Blackjack and the five-card rule

For those who aren’t huge blackjack fans, and who have perhaps yet to play, it may appear that all games of blackjack are the same. While there is no denying that each game follows the same basics, those who love the game know that there are a huge range of variants to choose from and that each of these adds something a little special to the game. Read more about the Blackjack five-card rule.

Even the biggest fans of the game may not have had the pleasure of coming across the five-card rule. Also known as a 5-card Charlie, this is a rule that brings great benefits to a player, but is extremely hard to find. 

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Blackjack five-card rule

5-card Charlie – One of the rarest finds at a casino

One of the things that make blackjack quite so popular is that, on the surface, it appears to be an extremely simple game. Well, the truth be told, it is, but when you start to dig a little deeper you soon realise that there are a multitude of different blackjack rules that can come into play and that these can change the game entirely. Now, one of these rules is the 5 card one. It offers some pretty decent winning potential, but the problem is that it’s just not easy to find.

In truth though, this rule is well worth seeking out. You’re unlikely to take a seat at your usual casino and find that it’s being offered so make sure that you take the time and hunt out the casinos near you that have this on offer. 

Blackjack five-card rule – Weighing up the blackjack rule variations 

Okay, you’re itching to know what the 5-card rule actually is and how you can benefit from it, but first, it’s worth taking a moment to consider what makes a rule variation attractive. Can a rule be classed as inherently ‘good’ or ‘bad’ or does it depend upon the circumstances in which it is being used?

In our view, the best way to judge a rule variation is to look at how it affects the house edge. Quite simply, a rule that is ‘good’ for players will lead to the house edge being reduced. Conversely, a ‘bad’ rule will lead to the house edge moving up and reducing your chances of a win. 

Why it’s only like for like comparisons that matter 

If you want to look at the benefits that are brought about by the 5-card rule, it’s vital that you’re only comparing it to a game that is the same. The version of blackjack that you’re comparing to obviously won’t have the 5-card rule, but aside from that, to draw a meaningful comparison, the other rules need to be identical. 

Generally speaking, if you manage to find a casino that offers the 5-card rule you’ll find a 1.46% higher return on games. However, as soon as you start to tinker with any of the other rules that apply, you’ll see that this return starts to change.

It’s worth the time taken to hunt

As you’ve probably realised by now, the 5-card rule in blackjack is extremely favourable to you, the player. The thing is, casinos aren’t that struck with the idea of helping you to win so even if you manage to find one that offers this rule, you may find that you need to compromise on some of the others that exist.

One obvious example can be seen when looking at the payout for a natural blackjack. While we all get a little vocal when this changes from 3:2 to 6:5, the latter may well be an acceptable trade-off if the 5-card rule comes into play.

So, what is this Blackjack Five-card rule?

The blackjack 5-card rule means that a player will automatically win a hand when they reach a certain number of cards in their hand. Of course, that’s assuming that the player doesn’t go bust in the process of accumulating these cards. Something worth noting here is that rule makes no mention of how many cards the dealer may be holding: as long as you reach the specified number then you win.

Now of course, as you’d expect, with the 5-card rule the magic number is 5. However, you’ll also come across games of blackjack where there’s a 6-card Charlie and even a 7-card Charlie. Hitting the 7 cards is certainly tough, but 5 is perfectly achievable. 

Blackjack five-card rule – A change of strategy 

If you do find a table that offers the blackjack 5-card rule, you’re going to have to review the strategy that you use. Let’s say that you’re holding a 2 and an Ace. As you probably know, blackjack strategy will tell that you should always hit. Now, let’s say you end up with another 2. You’re now up to 3 cards that total either 15 or 5. Hit again and land a 3 and you’re now at 5 or 18 and blackjack strategy will tell you to stand on 18.

When playing the 5-card rule, this strategy goes out of the window. The correct course of action is to take another card, bringing you up to 5. There’s no way that you’re going to go bust and landing that 5th card will seal in some winnings for you. 

Spread your focus

Now, there’s no getting away from the fact that the 5-card rule is pretty neat, however, it’s important not to get too hung up on it. If you come across a game of blackjack that offers is by all means give it a go, but don’t ignore some of the other variants that are out there. 

When you’re choosing which table to take a seat at, be sure to check the payout for a natural blackjack and never ignore the surrender rules that are on offer. The 5-card rule is just another tool in your kit and one that’s worth being aware of should you ever find yourself at a casino or online casino that offers it. 

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5 Card Blackjack