Hi, I'm just curious as to what you all think is the best single deck counting strategy out there... Many websites have various suggestions, but I trust Wong, as I've used the plus-minus for some time. Thanks for the help!
J.P.
Hi-Opt II has been cited by some as one of the best for single deck, as has AOII. There are certainly multi-level, multi-parameter systems that will perform better than Hi-Lo or other level one systems, provided you can use them efficiently.
Hi-Lo will get the money.
Bootlegger, thanks for the response. I don't really mind complex, and I'll likely stick with the Hi-Lo count based on your response, but would it be worth learning Wong Halves for a slightly better advangtage in single deck? Likewise, at what plus count or minus count for that matter does it pay to sway from basic strategy? or.. would you recommend any websites for certain instances in swaying from basic strategy?
Thanks again,
J.P.
Don Schlesinger's Illustrious 18 is a good place to start if you want to incorporate count based strategy variations. If you Google it, you can probably find it on the Web. It is also in Schlesinger's book, Blackjack Attack, which I would highly recommend. For more strategy variations, look at Wong's Professional Blackjack, which is also a must read for Hi-Lo players. If you are relatively new to the game, you may want to give my book a try as well. It is Bootlegger's 200 Proof Blackjack.
Strategy variations are an important part of the counting game, and add to your bottom line. While this is true with any number of decks, it is especially true in single deck games. The Illustrious 18 captures about 80% of the gain that can be had from strategy variations, and I believe every counter should know at least those key plays.
If you can play with extreme accuracy, the more complex the system, and the more indices you employ, the better your results will be. Varrying or swaying from basic strategy should be used no matter how small the count, unless you are using "risk averse strategies".
A good single deck game played with more complexity can also allow you to reduce your spread, still get the money, and maybe increase longgevity.
Frenchman
