Best Blackjack Counting System
Blackjack has always been one of the most popular casino games and it has a massive fan base all over the world. The casino classic is a way of entertaining gambling enthusiasts both at brick-and-mortar and web-based casinos. The thrill of playing against the dealer and hoping to have a blackjack has made the game one of the top ways to gamble with real money. Of course, there is also the chance of going home with a massive win thanks to your luck and good blackjack skills.
- Easiest Card Counting Systems
- Card Counting Systems For Blackjack
- Best Card Counting System
- Best Blackjack Counting System
Do not be fooled. Any type of gambling includes a big part of pure luck. If the stars have not been aligned and it is just not your day, you might end up being disappointed. However, there are most certainly some games that allow players to take the matter in their own hands, at least partially, and turn the odds in their favour. Blackjack is definitely one these games.
Whether you are a rookie in this field of gambling, or you have been playing for a while but it has always been unsuccessful, it is worth trying to play blackjack with a strategy. Some players believe that using the proper technique may guarantee them a win almost every time. If you are interested in the ways you can turn the table and win on blackjack, keep reading this article.
Card counting is a system for tracking the probability of receiving cards that are favorable to you, during the course of a game. Many apps claim to be the best blackjack card counting apps. At yet, this system meets the criterion of being at least 90% accurate. Best Card Counting System. Deciding which system is the “best” is generally a matter of personal preference—balancing the reliability of a system against the feasibility of learning and using it. All of the systems. In the Knockout Card Counting (KO Count) system, all card values are the same as in the Hi Low system, except for the value of the 7 take a look at the book Knock Out Blackjack for a more detailed look at the system. In the KO system, the seven is considered a low card and a plus value, while in the Hi Low system it is considered a neutral card.
Why You Should Use a Strategy While Playing Blackjack
If you are wondering if there is an actual strategy that can be used successfully at blackjack, you can be sure that it definitely helps to adopt some style of playing, rather than aimlessly lose your money on every hand you play. Although nothing is set in stone, there is definitely some type of benefit when you play using strategic moves and proper bankroll management.
One of the most popular strategies used in blackjack is card counting. It allows players to predict what can the upcoming cards be. This way it is possible to guess whether the following cards will be beneficial or not for the game. Using the right card counting technique can allow gambling enthusiasts to take the right decision and tip the scales in their favour.
Card counting system can actually improve the gaming skills of players and they can benefit from understanding the pattern that each game of blackjack is using. Another benefit of using card counting is that it helps to eliminate the cards that have already been dealt. The cards that have been removed from the deck influence the house edge in a way and it is good to know how the outcome of the game can be affected by each card that has been drawn from the deck.
Using card counting strategy basically allows players to understand better the dynamics of the game. This way they will be able to make easier decisions about their moves and bets. Rather than looking at this technique as a way to increase one’s wins, it can be said that card counting helps to decrease the losses. This is very important as it gives players a much better chance of actually sweeping good wins since they will be able to last longer in the game.
There is also a basic blackjack strategy that can be used by fans of the game of 21. Although everyone who is at least a little familiar with blackjack will know that hitting on 11 is the logical move, there are quite a lot of other situations when it can be pretty difficult to determine the move that should be done.
By utilising the basic strategy, newbies can quickly become seasoned blackjack players. If you look up for a basic blackjack strategy, you will come across charts with all possible hands that you may be holding and the moves you are advised to make under different circumstances.
Of course, depending on the blackjack variation that you are playing, it is possible that the strategy might change. This is why it is recommended to find the system that works for the version you are about to play and bet real money on.
Even though you can be certain that you will always win by using a basic strategy or a card counting system, it is much better to have some plan when you sit at the blackjack table. Otherwise, you can simply consider your gambling as a waste of time and money.
Types of Blackjack Strategies
The blackjack system you might use really depends on the type of game that you are playing. Whether you prefer to play at a land-based or an online casino also affects the type of strategy you might use. Although card counting is quite popular, it is quite impossible to use it at virtual casinos since most online variations of the game shuffle the deck after every hand that is being played. This makes the use of this technique useless. This being said, interactive players can easily have the table with the basic strategy in front of them and use it to decide their moves.
Basic Strategy
When you think of blackjack, you can say that the decisions made by the player determine a big part of the outcome. This is why it is a great advantage to have some kind of basic rules that can help you determine the best way to react to the dealer’s hand.
Each player’s decision can affect the way his/her hand is played out and it can also determine the results for the rest of the players on the table. This is why there has been a mathematical strategy that can be used during the game of 21. It provides a chance of improving the odds of winnings. This strategy, however, must be used every time you play. This way you will be able to tilt the scales in your favour and benefit from the best possible odds.
