1-3-2-6 Blackjack Strategy

What is the 1-3-2-6 Strategy in Blackjack?

1-3-2-6 Blackjack is a term that describes a betting strategy used to play the popular casino table game Blackjack, where the numbers refer to units of stake. It is inspired by the Paroli system, which operates on the understanding that it is fairly common to win four hands in a row, but it becomes increasingly less likely to win five or more hands in a row. However, how the two systems use that information is completely different. Blackjack’s 1-3-2-6 strategy looks to make the most out of the player being at an advantage, whereas Paroli concentrates on small regular wins.

How to Play 1-3-2-6 Blackjack?

The first step in attempting a 1-3-2-6 system at Blackjack is to determine how much one unit of stake is worth. Consider your bankroll, and bear in mind that the fourth bet involves staking six times this amount. For this example, we are going to use one unit = £10.

When it is time for the first bet, players should wager £10. If the first hand is successful, play another with a stake of three times the first stake. In this case, £30. If you lose the first bet, start again as if the next hand is the first.

If players win the second hand, with a stake of £30, they should be up £40 and ready for the third bet. So at this point in the 1-3-2-6 Blackjack system, instead of assuming that winning four hands in a row is as simple as the Paroli method suggests, 1-3-2-6 prepares to take a hit on the third hand. Do this by lowering the bet to two units or £20 in this example.

Losing the third bet is a hit that this strategy prepares to take by dropping the level of the third bet. This preparation results in players taking two units of profit and starting again on the next hand. Winning the third bet indicates that you are on a roll and ready to put all of your current profit on the table. This should be six units, i.e. £60, which would see a return of £120. This would mean making a profit of £110 in four hands of Blackjack.

Pros and Cons

Of course, like all betting systems, the 1-3-2-6 strategy is not watertight. Take a look at the pros and cons of using this method:

Remember, as with all betting systems, it does not alter the playing ground or remove the house edge, so in the long term, you are guaranteed to make some loss.

Is it Possible to Play 1-3-2-6 Blackjack in Online Casinos?

Yes, using the 1-3-2-6 Blackjack betting strategy at online casinos is possible. As this is only a betting system, apply it anywhere you can play Blackjack. You can use this system with an online Blackjack game found in the games library of any online casino worth its salt. You can even apply it while playing live dealer Blackjack games. You can practice using Blackjack simulators available!

You can also access the complete list of the best casinos to play Blackjack.

Is the 1-3-2-6 System Allowed/Legal in Casinos?

The 1-3-2-6 blackjack betting system is permitted for use at brick-and-mortar and online casinos. It is not illegal and is not banned anywhere. As a general rule, casinos allow players to use any betting system while playing their games. This is because they do nothing to reduce the house edge, and casinos still stand to benefit in the long run. Be more concerned with how it will affect your bankroll rather than whether or not it is legal.

Conclusion

1-3-2-6 is a progressive betting system that looks to maximise profits during hot streaks and minimise losses during tougher sessions. It is nice and easy to understand and can be used in short bursts of gambling. We have looked at it in the context of blackjack, but this strategy can be used on any game containing bets with even odds. Remember, you are likely to have net losses in the long term, but this system can work out in moderation.

Head to one of our featured casinos to try it out now!