“Terrestrial Special: Code of Casino Behavior”
Basic Blackjack Etiquette
Basic common sense dictates most rules of etiquette, and the same is true for proper etiquette at casino games. Each card game does have a few rules that uniquely suit how it is played, however, and Blackjack is no exception. In fact, manners seem to be particularly important in Blackjack. If you planning to visit a Blackjack table anytime soon, therefore, it would be advisable to brush on your Blackjack etiquette. Basic Blackjack table manners are discussed below:

• Make sure you know the proper hit and stand gestures. For beginners, two hands are usually used to indicate a stand while more advanced players usually indicate with just one hand.

• When the game is over and the dealer is about to collect the cards, it is better not turn the cards over, even if you are trying to be helpful. Dealers usually have a special method of gathering up the cards and turning them over will just slow them down. Also, cameras need to read the cards so dealers are expected to spread them out in a special way.

• Don’t bend, tear, fold, or mangle the cards. Some casinos are very strict about this and will actually throw you out of the casino if you do.

• Once you have placed your bet, don’t touch your chips until the game is over and you have either been paid or have made your payment.

• While an occasional request made to the dealer to switch decks is acceptable, it is frowned upon by other players, and the house when you do so repeatedly. If you feel you are consistently receiving bad cards, simply move to another table.

• Don’t use foul, abusive, obscene or derogatory language. Doing so will only get you an automatic escort off of the casino premises.

• Light conversation with the dealer is acceptable and, at times, even welcome, but avoid discussing personal matters or becoming too familiar.

• Never ask the dealer to tell you what her hole card is. If she tells you she could lose her job and, while it is okay to ask for help from the dealer, she cannot advise you after she has looked at her cards.

• Come to the game with at least a basic understanding and knowledge of Blackjack. It’s okay to use a basic strategy card at the table, in fact it is even recommended for amateurs, but other players will find it annoying if you continuously refer to it for every play.

• It is rare for a dealer to cheat since it would probably get her fired and quite possibly cause problems for the casino she works at as well. It is very tacky behavior, therefore, to accuse the dealer of cheating. If you are not doing well at the table, it’s either because of poor luck or poor skills, but rarely because the dealer is cheating.

• If you sit down at a table, plan on playing a few games before you quit. It is rude to walk up to a dealer and expect him to shuffle a six to eight deck shoe when you are planning on placing only one small bet.