In a tournament are most of the pros using known counting methods,luck, basic strategy, what? Obviously counting is frowned upon however to be a successful pro I would imagine most of them count. Just trying to gauge what level I will need to be at to be competitive. Beej-
counting If you're not already a counter it's probably not worth learning just for tournaments. It's more important to concentrate on counting chips and betting. Good Luck. tgun
Card counting is worth little in tournaments. Start here for some ideas of the kinds of strategies that can give you an advantage: http://www.blackjacktournaments.com/strategy.php
start counting If you are not a counter start being a counter. Not knowing is a disadvantage and don't let anyone tell you different. It helps you to know when to hit or sit, bet bigger, double down or not. Learn to count or get out. There is more than blind luck involved.
Counting In Tournaments If you plan to play "open" BJ and win, then you must count (accurately). It's that simple! Having said that, why wouldn't you count in tourneys, too? It's a/an HABIT. While I agree with others here that have said it's value is very limited in tourneys, we now see serious penetration because of no live money events. Every once in a while you'll see a great count show up and at that point the advantage should be used. Now, if your talking last hand or two, forget the count by all means. Billy C
