In live blackjack, the way you communicate at the table is important. In land-based casinos, players often use set hand signals to let the dealer know what action they wish to take. This system ensures there are no misunderstandings during the game, and also helps casinos avoid disputes afterwards.
Are you a novice blackjack player and want to play in a casino like a real pro? These are the most important hand signals you may encounter in blackjack.
Asking for an extra card
Do you want to receive another card? Then you usually make a brief gesture with your hand towards yourself or tap the table next to your cards. This is one of the most commonly used signals at a blackjack table.
In games where the cards are face-up on the table, it is often an unspoken rule that you do not touch the cards with your hands. By tapping the table, you make it clear that you want an extra card without disrupting the game.
Standing on your hand
When you are happy with your total and do not want to receive any more cards, you usually indicate this by waving your hand horizontally above the cards. Dealers recognise this immediately as a signal that you wish to stand.
If you are a beginner, it is better to make the gesture quite obvious and slow. This way, you avoid confusion and make it clear that you do not want any more cards.
Doubling down in blackjack
When doubling down, you double your original bet in exchange for exactly one extra card. To indicate this, you usually place extra chips next to your original bet. Some players also hold up one finger to make their choice extra clear.
Because there is real money on the table, dealers always check these kinds of actions carefully. Clear communication is therefore important whilst playing.
Splitting cards
When you are dealt two cards of the same value, you can choose to split your hand. You usually do this by placing a second bet next to the first and forming a V-shape with two fingers.
Especially at busy blackjack tables, these standard signals ensure that the pace of the game remains high and everyone knows exactly what is happening.
Playing blackjack online and live
Nowadays, you can also play live blackjack online with real dealers. You simply click on buttons on the screen instead of using physical hand signals, but the rules of the game remain the same.
For new players, it can be useful to try blackjack for free in a demo version first. This allows you to get used to the various actions at your own pace and learn when it’s best to stand, hit or double down.
Whether you play at Casino777.be or any other online casino, always remember to bet responsibly. Here at Casino777.be, we regard player well-being as our number one priority – check out our Responsible Gambling tips and tools page for more information.