Hard totals
Should I hit 16 against a 7?
Yes. Hit hard 16 when the dealer shows a 7.
These answers are for a 6 deck game where the dealer stands on soft 17, blackjack pays 3 to 2, and you can double on any two cards, including after a split.
Why
A dealer showing a 7 most often finishes on 17, and 17 beats 16. Standing hopes for a bust that usually does not come.
Taking a card risks a bust, but every 5 or lower improves you, and over time hitting does better.
The play against every dealer card
| Dealer shows | Your play |
|---|---|
| 2 to 6 | Stand |
| 7 to Ace | Hit |
Questions players ask
- Should I hit 16 against a 7?
- Yes. Hit hard 16 when the dealer shows a 7.
- When should I stand on 16?
- Stand on hard 16 when the dealer shows 2 to 6.
Related answers
- Should I stand on 16 against 2 to 6?
- Should I hit 16 against 7 to Ace?
- Should I hit 16 against a 10?
- Should I stand on 15 against 2 to 6?
- Should I hit or stand on 12 to 16?
- Blackjack basic strategy chart
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