Split in Blackjack
A split in blackjack is when you divide a pair into two separate hands, each with its own bet. It's one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal—when used correctly, splitting can turn a losing hand into two winning ones.
What Does It Mean to Split?
When you're dealt two cards of the same value (like two 8s or two Aces), you have the option to split them. You place a second bet equal to your original wager, and the dealer separates your cards into two independent hands. Each hand receives a new second card, and you play them one at a time.
A pair of 8s gives you 16—statistically the worst hand in blackjack. But split them, and you have two chances to build hands starting from 8, which is much more favorable.
The Hand Signal for Splitting
To signal a split: Place a second stack of chips next to (not on top of) your original bet, then hold up two fingers in a "peace sign" or "V" shape. This tells the dealer you want to split your pair.
Never touch your cards in a shoe game. The chip placement and hand signal are all you need.
The Golden Rules of Splitting
Always Split: Aces and 8s
This is the most important splitting rule in blackjack. Always split Aces and 8s, regardless of what the dealer shows.
Why split Aces? A pair of Aces is only worth 12 (one Ace must count as 1). But split them, and each Ace can become the foundation of a potential blackjack or strong hand.
Why split 8s? A pair of 8s equals 16—the worst possible hand. You'll lose with 16 more often than any other total. Split them into two hands starting at 8, and you have much better chances.
Never Split: 10s and 5s
Never split 10s. A pair of 10s gives you 20—one of the best hands in blackjack. Don't break up a winner.
Never split 5s. A pair of 5s equals 10—a great doubling hand. Two hands starting from 5 are much weaker than one hand where you can double on 10.
Other Pair Decisions
| Pair | Decision |
|---|---|
| 2s, 3s | Split against dealer 2-7 |
| 4s | Split only against dealer 5-6 (otherwise hit) |
| 6s | Split against dealer 2-6 |
| 7s | Split against dealer 2-7 |
| 9s | Split against dealer 2-6, 8-9 (stand against 7, 10, A) |
Common Splitting Mistakes
Mistake #1: Splitting 10s Because "Two Hands Are Better"
Greed kills. When you split 10s, you're trading a near-certain win for two uncertain outcomes. The math is clear: keep your 20.
Mistake #2: Not Splitting 8s Against a Strong Dealer Card
Players see a dealer 10 and think "I'll lose both hands if I split." But 16 loses even more often. Against a dealer 10:
- Standing on 16 loses about 77% of the time
- Splitting 8s loses less money overall
You're not trying to win—you're trying to lose less. Split those 8s.
Mistake #3: Always Splitting 9s
Nines are tricky. Against dealer 7, you should stand (not split) because your 18 beats the dealer's likely 17. Against dealer 10 or Ace, also stand—splitting just doubles your likely losses.
Mistake #4: Splitting 4s
A pair of 4s equals 8—not a terrible starting point. Splitting gives you two hands starting from 4, which is worse. Only split 4s against dealer 5 or 6, where the dealer is most likely to bust.
Re-splitting and Special Rules
Some casinos allow re-splitting—if you split a pair and receive another card of the same value, you can split again. This is favorable when allowed.
Double After Split (DAS): Many casinos let you double down after splitting. This is a player-favorable rule. If you split 8s and receive a 3 (giving you 11), you can double for maximum value.
Splitting Aces: Most casinos only give you one card per Ace when you split them. You can't hit for more cards. This is standard, and splitting Aces is still correct.
Practice Your Splits
Splitting decisions trip up many players. Practice with our free trainer until pair decisions become automatic.