Hit Soft 17

In blackjack, the term Hit Soft 17 refers to a rule where the dealer is required to take another card when their hand totals 17 with an Ace counted as 11. A "soft 17" occurs when the dealer has an Ace (counted as 11) and any combination of cards that total six, such as Ace-6, Ace-2-4, or Ace-3-3. The rule varies from casino to casino, as some require the dealer to stand on all 17s, while others require the dealer to hit soft 17s.

Understanding whether or not a casino uses the "Hit Soft 17" rule can be important for blackjack players, as it impacts the house edge and the overall blackjack strategy employed during the game.

What is Hit Soft 17 in Blackjack?

In blackjack, a soft 17 occurs when the dealer has an Ace and cards that total 6, such as Ace-6 or Ace-2-4. Under the "Hit Soft 17" rule, the dealer must take another card if they have a soft 17. This rule changes the way the dealer plays their hand and can significantly influence the odds of the game.

Casinos that use the "Hit Soft 17" rule generally provide the dealer with a better chance of improving their hand, as an additional card could increase their total closer to 21, reducing the likelihood of a dealer bust. On the other hand, casinos that require the dealer to stand on soft 17s make it more difficult for the dealer to improve their hand, benefiting the player.

Key Details of Hit Soft 17 in Blackjack

The "Hit Soft 17" rule is an important aspect of blackjack, as it can influence the house edge and your approach to the game.

Definition: A "soft 17" is a hand where the dealer has an Ace counted as 11 and cards totaling 6, such as Ace-6.
Rule variations: Some casinos require the dealer to hit soft 17, while others require them to stand on all 17s.
Impact on house edge: The "Hit Soft 17" rule increases the house edge by approximately 0.2%.
Strategic changes: Players should adjust their strategy when playing against a dealer who hits soft 17 to account for the dealer's increased chances of improving their hand.
Common games: The "Hit Soft 17" rule is more common in European-style blackjack games and some Vegas strip games.

How to Play Against a Dealer Who Hits Soft 17

When playing against a dealer who must hit soft 17, it’s essential to adjust your strategy to account for the dealer’s increased potential to improve their hand. While the dealer has a higher chance of reaching a hand that is closer to 21, this also means that the dealer’s chances of busting are slightly lower compared to games where the dealer stands on soft 17.

Take extra caution when betting on hands where the dealer is showing a weak card, like a 4, 5, or 6.
Be more aggressive with your betting when the dealer is showing a strong card, like a 10 or Ace, because the dealer’s hand could improve with the additional card.
If the dealer’s upcard is weak (like 4, 5, or 6), consider standing on your 12–16, as the dealer is more likely to bust, even with the additional card.
Adjust your overall strategy based on the dealer’s hand and whether you’re playing with a "Hit Soft 17" rule in place.
Use a basic strategy chart that accounts for this rule to optimize your chances.

How Does Hit Soft 17 Work?

The "Hit Soft 17" rule works by requiring the dealer to take an additional card if they hold a hand consisting of an Ace counted as 11 and other cards totaling 6. This increases the dealer’s chances of improving their hand, as the new card may help them reach a stronger total closer to 21.

Without the "Hit Soft 17" rule, the dealer must stand on a soft 17, making their hand less likely to improve. By forcing the dealer to hit, casinos hope to create more situations where the dealer’s hand can become stronger, which may increase the chances of the player losing the hand.

The dealer’s soft 17 hand is defined as any Ace-6 combination (Ace + 6) or equivalent.
Once the dealer hits on a soft 17, their hand may increase, improving their total to a stronger hand.
If the dealer busts after hitting on soft 17, the players at the table win their hands.
The rule increases the casino’s house edge slightly, making it important for players to adjust their strategy.

Examples of Hit Soft 17 in Action

Example Scenario 1 – Soft 17 Dealer Hits:
The dealer shows an Ace, and their hand total is 6 (Ace-6). Under the "Hit Soft 17" rule, the dealer must take another card. The dealer draws a 4, making their hand total 10 (Ace-6-4). The dealer now has a stronger hand and proceeds to continue the round as normal.

Example Scenario 2 – Soft 17 Dealer Busts:
The dealer shows an Ace, and their hand total is 6 (Ace-6). The dealer hits and draws a 6, bringing their total to 12 (Ace-6-6). The dealer hits again and draws a 10, busting with a total of 22. The players at the table win.

Tips for Playing Against a Dealer Who Hits Soft 17

Know your odds: Keep in mind that a dealer who hits soft 17 will have an improved chance of reaching a better hand.
Stand on soft 17 or 18: In general, when you have a soft hand of 17 or 18, it's best to stand if the dealer shows a weak upcard.
Be cautious with 12-16 hands: In this range, you might want to stand if the dealer shows a weak card (4-6), but hit if the dealer shows a strong card (10 or Ace).
Use strategy charts for Hit Soft 17 games: Make sure to follow the best basic strategy specific to games where the dealer hits soft 17.
Be aware of the house edge: The "Hit Soft 17" rule increases the house edge, so it’s important to play cautiously and stick to basic strategy.

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FAQs about Hit Soft 17 in Blackjack

What is the "Hit Soft 17" rule?

The "Hit Soft 17" rule requires the dealer to take another card if they hold a hand consisting of an Ace counted as 11 and any other cards totaling 6, such as Ace-6.

How does the "Hit Soft 17" rule affect the house edge?

The "Hit Soft 17" rule increases the house edge by approximately 0.2% compared to games where the dealer stands on soft 17.

Should I adjust my strategy when playing against a dealer who hits soft 17?

Yes, players should adjust their strategy by being more aggressive when the dealer shows strong cards and more cautious when the dealer has a weak upcard.

Does the "Hit Soft 17" rule apply to all blackjack games?

No, some casinos use the "Hit Soft 17" rule, while others require the dealer to stand on all 17s. Always check the specific rules of the game you're playing.

Can the dealer bust when hitting on soft 17?

Yes, the dealer can bust if they draw cards that put their hand total over 21 after hitting on a soft 17.