in any one casino. You might play at two or three different tables and pits, but within an hour’s time management will begin to suspect you’re a skilled player. They will then start to take steps against you. Limiting your time in any one casino will allow you to get in and out without too much trouble.
Next, limit your betting spread. With a single deck it’s recommended to play 1 to 4 units. Remember, a unit is your basic bet. For example, if $10 is you basic bet, than two units would be a $20 bet, four units would be $40. With a multi-deck 1 to 6 or possibly 1 to 8 units can be accomplished without too much heat. The important thing is to gradually build up your bet. Don’t jump from two units to eight units in one play. This will alert the whole pit crew. Maybe let a two unit win “ride” giving you a quick four unit bet. If you win that hand you might feel “lucky” and again “let it ride.” You now have a maximum 8 unit bet and the pit point of view is you are simply a short term lucky player, which is what you want them to think.
The whole idea is not to bring attention to yourself. Another tip is to try and NOT be the biggest bettor at the table. And finally, if the floor man or pit boss starts hanging around your table, it’s a sure sign to move on.
