How to Use the Revere Point Count
The Revere Point Count system, developed by player and author Arnold Snyder, is a sophisticated card counting system designed to improve the accuracy of card counting in blackjack. It assigns point values to cards to help players make better betting and playing decisions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the Revere Point Count system effectively:
How to Use the Revere Point Count
1. Understand the Card Values
In the Revere Point Count system, cards are assigned specific values to track the composition of the deck:
- 2, 3, 4, 5, 6: +1
- 10, J, Q, K: -1
- 7, 8, 9: 0
- Ace: +1
These values help determine the relative proportion of high to low cards remaining in the deck.
2. Keep a Running Count
Why It Matters: The running count reflects the relative number of high cards to low cards that have been dealt. Maintaining an accurate running count is essential for making strategic decisions.
How to Do It:
- Start Fresh: Begin the count at zero when the deck or shoe is shuffled.
- Update Count: As each card is dealt, adjust the running count based on the assigned values:
- Cards 2, 3, 4, 5, 6: Add +1 to the running count.
- Cards 10, J, Q, K: Subtract -1 from the running count.
- Cards 7, 8, 9: No change (0).
- Ace: Add +1 to the running count.
Example: If the cards dealt are 2, 10, 5, and Ace, the running count would be +1 (2) -1 (10) +1 (5) +1 (Ace) = +2.
3. Convert to True Count
Why It Matters: The true count provides a more accurate measure of the deck’s favorability, especially in multi-deck games. It adjusts the running count to account for the number of decks remaining.
How to Do It:
- Estimate Decks Remaining: Count or estimate the number of decks left in the shoe.
- Calculate True Count: Divide the running count by the number of decks remaining.
Example: If your running count is +8 and there are 4 decks remaining, the true count would be +2 (8 divided by 4).
4. Adjust Your Bets
Why It Matters: Your betting strategy should align with the true count to capitalize on favorable conditions.
How to Do It:
- High True Count: Increase your bets. A higher true count indicates a higher proportion of high cards remaining, which is advantageous for the player.
- Low or Negative True Count: Bet the minimum or reduce your bets. A low or negative true count suggests the deck is less favorable.
Example: With a true count of +3, you might increase your bet size to 3 units. With a true count of -1, you might bet the minimum.
5. Make Strategic Decisions
The true count also influences your strategic decisions, such as hitting, standing, doubling down, and splitting:
- Higher True Count: Be more aggressive with plays. For example, you might double down more frequently or split pairs in situations where the count is high.
- Lower True Count: Play more conservatively. Avoid high-risk moves when the count is low.
Example: With a high true count, you might stand on a total of 16 against a dealer’s 10, as the likelihood of the dealer busting is higher.
6. Track the Deck Composition
Why It Matters: Understanding the deck composition helps in making more informed decisions and adjusting your strategy as the deck progresses.
How to Do It:
- Monitor the Running Count: Keep track of how the running count changes as cards are dealt.
- Adjust Strategy: Based on the deck composition, adjust your betting and playing strategy accordingly.
7. Practice Regularly
Why It Matters: Mastering the Revere Point Count system requires practice to ensure accurate counting and effective strategy implementation.
How to Do It:
- Use Simulators: Practice with blackjack simulators or online tools designed for card counting.
- Play Often: Gain practical experience by playing blackjack in various settings and conditions.
8. Understand Casino Rules
Why It Matters: Different casinos may have different rules that can impact your strategy and the effectiveness of the Revere Point Count system.
How to Do It:
- Learn the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the blackjack game you’re playing, such as the number of decks used and the dealer’s actions.
Conclusion
The Revere Point Count system offers a structured approach to card counting, helping players make informed betting and playing decisions based on the composition of the deck. By maintaining an accurate running count, converting to a true count, and adjusting your strategy accordingly, you can enhance your blackjack play and increase your chances of winning. With regular practice and a solid understanding of the game’s dynamics, the Revere Point Count system can be a valuable tool in your blackjack strategy.