What is known as a basic strategy is a chart that shows you whether you are advised to hit, stand, double down or split under certain circumstances. On the chart, you will notice that there are sections that show all the possible hands you might be dealt. The dealer’s card that faces up is the other determining factor on the chart.
Although many rooky blackjack players prefer to follow their instincts and play cautiously due to the fear of going bust, using the basic strategy can significantly change their gambling experience. By relying on the chart, players can actually improve their chances in the game by making the optimal decision.
Although in blackjack, just like in any other casino game, the house has an advantage. However, the game of 21 is the perfect casino entertainment for many players as it has one of the lowest house edges. Using basic strategy can even make your chances of winning better.
There is definitely a benefit when blackjack players use basic strategy. For instance, when players use this technique, the house edge is lowered to 0.50%. This means that for every $100 that the player is betting, the house expects a win of $0.50. However, if the player is simply relying on his/her guts and plays without using a strategy, the house edge is rocketed to 2.5%. As you can see this is definitely a worse scenario for the player and much bigger advantage for the house.
Players’ Hand | Dealer’s Up Card | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | Ace | |
8 | H | H | H | D | D | H | H | H | H | H |
9 | H | D | D | D | D | H | H | H | H | H |
10 | D | D | D | D | D | D | H | H | H | H |
11 | D | D | D | D | D | D | D | H | H | H |
12 | H | H | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H |
13 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H |
14 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H |
15 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H |
16 | S | S | S | S | S | H | H | H | H | H |
Ace-2 | H | H | H | D | D | H | H | H | H | H |
Ace-3 | H | H | D | D | D | H | H | H | H | H |
Ace-4 | H | H | D | D | D | H | H | H | H | H |
Ace-5 | H | H | D | D | D | H | H | H | H | H |
Ace-6 | H | D | D | D | D | H | H | H | H | H |
Ace-7 | S | D | D | D | D | S | S | H | H | H |
Ace-8 | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S |
Ace-9 | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S | S |
Ace-Ace | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | H | H | H |
2-2 | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | H | H | H | H |
3-3 | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | H | H | H | H |
4-4 | H | H | H | SP | SP | H | H | H | H | H |
5-5 | D | D | D | D | D | D | H | H | H | H |
6-6 | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | H | H | H | H | H |
7-7 | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | H | H | H | H |
8-8 | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP |
9-9 | SP | SP | SP | SP | SP | S | SP | SP | S | S |
Card Counting
There is hardly anyone who has not heard about card counting, especially if they are interested in gambling. This advanced strategy is known to give players a big advantage. This is why although card counting is not illegal, many land-based casinos would kick out players who use this tactic.
Card counting is a strategy where you have to use your memory in order to keep track of which cards were dealt and which ones can be the upcoming cards in the next deal. This way players would be able to make better and easier decisions when it comes to their betting. Since in the majority of brick-and-mortar casinos the cards are dealt from a shoe, it can be predicted which cards have remained in the deck and this way the moves of players can be adjusted to the upcoming possibilities.
Most card counting techniques are based on the -1, 0, +1 system which gives each card of the deck a certain point. Usually the cards from 2 to 6 equal +1, the 7s, 8s and 9s are considered as 0 and face cards and Aces are counted as -1.
Thanks to the card counting tactic, players can get a general idea which cards have remained in the shoe after the first deal. However, the fact that many blackjack tables use several decks requires players to divide their current count by the number of remaining decks. This way they will get what is known as a true count.
Although card counting system was developed by mathematicians, it is a common misconception that only players with extraordinary mathematical skills and photographic memory can apply it. In fact, every average blackjack fan can develop the ability of card counting and use it in his/her gambling adventures. What is difficult to be learned, however, is hiding your skills from the dealers at land-based casinos. This might be an issue as many gambling facilities do not accept players who use card counting.
How Can You Use Card Counting
Although there are different variations of blackjack, the main of the classic one is to get a score of 21 without exceeding it. After being dealt two cards and taking a look at the dealer’s face-up card, players must make a decision about the move they would like to make.
In most cases, the deck is shuffled only once before the game begins. Players who use card counting will be able to keep track of the cards that have already been drawn and this way they will be able to deduce which cards have remained in the deck. This way blackjack enthusiasts will make a decision whether they would bet high or low. Let us assume that during the game only low-valued cards have been dealt. This would mean that there is a big chance that the upcoming cards may be Royals. This would be a great time to make a high bet. Having been dealt only high-value cards would imply that it is the best if you make low bets and hit without worrying about going to bust.
