Few playing techniques for blackjack have been romanticised quite like blackjack. Card counting is always portrayed as something that only the most experienced and sneaky players can pull off. However, this is far from the case, with some card counting techniques being much easier to learn than others. Step forward, Red Seven. Red Seven is a popular technique that helps players keep a running total of the value of a deck. In this Red Seven Blackjack guide, we break down how to use the technique and whether or not it is worth learning.
What is Red Seven?
So what exactly is the Red Seven method? It’s a single-card counting system that was originally designed by Arnold Synder, a famous blackjack expert. It was designed to keep the card counting process simple. Unlike other systems, the Red Seven system requires players to add or subtract just one digit at a time.
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How does Red Seven work?
Red Seven is a simple system where players either add or subtract one from a running total. If the total is positive, that is good for the player; if it is negative, then it is benefiting the dealer. The points work like this:
- +1 Cards: Any card below seven is good for the player and should see them add one to their total.
- Neutral cards: Black sevens, eight, and nine are seen as neutral and do not add any number to the total.
- -1 Cards: Any card over nine is negative for the player, and you remove one from your running total.
- Red Sevens: The reason the strategy is known as Red Sevens is that any red sevens that come from the deck count as a +1.
How to use Red Seven
Like any card counting system, it is important that players practise using Red Seven. Card counting is a complex skill, and while this is one of the simpler methods, it still requires some practice.
We recommend practising using Red Seven at home. The total at the end of a deck should be +2. You should always start your running count at zero.
If you have a positive running count, it means there is a higher value of high-value cards in the deck, which benefits the player. If you have a negative one, it means there are more lower cards in the deck, which favours the dealer.
You should then adjust your bets accordingly. If the deck count is positive, you should consider placing higher bets. Whereas if it is lower, you should take a more conservative gameplay approach.
Is Card Counting legal?
Is Card Counting legal
Yes. Red Seven and other card counting techniques are not illegal. Of course, given the nature of online play, it is nearly impossible to use Red Seven or any other card counting technique to gain an advantage.
It is worth noting that casinos may try to identify people who are using card counting techniques to their advantage. Of course, this is extremely difficult to prove, as card counting is done using a running total in your head. Casinos may see it as a threat if a player continues to win, and they may remove you from the table.
Conclusion: Is Red Seven Useful When Playing Blackjack?
One of the biggest reasons for Red Seven’s popularity with players is that it is easy to understand and use compared to other card counting techniques. Of course, like all card counting techniques, it is essentially useless when being used online. If you are going to use it in a casino, we recommend practising the technique at home.
Players should be aware that Red Seven, as well as other card counting techniques, never guarantee a win at blackjack. There is no way to remove the house’s advantage altogether. As such, you should always ensure you are practising responsible gambling techniques and never relying on blackjack, or any other card game, as a form of income.
