Blackjack Table A blackjack table is usually in the shape of a semi-circle with the dealer on one side and up to 7 players on the other. On the blackjack table is a box known as a shoe that contains multiple decks of cards and from which the dealer deals cards one at a time. In front of each player is a betting circle or square where players place their wagers. Usually a table will have a sign indicating the maximum and minimum wagers allowed at that table. When you sit down at the table you must exchange your cash for chips if you haven’t already done so at the casino cashier. Play begins after all players have placed their bets in their betting area. The seat to the immediate left of the dealer is known as “first base”. The seat to the immediate right is known as “third base”. The third base seat is seen by many as an advantageous position and that player can have a significant affect on the outcome of a round. This player is the last to act and is in a position to see all cards that have been played before him. If this player is employing a card counting strategy, then this is the ideal position to be in. Table Manners During play there are a number of “unwritten” rules that should be followed. When playing in a loud noisy casino, the dealer's eyes will be on the cards almost all the time. Therefore it is custom to use hand signals to indicate your intentions to the dealer. When you want a card you indicate this by making a scratching or brushing motion on the table with your cards or behind your cards with your fingers. The signal for standing (declining any further cards) is a simple “no thanks” wave of your hand above your cards or you can put your cards under your bet. It is customary to tip the dealer. This is called “toking”. Often players will place a bet on the edge of the betting area for the dealer. If you win the hand the dealer receives twice the tip. If you lose the dealer gets nothing. Once you’ve placed your bet don’t touch your chips, the dealer may think you’re trying to add to your bet after receiving favorable cards. If you are doubling down, make sure to place your wager beside your original wager or the dealer may think you are trying to increase your original wager. In a London Deal game where the cards are dealt face up, avoid touching your cards. Casinos fear you may be trying to mark the cards in some way. In a Nevada Deal game where the cards are dealt face down don’t touch the cards more than necessary and always keep them on the table and in plain site. Always keep your eye on the game or you may mistakenly let a large winning ride on the next hand and lose it all. Some casinos don’t allow you to buy chips at tables, so if you stick to exchanging your cash for chips at the cage or cashier you’ll always be ready to play with chips in hand.

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