The essential thing about card counting is that the odds of the game change with every card that has been dealt. Usually, the dealer puts the hands that have been played in a discard tray. Only the remaining cards in the deck are used during the next deal. Usually, the card counting system revolves around estimating the possibility of drawing a 10-valued card from the remaining ones in the deck. The easiest way to count cards is by assigning them with a tag, i.e. +1, 0, -1.
Card Counting Systems
Since card counting is a strategy used by many blackjack players, it is no surprise that nowadays players can utilise various systems of counting. For those who are excited that test the card counting technique, there are several variations they can choose from.
Hi-Lo System
Probably the most widely known card counting system is the Hi-Lo (High-Low) one. Its popularity can be contributed to the fact that it is considered a very reliable system. What is more, this method of card counting is very easy to comprehend. The Hi-Lo system uses the so-called tagging technique which gives each card of the deck either a positive, a neutral or a negative value.
Thanks to this system of counting, players can adjust their bets easily. It is determined that those who utilise the Hi-Lo system would count the cards from 2 to 6 as +1, the ones from 7 to 9 as neutral (0) and the rest of the face cards and the Ace are tagged as -1.
Cards | Count |
---|---|
2, 3, 4, 5, 6 | +1 |
7, 8, 9 | 0 |
10, J, Q, K, A | -1 |
Red Seven
This system of card counting is another easy-to-use technique while playing blackjack. The method of assigning cards with positive, neutral and negative values is yet again used in Red Seven. However, there is a slight difference when it comes to the 7s of the deck. As the name of the system suggests, instead of counting the red seven as 0, you would give it a value of +1. The black seven is tagged as 0 and the counting principle for the rest of the cards is the same as the one in Hi-Lo.
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
2, 3, 4, 5, 6 | count +1 |
7 red | count +1 |
7 black | count 0 |
10, J, Q, K, A | count -1 |
KISS
This system of card counting has more to offer than simply an intricate name. KISS (Keep It Short and Simple) has three variations and the newest one definitely gives players bigger advantage compared with the original KISS system. This method is quite simplified which gives inexperienced players the opportunity to use it.
The reason why this system is so easy to be used by players is that they do not have to count almost half of the cards in the deck as they are irrelevant to the process of predicting the outcome. Those who use this method would have to give a new value only to the face cards and the ones from 4 to 6. The former ones are counted as -1, while the latter equal +1. The rest of the cards are counted as 0.
However, with the KISS 1 system, players would also have to count black deuces as +1. This is done so that the system becomes unbalanced which is a way of avoiding the conversion of the running count into a real count.
The KISS 2 counting method adds a few other cards you should keep in mind while playing. According to this system, the cards from 3 to 6 are counted as +1, along with the black deuces. Face cards and 10s are valued as -1 and the rest of the cards are tagged as 0.
Last but not least is the KISS 3 variation of this card counting system. It resembles the previous two but is optimized to provide the best odds and to help blackjack players make the best decision. If you want to use this method of card counting you will have to give the face cards, 10s and Aces a value of -1, while the cards from 3 to 7 should be counted as +1. The black deuces also worth +1, while all other cards are counted as 0.
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
3, 4, 5, 6, 7 | count +1 |
2 black | count +1 |
2 red | count 0 |
8, 9 | count 0 |
10, J, Q, K, A | count -1 |
K-O
The K-O (Knock Out) counting system resembles the Hi-Lo one a lot. Yet again, players give cards either positive, negative or neutral values. This way they can determine what can be the possible outcome of the game and make the best possible bets. According to this system the cards from 2 to 7 worth +1 point each. The face cards, 10s and the Aces are counted as -1 and the rest of the deck is counted as neutral.
As you can see, the K-O counting system is also pretty easy to be used in the game and even inexperienced players would have no issue utilising it. The K-O method of counting is not balanced since this will eliminate the need of converting the running count into a real count. What is more, when you play using this system, you might not start the count at 0 as you normally would. Depending on the number of decks used in the game, players might have to begin counting from a different number. If you are playing a single deck blackjack variation, your start-count will be 0. However, two decks would mean that you should start counting from -4. Six decks indicate a start of counting at -20, while a game with eight decks would mean that the count begins at -28.
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 | count +1 |
8, 9 | count 0 |
10, J, Q, K, A | count -1 |
Omega II
All of the aforementioned methods are level one card counting systems. This means that they are quite easy to comprehend and use. Omega II is a level two card counting technique. This means that players will have to sacrifice a bit more time to learn and memorise the specifics of this system. The efforts of learning Omega II, however, can definitely be repaid when players bet on blackjack.
