KO Blackjack strategy

In the Knockout Card Counting (KO Count) system, as explained in the book Knock Out Blackjack, all card values are the same as in the Hi Low system, except for the value of the 7. In this system the seven is considered a low card and thus a plus value unlike the Hi Low system where it is a neutral card. Another variance between the two strategies is that the KO Count System is not a balanced strategy whereas the Hi Low Count, and Hi Opt strategies are.

The fact that it is unbalanced makes KO Count a Level one Strategy, what that means is, if you begin at zero and count down the entire deck using the Knock-Out Card Counting Strategy you are not going to finish on zero. In the Hi Low method, the seven is neutral, however it is a plus one in the Knock out blackjack counting method, so it ads four more points the deck, if you’ve counted the cards correctly with this system you’ll finish on a positive four.

To use the Knock Out card counting system you will want to keep a running total throughout the game. So if you start at zero, and a low card is played you’ll add one. Now your total is 1. If the next card comes low, add another point, when a high card is dealt you can subtract one. When a new hand is started the count continues, it does not refresh until a new shoe is shuffled. A count that is high either direction indicates that the deck is heavy on the high or low side. A high positive count indicates smaller cards left in deck and subsequently it is the opposite with a high negative count.

Where to begin the KO Count

A formula called “Initial Running Count” or IRC is used to determine what number the count will start on. If you’re only playing with one deck of cards, the count will begin at zero, however when using the KO System the count does not automatically start at zero, you’ll want to refer back to the specific IRC for your situation.

As with any blackjack card counting system you will want to practice the system at home with a deck of cards over and over again until you have it perfected. To cross check yourself, remember that after you’ve counted down the entire deck you’ll end up with a positive 4. You need to be able to keep a running count of the cards, without moving your lips, pausing or making any expensive mathematical mistakes.

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