Hit is a fundamental action in the game of blackjack, referring to a player’s request for an additional card from the dealer. This action is taken when a player seeks to improve their hand’s total value with the goal of getting closer to 21 without going over.
- Basic Usage: In a game of blackjack, when a player chooses to “hit,” they are asking the dealer to give them another card. The player can continue to hit and receive additional cards as many times as they wish, as long as the total value of their hand does not exceed 21.
- Strategic Considerations: Deciding whether to hit is a key strategic decision in blackjack. Players must consider their current hand total, the dealer’s visible card, and the composition of the deck. For example, if a player’s hand totals 11 or less, hitting is considered safe since there is no risk of busting (exceeding 21).
- Risk of Busting: The primary risk associated with hitting is the possibility of the hand’s total value going over 21, known as busting. If a player busts, they lose the hand immediately, regardless of the dealer’s subsequent actions.
- Signal for Hit: In land-based casinos, players typically indicate the desire to hit through hand signals, such as tapping the table, to ensure clear communication and security. In online blackjack, players simply click a button to hit.
- Soft Hands: The decision to hit is often influenced by whether the hand is “soft” or “hard.” A soft hand includes an Ace valued as 11 (e.g., Ace-6), giving the player more flexibility since the Ace can change to a value of 1 to avoid busting.
- Dealer’s Play: In most blackjack variants, the dealer must hit on hands totaling 16 or less and stand on 17 or more. These rules vary slightly depending on the casino and specific game rules.
- Balancing Risk and Reward: Successful blackjack play involves balancing the risk of busting against the potential reward of getting closer to 21 or achieving a high-value hand. Players develop strategies for when to hit based on statistical probabilities and the game’s dynamics.
