i just lost 200 playing at Harrah's $10 tables. as a poor college student, that is significant money. the annoying thing is that i played perfect basic strategy, and i mean perfect. i looked up the exact basic strategy chart needed for an 8 deck, S17, DA2, DAS, No surrender game, and even quizzed myself using flash cards. i realize this still leaves the house with an approximate .47% edge.
none the less i played and lost. however i am not angry... on the contrary i'm hungry... for the egde.
i just recently read Fred Renzey's book "Blackjack Bluebook II" and found it well-written and thorough. i am currently attempting to master the Stage II Kiss Count explained in the book. (black 2's (+1), 3-6 (+1), 10-K (+1). since i began practicing the count several DAYS AGO, i was obviously unprepared to use it in the casino, so i just stuck to basic strategy. however, this brings me to my questions:
1. Is the Kiss Count a good level one count, or should i use a different count, or perhaps a balanced count?
2. After i have chosen a good entry level count to practice, what are the practice techniques i should use to master it? Are there other techniques besides simply counting down a single deck in under 30 seconds?
3. as a comparatively poor college kid, i have a limited bankroll. i understand bad swings happen, which leaves me vulnerable. how do i account for this?
I simply refuse to go back to a casino as a favorite to lose in the long run - that is for suckers. i want an edge.
i welcome all comments, suggestions, and criticisms, as well as suggestions for additional readings. please help me.
-losing in new orleans
