Splitting pairs
Should I split 9s against a 7?
No. Stand on two 9s 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 with a 7 showing most often finishes on 17. Your 18 already beats that, so there is no reason to break it up.
Against an 8 or a 9 it is different: there your 18 is in more danger, and two hands from 9 do better, so you split.
The play against every dealer card
| Dealer shows | Your play |
|---|---|
| 2 to 6, 8 or 9 | Split |
| 7, 10 or Ace | Stand |
Questions players ask
- Should I split 9s against a 7?
- No. Stand on 18.
- Should I split 9s against an 8 or a 9?
- Yes. Split them against an 8 and against a 9.
Related answers
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