Basics of Blackjack Etiquette
Blackjack is a casino game where players huddle on a single table and match against the dealer. Therefore, blackjack is a social activity where there is some sort of communication among dealers and players. And because your actions on the blackjack table are likely to affect other players, here are some rules of blackjack etiquette that you must follow.
Blackjack etiquette dictates that you properly communicate any blackjack move that you wish to execute. There are two options to be able to do this - one is hand signal and the other is verbal communication. Verbal communication is self explanatory; blackjack etiquette requires you to speak clearly should you wish to stand or hit or whatever move you want to execute. In terms of hand signals, you are expected to lightly scratch the table with your index finger if you want to hit and to wave your hands with your palms facing downwards if you wish to stand.
Before the dealer distributes the cards to the players, you are first required to place your bets. An important rule of blackjack etiquette is to keep your hands off the chips once the cards are dealt. Touching the chips after the cards are dealt might be construed as an act of cheating. Therefore, you should follow this strict rule of blackjack etiquette to protect yourself from being booted out of the casino.
There is also another blackjack variant which deals the cards face up form the table. During a face up game, players are not allowed to touch their cards. Meanwhile, a face-down game requires that only one hand should touch the cards. Those cards should also be kept on the table only and within the plain view of the dealer and other players.
Lastly, because you interact with other players on the blackjack table, you are required to display proper social skills. Excessive talking is frowned upon players who want to concentrate on the blackjack table. Also, when a waiter comes by to collect orders, make sure that you order your drink quickly and quietly, and in between games. Do not verbally complain about your cards once they are dealt, and never blame or accuse the dealer of anything. Blackjack etiquette requires you to respect its players and dealers because they are also participants in the game.
Blackjack etiquette is strongly recommended for players who wish to respect the game and play it with dignity. Therefore, blackjack etiquette is for the socially-sensitive bunch who wishes to ensure not only their enjoyment but others as well.