The Omega II is one of the most accurate counting systems and it can give players a significant advantage if they learn how to properly use it. This is a multi-level system which means that there are some cards worth 2 points. Grasping the intricacies of this card counting technique allows players to make the most profitable decisions while playing the game of 21.
Although the Aces are counted as 0 in this system, it is recommended you keep a separate count about them. Since these cards play an important role in the forming of a blackjack, it is important to keep a track of how many Aces have remained in the play.
The Omega II system gives half of the low-valued cards +1, while the other half of low-valued cards are counted as +2. The 2s, 3s and 7s are worth +1 and the 4s, 5s and 6s are counted as +2. The 9s are worth -1, while the 10s are tagged as -2. The rest of the cards are counted as 0.
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
4, 5, 6 | count +2 |
2, 3, 7 | count +1 |
8, A | count 0 |
9 | count -1 |
10, J, Q, K | count -2 |
Hi-Opt I & Hi-Opt II
Hi-Opt (High Optimum) is a card counting system that has two different variations. The original Hi-Opt I version is a level one system that is still considered fairly easy but it is definitely more complex than the rest of level one systems. The Hi-Opt II card counting technique is the updated version of the first one. It is, however, more intricate and this is why it is a level two system.
Easiest Card Counting Systems
Both of the variations of Hi-Opt are not very suitable for beginners as they require quite the knowledge about the game of blackjack as well as the other level one systems of card counting. However, those who get familiar with this method, will be able to tilt the balance in their favour and enjoy great odds of winning.
Players who use Hi-Opt system do not make it their goal to memorize which were the cards that have been played, nor to predict which ones will be the next one to be played. The purpose of using this method is to estimate the ratio of high-value cards to low-value cards in the deck.
The Hi-Opt I system is very similar to the Hi-Lo one and it is considered to be more accurate. The thing that makes this technique more advanced, however, is the side counting of the Aces left in the game. The cards from 3 to 6 are worth +1, while the 10s are worth -1. The Aces, 2s, 7s, 8s and 9s are counted as 0.
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
3, 4, 5, 6 | count +1 |
2, 7, 8, 9, A | count 0 |
10, J, Q, K | count -1 |
If you decide to use the Hi-Opt II system, you will have to spare a bit more time to study the values used in this method of card counting. If you utilise this strategy while you play blackjack, you will have to count Aces, 8s and 9s as 0. The deuces, 3s, 6s and 7s are worth +1, while 4s and 5s are worth +2. The value for 10s is -2.
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
4, 5 | count +2 |
2, 3, 6, 7 | count +1 |
8, 9, A | count 0 |
10, J, Q, K | count -2 |
Zen Count
Zen Count is yet another system similar to Hi-Lo but the former is a little more complex. Even though the two methods of card counting resemble each other, the Zen Count provides a much better estimate of changes. This is why players who decide to use it may benefit a lot from learning this type of strategy. The system is definitely more suitable for seasoned players who are well aware of other card counting variations.
According to the Zen Count the 2s, 3s and 7s are valued +1 and 4s, 5s and 6s are worth +2. If you use this strategy the 10s would be counted as -1 and the Aces are worth -2 each. All of the rest of the cards in the deck are counted as neutral (0).
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
4, 5, 6 | count +2 |
2, 3, 7 | count +1 |
8, 9 | count 0 |
A | count -1 |
10, J, Q, K | count -2 |
Wong Halves
If you think that the previous systems are quite difficult to comprehend, wait until you see the Wong Halves method of card counting. Memorizing the values of cards is quite difficult as the system uses fractions. Due to the complexity of this strategy, there are rarely players who use it at land-based casinos. This being said, Wong Halves has proven to be one of the most accurate systems that can improve the odds and turn the tables in favour of the player. If you learn how to apply this strategy, you will be able to make the optimal betting decisions that can bring you amazing payouts.
In the Wong Halves method of card counting, the Aces and 10s are worth -1, 9s are worth -0.5. The deuces and the 7s are counted as +0.5 if you utilise this counting system. The worth of 3s, 4s and 6s is +1, while 5s are worth +1.5. As you can see it is quite the work to remember the value you must give to each card.
Card Value | Count |
---|---|
5 | count +1.5 |
3, 4, 6 | count +1 |
2, 7 | count +0.5 |
8 | count 0 |
9 | count -0.5 |
10, J, Q, K, A | count -1 |
Is Card Counting Legal
Unless there are some types of devices used during the card counting, utilising this system is not illegal. Even though many brick-and-mortar casinos have tried to take some measures against the card counting strategy, at the end of the day, you cannot be judged for using your skills or count in your mind.
