Blackjack Guide/Rules & Basics

What is a blackjack (natural 21)?

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A blackjack, also called a natural, is an Ace paired with any 10-value card (10, J, Q, or K) dealt as your first two cards. It totals 21 and beats any other 21 made from more cards. Blackjacks pay 3:2 instead of the normal 1:1.

The natural

Blackjack = Ace + 10/J/Q/K on the initial deal. It cannot be made after hitting.

Payout

  • Standard blackjack: 3:2 (bet $10, win $15)
  • Some tables pay 6:5 — avoid these; they cost you real money.

When both sides have it

Push. You keep your bet, no winner.

Frequency

Roughly one hand in 21 (~4.8%) is a natural.

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