Pair of 4s vs Dealer 5
Basic strategy says split. Here's what the math looks like across common rule sets.
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Why Split Is Correct
Two 4s sum to hard 8, which you'd normally hit. Splitting against the weak dealer 5 turns each 4 into a starting hand that can double on the next card if it lands 5–7 — a bigger EV win than hitting the combined 8.
How the Play Changes Under Different Rules
The correct play is consistent across every common rule set for this hand.
| Rule Set | Best Play |
|---|---|
| 6-deck · H17 · no surrender | Split |