The issue comes from the fact that many land-based casinos do not accept players who use card counting as a technique for playing blackjack. This is because blackjack players who use this type of strategy can actually cause serious losses to the casino. The majority of gambling facilities even hire experts who can spot card counters and throw them out of the casino. The worst part is that if players are caught using one of these systems, they can be blacklisted from other brick-and-mortar casinos as well.
In conclusion, card counting is definitely not illegal and you are not breaking any type of regulation. However, you will have a hard time finding a land-based casino that will not kick you out if you are found out counting cards. Unfortunately, most online versions of blackjack are also designed to prevent players from using this type of strategy. The majority of virtual blackjack games shuffle the decks of cards after each hand is played. This makes card counting impossible.
Other Tips You should Know Before Playing Blackjack
One of the most common tips for any type of gambling, including blackjack, is to set your budget and stick to it no matter what. By doing this, you can be sure that even if you are not on a winning streak, you will not exceed the amount you are willing to lose.
Another tip is to be aware that nothing is certain in this type of games. The word “gambling” itself means that you are relying on your luck and risking something in the hope of gaining another thing. This is why you should not use blackjack strategies with the mindset that you are guaranteed to win. Even if you use the right type of tactic, you are lowering the house edge but the odds are still in favour of the gambling facility/website.
Last but not least, you should pick the right strategy for you. Although a level two system of card counting might sound tempting to use, you should stick to a simpler one, at least at the beginning of your blackjack adventures. This way you will be able to control your losses which can also be beneficial in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
This is a term, used when there are different variations of blackjack and players need to get familiar with the rules used in the game of 21 they are playing. A blackjack variant that uses “Las Vegas rules” allows players to double down on their initial two cards. Re-splitting is also allowed, as well taking insurance. If you are playing with this type of rules the dealer can hit a soft 17.
The honest answer to this question is that nothing in this life is certain and gambling most definitely is not an exception to this rule. Even though card counting systems may improve your chances of winning, there is still a chance that you might lose your bet. This is why it is advised you set your budget and think about how much you are actually willing to lose before you start counting your winnings.
If you are using the basic blackjack strategy, you should not be thinking of taking insurance. In the case of card counting, however, players know when it is the right moment to make an insurance bet. If you are dealt a blackjack and the face-up card of the dealer is an Ace, you will simply have to take your chances. Refuse to take even money, when receiving payouts of 3:2 is much more beneficial for you.
If you’re looking for a very easy-to-learn blackjack card counting system,
the REKO system might be precisely what you’re searching for. REKO stands for
“Ridiculously Easy Knock Out” or “Ridiculously Easy KO.” At its core, the REKO
system is a simplified version of the popular Knockout/KO System.
On this page, we’ll provide you with all of the details you need to know
about this simple card counting system. As you scroll below, you’ll find
information about how the system works, how you can practice it, and tips on how
to size your bets. We’ve even included guidance on how you can avoid getting
caught when using the system and frequently asked questions.
Because we’ve covered so much information about the REKO card counting system
on this page, we’ve included jump links below. You can use these to skip ahead
to the portions of this page you’re most interested in learning about. However,
if you’d like to get the most out of this page, we’d suggest you read it from
top to bottom, so you don’t miss any critical details.
Counting Cards With the REKO System
How to Size Your Bets
How to Practice the REKO System
Tips to Avoid Getting Caught
Additional Blackjack Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Understanding the Basics of the REKO System
To kick things off, we need to provide you with a basic understanding of the
core bits of the REKO system. Below, we’ll introduce you to these critical
components of the system so you can understand how the system works to help you
count cards when playing blackjack.
Running Count
The central premise of the REKO system is the running count. It’s this
running count that will help you decide how you’ll size your bets when it’s your
turn. In short, the running count is how you track the probability of you
getting blackjack on your next hand. If your count is high, it means you have a
high chance of getting a blackjack. Alternatively, a low count means you’re not
likely to get blackjack.
In the next section, we’ll provide you with a chart that showcases the values
you’ll need to memorize. Each card in the deck has a value you’ll assign to the
card as it comes out. You’ll then continue to add the values up to one another
as you see them. It’s this process that creates your running count. We’ll go
into more detail about how you’ll go about doing this in the following section.
Starting Value
Because the REKO system of blackjack card counting is an unbalanced system,
we have to adjust our starting count. While many other systems have a starting
count of 0, the REKO system has you change your starting count based on the
number of decks being used by the casino. The good news is, since you’re
changing your starting count, you won’t have to deal with the pesky division
associated with converting to a true count as many other systems require. We’ll
discuss more on that later.
In short, the more decks in play, the lower your starting count will be when
using the REKO system. Below, we’ve added in a graphic that showcases the
starting counts tied to different amounts of decks in use.
