In blackjack, communication is key – not just with your words, but also through your actions. Blackjack beginners may feel intimidated by these hand signals because they don’t know what they are but they seem to come so naturally to other players. But you can quickly learn these blackjack hand signals, so that you can participate in this universal way to communicate your decisions at the table, ensuring that both the dealer and surveillance cameras can see your choices clearly.
Importance of Blackjack Hand Signals
Hand signals are crucial in blackjack because they provide a clear and standardized way for players to communicate their choices to the dealer. In crowded casinos, verbal instructions can be missed or misheard, but blackjack hand signals are unmistakable. Moreover, these signals are recorded by the casino’s surveillance cameras, ensuring transparency and protecting both the player and the casino in case of disputes.
Mastering the Blackjack Hand Signals
By learning and practicing the basic hand signals, you’ll be able to confidently play at any blackjack table. Here’s a breakdown of the most important signals you’ll need to know.
Hit
When you want to draw another card, the hand signal for “hit” depends on whether you’re playing a face-up or face-down game:
- Face-Up Cards: Tap the table with your finger or lightly brush the table with your hand.
- Face-Down Cards: Scrape the corner of your cards on the felt to signal you want another card.
Stand
If you’re happy with your hand and don’t want to take any more cards, you can signal to stand:
- Face-Up Cards: Wave your hand horizontally over your cards, palm down, as if you’re brushing them off.
- Face-Down Cards: Tuck your cards gently under your bet without any additional gestures.
Double Down
If you believe you have a strong chance to win with one additional card, you can double your original bet. To signal a double down, place an additional bet next to your original wager and, with one finger, point to the table. This clearly indicates to the dealer that you want one more card and to double your bet.
Split
When dealt two cards of the same rank, you have the option to split them into two separate hands. To signal a split, place an additional bet equal to your original wager beside it, and then hold up two fingers in a “peace” sign to show the dealer that you want to split your cards into two hands.
Surrender
If you think your hand has little chance of winning, some blackjack games offer the option to surrender and forfeit half your bet. To surrender, draw an imaginary line behind your bet with your finger, signaling that you wish to surrender.
Bust
While busting (going over 21) isn’t an action you signal for, it’s important to understand how the dealer signals it. When your hand busts, the dealer will usually swipe your cards and collect your bet.
Insurance
If the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, players can opt for insurance, which protects against the dealer having blackjack. To signal that you want insurance, place an insurance bet (half of your original wager) on the insurance line above your cards. No specific blackjack hand signal is required for insurance, as the bet itself indicates your choice.
Play Blackjack at Blue Lake Casino
Head over to Blue Lake Casino for an exciting and welcoming blackjack environment where you can practice your blackjack hand signals and enjoy the thrill of a live gaming experience. Blue Lake offers a range of tables for every skill level. Enjoy a well-regulated environment with professional dealers, and put your new knowledge of hand signals to use in this classic casino game. Test your blackjack strategy, communicate confidently, and see if you can beat the dealer at Blue Lake Casino!