- 1 deck = Starting count of -1
- 2 decks = Starting count of -5
- 6 decks = Staring count of -20
- 8 decks = Starting count of -27
Once you determine how many decks are being used at the table, you’ll then
make your starting count the value shown above. From there, you’ll continue to
execute the REKO system according to the other steps we’ve included on this
page.
True Count
One of the things we like most about the REKO system is that it doesn’t
require users to convert their running count into a true count. Many other card
counting systems do need this step to help account for the number of decks in
play. The problem with calculating a true count is that it needs division, which
is often difficult for folks to do in their head. Luckily, since the REKO system
accounts for the number of decks in play by adjusting the starting count,
there’s no need to worry about a true count with this system.
Implications
The goal of the REKO card counting system is to help you sort out how much to
bet. When your count is high, the system is telling you that you have a high
chance of getting a blackjack on the next hand. Since getting blackjack has a
higher payout than simply winning a hand, you’ll want to bet more to maximize
your value.
Alternatively, when your count is negative or low, it means you’re less
likely to get a blackjack. In these cases, you’ll want to bet as little as
possible. Often, you’ll stick to just betting the table minimum. To learn more,
check out the section below about how to size your bets.
Counting Cards With the REKO System
Up next, we wanted to build on the principles we covered above to help you
learn how to count cards using the REKO system. You’ll want to study the chart
below and get familiar with it. This chart showcases the card values you’ll need
to know and track to operate the REKO system of card counting.
- Adjust your starting count based on the guidance provided in the
section above - When you see an A, K, Q, J, or 1: Subtract 1 from your
running count - When you see an 8 or 9: Do nothing (worth 0)
- When you see a 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7: Add 1 to your
running count
Don’t forget to adjust your starting count based on the number of decks in
play. The more decks in use, the lower your starting count will be. Check out
the section above if you need a refresher on how to adjust the starting count to
account for the decks in use.
Let’s say you’re playing at a table using just a single deck of cards. In
that case, your starting count is a -1. Then, if the first card out of the deck
is a king, you’ll subtract 1 from your running count, bringing your new total to
-2. If the next card out of the deck is a five, you’d then add 1 back, meaning
your new total is -1. You’ll repeat this process the entire time you’re playing
blackjack.
As a reminder, you don’t need to use a true count with the REKO system.
Instead, your running count is what you’ll use to help you adjust your bets.
We’ll give you some pointers on this in the next section below.
There’s one last tip for you when it comes to the REKO card counting system.
You’ll need to reset your starting count each time the deck is shuffled. Because
a shuffle creates new patterns, you’ll start over with your starting count again
to account for the number of decks in use.
How to Size Your Bets Using the REKO System
Now that you know how to use the REKO system to count cards while playing
blackjack, we wanted to give you tips on how you can size your bets. After all,
the goal of this card counting system and others is to help give you a leg up on
the casino. By following the guidelines below, you can make sure you’re getting
the most out of using the system.
The most straightforward way to size your bets when using the REKO system is
to use your running count as a simple multiplier. Let’s say your current running
count was +3 when it’s your turn to bet. Here, you’d bet 3x the table minimum.
But if your count is negative or +1, you’ll only bet the table minimum.
If you’d like to try another method for sizing your bets, you can create
buckets for your betting strategy.
You might say that if your
running count is +2 or +3, you’ll bet 2x the table minimum. By developing a
buckets strategy, you can use a less aggressive betting plan if the one
described above isn’t appealing to you.
As you play blackjack using the REKO card counting system, you can try out
different ways to size your bets and find the one that works best for you. While
you test out new things, don’t forget the core idea of betting more when your
count is high and vice versa. By following this general guidance, you’ll have
the best chance of walking away from the table with a profit.
How to Practice the REKO System
In this section, we’re going to provide you with practical guidance on how
you can begin practicing the REKO system. Since card counting takes some
practice, you’ll want to invest the time in doing it so you can smoothly
implement it when playing real money blackjack. Just follow the steps below, and
you’ll be ready to count cards with the REKO system in no time at all.
Count a Full Deck of Cards
Your first practice step in card counting is learning how to count a deck of
cards. Simply deal yourself one card at a time. Then, take its value from the
chart above and add it to your running count. Repeat this process for the
remaining 51 cards in the deck.
Time Yourself
Once you’ve run through an entire deck once or twice, try timing yourself. By
doing this, you’ll be able to track your progress. Your goal should be to cut
the time it takes you initially to do it in half. Keep practicing until you feel
like you’re making some good progress in reducing your time counting a deck
using the REKO card counting system.
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Learn to Count in Pairs
Once you are happy with your performance counting a deck one card at a time,
you’ll want to move on to counting cards in pairs. By counting two cards at
once, you’ll end up being able to count cards at a faster pace, so you’re more
efficient when doing it.
To practice, start by dealing two cards to yourself instead of one. Then, add
up the impact of those two cards summed together and add that amount to your
running total. You’ll repeat this process over and over again until you finish
counting all of the cards in the deck. Don’t forget to time yourself, so you can
measure your success as you get faster at computing pairs with the REKO system.
Distract Yourself
Once you feel like you’ve got the hang of counting a deck in pairs, the next
step is to try distracting yourself as you count. Since casinos are very
distracting places with lots of lights, noises, smells, and people, you’ll want
to simulate some distractions to get used to ignoring them as you execute the
REKO system.
To get things rolling, try turning on your radio and turning up the volume.
Then, try executing your counting. You can even time yourself to gauge the
impact of the distractions. If you’d like a more significant challenge, you can
also turn on the television at the same time and then repeat the process. Your
goal should be to reduce the amount of time it takes you to count a deck even
with the distractions.
Use a Friend
Up next, you’ll need to recruit a friend you trust to help you with this next
step of practicing the REKO system. Once you find a friend to help, you’ll have
them closely observe you as you count cards. Ask them to see if they notice
anything odd that you may be doing while you’re counting a deck. Some of the
things they can keep an eye out for are if you’re furrowing your brow or
mouthing words. If your friend notices anything that seems off, have them report
it to you so you can work to stop doing it in the future.
Head to a Casino
For this next round of practice, you’ll want to head to one of your local
casinos. Here, you’ll be watching other folks play blackjack. However, you’ll be
counting as if you are seated at the table yourself. The goal of this round of
practice is to help you practice counting cards in a true casino setting. Just
stand back a couple of feet from the table and begin your counts. Continue
practicing this until you feel like you can keep up with the counts despite the
speed of the dealer and all of the casino distractions going on around you.
Practice at a Low Stakes Table
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After you’ve run through all of our suggested practice steps above, we urge
you to begin playing blackjack for real money at low stakes tables. Since you’ll
be new to counting cards at a real table, it’s vital that you allow yourself the
chance to work out the kinks without it costing you too much. If you were to
dive right into a higher stakes table, things could get costly if you make too
many mistakes. Once you feel like you’ve ironed out all of the kinks in playing
for real money, feel free to graduate yourself up to higher stakes tables
according to your comfort level.
Tips to Avoid Getting Caught
Now that you know how to use and practice the REKO system, we wanted to
provide you with our top ten tips on how you can avoid getting caught. Since
casinos don’t like card counters, you’ll need to work hard to fly under the
radar, so they don’t suspect you of counting cards. Check out our tips below and
keep these in mind when you’re at a casino, so you don’t get caught by the
staff.
- Go easy on the alcohol.
It’s always a smart idea to
limit your alcohol when gambling. However, this is even more true if you’re
looking to use the REKO system to count cards when playing blackjack. Due to
alcohol’s ability to impact your decision-making ability, it can be a
significant issue for card counters. To stay on top of your counts, try
limiting your drinks to just one per hour. - Don’t think too hard.
While card counting requires
thinking as you calculate your running count with the REKO system, it’s
vital you don’t overthink things. The reason for this is because you’re more
likely to show body tells if you’re overdoing Don’t forget to practice with
a friend to have them help you identify potential tells you might be giving
off. - Don’t advise your fellow players.
If you provide tips
to your table mates, it’s likely to tip off the dealer you may be a card
counter. Instead, stay focused on your running count, and keep the tips to
yourself. - Play at different times.
Instead of playing at the same
time of day, try to mix things up. By going this route, you’ll end up
exposing yourself to different casino staff, so it lessens the likelihood
they flag you as a potential card counter. - Use different dealers.
Even if you have some dealers
you love at your local casinos, you’ll want to change things up regularly.
By playing with dealers too often, it may allow them to catch on to your
card counting ways. - Gamble at various casinos.
When possible, be sure to
play blackjack at different casinos as much as you can. Understandably, you
may not have many casinos near your home. For those of you that do, mix
things up by playing at as many as you can. This will allow you to spread
your exposure to different casino employees thus lessening the chance of you
getting caught. - Don’t sit at one table for too long.
At least once an
hour, be sure to change the table you’re playing at. The goal with this move
is to expose you to a different set of casino employees. Be sure to keep
this tip in mind if you’re planning to play for extended periods of time. - Tip your dealers.
Professional card counters are
notorious for not tipping the dealers to help them keep their profit margins
as high as possible. However, it’s a good idea for you to tip from time to
time so you’re not flagged as a potential card counter. Simply tip the
dealer a bit here and there to help you fly under the radar. - Don’t bet too much.
While your running count with the
REKO system might suggest a massive bet from time to time, you’ll want to
keep your bets from getting too big. By betting too much, you’ll catch the
eye of the dealer who might flag you as a card counter. Our advice is never
to bet more than 5x the table minimum. - Are you being watched too much?
While you’re always
being observed in a casino, it’s important to pay attention and see if
you’re being watched more than is usual. If you have the feeling this is
happening, it may be a sign the casino’s staff is on to you as a card
counter. Should you end up in this predicament, consider leaving for the day
and trying again some other time.
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Additional Blackjack Resources
While you’re on this page, we wanted to introduce you to a few other
blackjack related resources we can provide you. Below, you’ll get a small taste
for some of the added value we can bring to your blackjack game. Check these
resources out now to elevate your blackjack knowledge and skills.
Main Blackjack Card Counting Hub
If you’re just beginning your journey with blackjack card counting, it’s
worth checking out the link below. On this page, we’ll give you more insight
into blackjack card counting. In addition, we’ll also introduce you to other
popular card counting variants you might want to consider other than the REKO
system.
Best Online Casinos for Blackjack
If you’re interested in playing blackjack online, then don’t miss the link
below. The link will take you to our page that’s got the best online casinos for
blackjack. We’ll provide you with our list of top picks along with lots of other
helpful information about playing blackjack online.
Blackjack Strategy for Beginners
Counting cards is just one of many different strategies you can use when
playing blackjack. But if you’re new to blackjack as a whole, you’ll want to
learn some other strategies first before trying to count cards. Below, you’ll
find a link to our blackjack strategy guide for beginners where you can get all
of the details you need to know to help take your blackjack game to all new
levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finally, we didn’t want to wrap things up without providing you with some
frequently asked questions about the REKO system. If you’re still looking for
some answers, don’t miss out on the questions below that readers have submitted
to us. You can click on one of the questions if you’d like to see the answer
that’s associated with it.
Is the REKO system legal for me to use?
Yes. Counting cards is not illegal as long as you do it with just your brain. No matter where you live in the world, it’s not illegal to track the cards you’ve seen with your mind. However, if you decide to use any form of device to assist you with your card counting, then what you’re doing might be illegal. On top of that, it’s also cheating. To stay out of potential trouble with the law, stick to counting cards with just your mind.
As a reminder, while counting cards with the REKO system or any other one isn’t illegal, it’s something casinos don’t like. If you’re caught or suspected of counting cards, the casino will most likely ask you to leave. While you won’t get in trouble with the law, you may end up banned from that particular casino.
Is this the card best card counting system for me?
It’s up to you to determine if this is the best card counting system for you to use. If you’re new to the idea of card counting, you’ll want to check out some other methods to get a feel for what you like about each one. You’ll find very simplified systems along with super complicated ones. Your goal should be to locate one that’s easy for you to learn and remember how to use. By using any card counting system, you’ll get a small leg up on the casino when playing blackjack.
Does the REKO System work with online blackjack?
If you’re playing a traditional form of online blackjack, the REKO system won’t be able to assist you. The reason behind this is because most formats of online blackjack automatically reshuffle the deck after each hand. This makes it impossible to track and establish patterns that are needed to run the REKO system and all other card counting systems.
However, there is one form of online blackjack you might be able to utilize the REKO system with. That format is live dealer blackjack. Because you can usually see the dealer, cards, and shuffler, you should be able to use the system to count cards when playing online blackjack.
Does the REKO System make me a guaranteed winner?
No. The REKO system doesn’t mean you’ll always walk away a winner. The same can be said for all other forms of blackjack card counting systems. But if you learn and properly execute the REKO system, you can gain a small advantage over the casino. In turn, you’ll have a reasonable likelihood of making a little bit of profit when playing blackjack for an extended period of time.
Is the REKO System the best card counting system?
The REKO system is one of the easiest card counting methods available. If you’re looking for a very simplistic approach, this might be the best one for you. However, if you’d like a more accurate and advanced system, you might want to check out some of the other options to see how you like them before settling on this one.
Conclusion
We appreciate you stopping by to check out our page about the REKO card
counting system. Hopefully, you’ve found all of the details you were searching
for about the system. For those of you that are new to our website, don’t miss
out on the other helpful gambling guides we have to offer. What you’ve seen here
today is just a scratch on the surface of everything we have developed over the
years. Use the main menu to get a feel for other ways we can help you learn more
knowledge and skills to improve your gambling skills. Thanks for reading, and
good luck with your future use of the REKO system.